Fields of study: Peace and Conflict Resolution, International Relations, Global Studies, International Development, Public Administration
The Rotary Peace Fellowship is a premier fully funded program designed to develop the capacity of peace and development professionals to become effective catalysts for global change. Each year, The Rotary Foundation awards up to 50 fellowships for master's degrees and up to 120 for professional development certificate studies at elite partner universities worldwide (Rotary Peace Centers). The fellowship provides comprehensive financial support, allowing fellows to focus entirely on their rigorous academic training, practical field experience, and global networking, ultimately empowering them to make a lasting, sustainable impact in their home communities and beyond.
Benefits
100% full coverage of all university tuition and mandatory fees
Comprehensive room and board allowance (accommodation and meals)
Round-trip international transportation expenses to and from the study location
Full funding for all approved internship and field-study expenses
Exclusive access to a lifelong global network of peace workers, academics, and Rotary members
Eligibility
Must be highly proficient in English
Must hold a recognized bachelor's degree
Must possess at least three years of full-time relevant experience in peace or development work for the Master's program (five years required for the certificate program)
Must have a gap of at least three years between the completion of the most recent academic degree program and the intended start date of the fellowship
Active Rotary members, employees of a Rotary club or Rotary International, and their immediate family members are strictly ineligible to apply
Requirements
Exceptional academic record and compatibility with the preferred university program
Strong commitment to cross-cultural understanding and peace demonstrated through professional and academic achievements
Proven record of professional leadership potential
Submission of a targeted social impact plan (required for certificate applicants only)
Mandatory interview and endorsement by a trained Rotary district representative
Required Documents
Professional resume or curriculum vitae
Academic and/or professional recommendations
Personal statement video and written essays
Official transcripts from all post-secondary colleges and universities attended (for Master's applicants)
Valid English language proficiency test scores such as IELTS or TOEFL (for Master's applicants)
Social impact plan detailing a community initiative (for Certificate applicants)
Programs of Study
Master's Degree Programs (15 to 24 months)
Professional Development Certificate Program (1 year)
Application Process
Thoroughly research the curriculum at each of the Rotary Peace Centers and rank your top two preferred institutions in the application portal
Use the online 'Club Finder' to locate the nearest Rotary club to seek mentorship and establish a relationship early in the process
Gather all required documents, including your transcripts, valid test scores, and recommendation letters
Complete and submit the online application via the official Rotary Foundation portal before the May 15 deadline
If deemed qualified, your application will be assigned to a Rotary endorser who will contact you for a mandatory interview in June
How to Apply
Do not use Generative AI to write your personal essays, as the selection committee strictly prohibits AI content and plagiarism will immediately disqualify your application
Be highly specific in your written statements regarding your past hands-on commitment to peacebuilding and your actionable future career goals
Contact a local Rotary District Peace Fellowship Subcommittee Chair early in the process, as their guidance and endorsement are critical to passing the first stage
Selection Process
Initial rigorous review of all submitted applications to ensure absolute compliance with qualification and eligibility criteria
Mandatory interview and endorsement decision submitted by a trained Rotary district endorser by July 1
World-level competition and final selection conducted by the Rotary Peace Centers committee, evaluating academic record, leadership potential, and fit with Rotary's objectives
Final email notifications containing the study institution assignments are sent to the chosen fellows in November