Rotary Peace Fellowship Program: Fully Funded Masters & Professional Certificate for Global Peacebuilders

The Rotary Peace Fellowship Program is one of the world’s most prestigious and fully funded international scholarships for individuals committed to peacebuilding, diplomacy, conflict resolution, and global development. Since its inception, the Rotary Foundation has trained over 1,500 Peace Fellows, many of whom now work in NGOs, governments, humanitarian organizations, international agencies, military structures, universities, and global think tanks.

This competitive fellowship supports emerging and established leaders who demonstrate a proven commitment to peace, strong leadership potential, and a desire to create positive change in their communities and worldwide.

Rotary offers two fully funded opportunities each year:

• Master’s Degree (15–24 months) at top-ranked universities

• Professional Development Certificate Program (1 year) for mid-career professionals

Both tracks include academic training, applied fieldwork, hands-on peacebuilding experience, leadership development, and advanced global networking opportunities.

Rotary Peace Centers – Where You Can Study

Rotary Peace Fellows train at world-class universities known for excellence in peace and conflict studies.

Master’s Degree Peace Centers

• The University of Queensland (UQ), Australia

• University of Bradford, England

• International Christian University (ICU), Japan

• Uppsala University, Sweden

• Duke University & The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), USA

Professional Certificate Peace Centers

• Chulalongkorn University, Thailand

• Makerere University, Uganda

These Peace Centers offer multidisciplinary training from global experts and provide access to influential peacebuilding networks worldwide.

What the Rotary Peace Fellowship Covers (Fully Funded)

Successful applicants receive a 100% fully funded scholarship, including:

• ✔ Full tuition and mandatory university fees

• ✔ Room and board (accommodation + meals)

• ✔ Round-trip airfare

• ✔ All internship and applied fieldwork expenses

• ✔ Research and field-study support

• ✔ Healthcare coverage

• ✔ Access to global workshops, professional seminars, and networking events

This is one of the most comprehensive, fully funded international fellowships available today.

Eligibility Criteria for the Rotary Peace Fellowship

To qualify for the Rotary Peace Fellowship, applicants must:

For the Master’s Degree Program

• Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)

• Have a minimum of three years of full-time relevant work experience

• Demonstrate leadership potential and a strong commitment to peace and development

• Have a proven record of community engagement or humanitarian service

• Be proficient in English

• Not be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program

• Have no affiliation with Rotary as an active member or employee

For the Professional Development Certificate Program

• Meet all Master’s requirements, plus:

• Have at least five years of relevant work experience

• Provide a clear Social Impact Plan demonstrating how they will use skills gained

• Not have participated in a Rotary certificate or global grant scholarship within the past three years

 Ineligible Applicants:
Active Rotarians, Rotary employees, or immediate family members of Rotary employees.

Program Components

All Rotary Peace Fellows experience a rigorous, practical, and globally connected program that includes:

• Academic Training in peace and conflict studies

• Applied Field Experience with NGOs, UN agencies, and peace organizations

• Networking with global leaders and experts

• Specialized Workshops & Seminars

• A Final Applied Research Project or Seminar

This combination produces highly skilled and impactful peacebuilders ready to work on a global stage.

Rotary Peace Fellowship Application Timeline (General Annual Cycle)

These dates remain consistent every year:

• January–February: Applications open

• May 15: Application submission deadline

• June–July: Interviews and Rotary endorsements

• August–October: Final selection and university coordination

• November: Fellowship results released

• February–July (following year): Master’s and Certificate programs begin

This cycle applies annually, making it easy for future applicants to prepare ahead.

How to Apply for the Rotary Peace Fellowship Step-by-Step Guide

1. Confirm Eligibility
   Review Rotary’s criteria to ensure you qualify for your chosen program.

2. Research the Peace Centers
   Explore the curriculum, faculty, and specializations. Master’s applicants rank their top two choices.

3. Engage with a Rotary Club
   While optional, a Rotary Club recommendation strengthens your application.

4. Prepare Your Application Documents
   Required documents include:

   • Updated résumé/CV

   • Academic transcripts (Master’s only)

   • English proficiency scores (Master’s only)

   • Professional recommendations

   • Personal essays

   • Social impact plan (Certificate program only)

5. Submit Application Online by May 15
   All applications must be submitted in English through the Rotary Foundation portal.

6. Attend an Interview
   Eligible applicants are contacted by a trained Rotary endorser for an interview in June.

7. Receive Endorsement Decision
   Endorsement decisions are submitted by July.

8. Await Final Results
   Successful applicants are notified in November.

9. Apply for University Admission (Master’s Only)
   Selection for the fellowship does not automatically ensure university admission.

Selection Criteria

The Rotary Peace Centers Committee evaluates candidates using the following:

• Commitment to peace, development, and conflict resolution

• Proven leadership potential

• Academic and professional achievements

• Alignment with the mission of Rotary International

• Feasibility and impact of the Social Change Initiative (Certificate applicants)

The selection is highly competitive, making early preparation essential.

Why You Should Apply for the Rotary Peace Fellowship

The Rotary Peace Fellowship is more than a scholarship—it is a life-changing leadership platform. Fellows join a global network of peacebuilders, access world-class training, and gain the experience needed to influence policy, lead peace initiatives, and drive sustainable development.

Whether you are an emerging leader seeking advanced academic training or a mid-career professional looking to enhance your impact, this fully funded fellowship opens the door to global opportunities in peace and conflict transformation.