If you’re passionate about global peacebuilding, committed to creating lasting impact, and looking for academic and professional development opportunities to advance your work, the Rotary Peace Fellowship 2026 could be the transformative experience you need. This highly competitive and prestigious program equips leaders from around the world with the skills, knowledge, and networks to promote peace and resolve conflict.
📅 Application Deadline: 15 May 2025
All application materials must be submitted in English and are final upon submission.
🔍 What is the Rotary Peace Fellowship 2026?
The Rotary Peace Fellowship is a fully funded opportunity for emerging peace leaders to pursue either a master’s degree or a professional development certificate at one of Rotary’s premier Peace Centers around the world. Fellows are selected based on their academic and professional achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to peace and conflict resolution.
✅ Key Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2026 Rotary Peace Fellowship, candidates must:
- Be proficient in English.
- Have a minimum of three years of post-degree experience (master’s program) or five years (certificate program) in peacebuilding or development.
- Have completed their most recent academic degree at least three years prior to the intended start date.
- Not be currently enrolled in or planning to enroll in an academic degree program during the fellowship.
- Not use the fellowship for doctoral study.
Candidates who have already received a Rotary Fellowship or Global Grant must observe a three-year waiting period.
📌 Program Options – Rotary Peace Fellowship 2026
🎓 Master’s Degree Program
- Choose first and second preference universities from Rotary’s Peace Center partners.
- Must upload transcripts from all institutions attended.
- Required to submit five essays (300–500 words each) and a personal statement video (max 2 minutes).
- Must demonstrate how the fellowship aligns with your academic and career goals, especially if you already have a graduate degree in a related field.
📜 Certificate Program
- Select preferred sessions (first and second).
- Must have ties to or work related to Sub-Saharan Africa or the Middle East/North Africa (MENA).
- Submit one personalized essay (300–500 words).
- Submit a social change initiative proposal—a practical project to be implemented after the on-site session.
- Include a personal statement video and documentation of relevant work experience.
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📝 Application Requirements
Here’s a breakdown of what’s required in your application for Rotary Peace Fellowship 2026:
1. Candidate Certification
You must agree to uphold the terms of the application, including submitting only original content.
2. Personal Information
Includes demographic data, contact details, and program selection.
3. Relevant Experience
You’ll describe your peacebuilding and development work. Accepted sectors include:
- Government and diplomacy
- NGOs
- Economic development
- Education and research
- Advocacy and activism
- Law, public health, journalism, and more
4. Education
List all higher education institutions attended. Master’s candidates must upload transcripts in English.
5. Essays
Your responses must reflect your personal journey and commitment to peace. Plagiarism or the use of generative AI tools may result in disqualification.
6. Personal Statement Video
A 2-minute video detailing your peace journey, motivations, and communication skills. No professional editing or AI-generated visuals allowed.
7. Cross-Cultural Experience
Describe any international or intercultural experience, even if local.
8. Languages
Indicate native and additional language proficiencies. Non-native English speakers applying for the master’s program must submit proof of English proficiency.
💬 Connecting with Rotary
While not mandatory, candidates are strongly encouraged to connect with a local Rotary or Rotaract Club. They can offer:
- Mentorship and guidance
- Application support
- Optional recommendation letters
Use the District Contact Finder in the application to connect with Rotary Peace Fellowship Subcommittee Chairs or search online for clubs focused on peace.
⚠️ Important Tips
- Start early. Collect documents, transcripts, and letters in advance.
- Don’t plagiarize. All content must be based on your personal story.
- Avoid AI tools. Generic or AI-generated responses may disqualify your application.
- Be specific and honest. Evaluators value authenticity and well-articulated goals.
📆 Application Timeline for 2025
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| 📬 Applications Open | Now accepting |
| 🗓️ Deadline to Apply | May 15, 2025 |
| 🎙️ Selection Interviews | July – August 2025 |
| ✅ Final Results Announced | November 2025 |
| ✅ Programs Begin | January–March 2026 (depending on center) |
📈 Why Apply?
Rotary Peace Fellows gain:
- Access to world-class academic training
- A global network of peacebuilders
- Skills to implement impactful change in their communities
Whether you’re seeking a deeper academic foundation or practical training to amplify your peace efforts, the 2026 Rotary Peace Fellowship is a life-changing opportunity.
🔗 Learn More and Apply
Visit the official website: rotary.org/peace-fellowships
Need help with your application? Reach out to [email protected].
Contact Details
Helpline No:
+1 866-976-8279 (Toll-free)
+1 847-866-3000
Rotary International
One Rotary Center
1560 Sherman Ave.
Evanston, IL 60201-3698, USA
