Rotary Peace Fellowships

The Rotary Peace Fellowship is a fully funded global program that supports leaders dedicated to peace and conflict resolution. It offers opportunities for professionals to develop their skills and knowledge through postgraduate study and specialised training at Rotary Peace Centres around the world.

Each year, Rotary International awards up to 170 fellowships, covering tuition fees, housing and meals, round-trip transportation, and eligible internship and field-study expenses. Applicants can choose between a 15–24-month master's degree programme and a professional development certificate programme, which offers focused training in peacebuilding.

This page covers the Rotary Peace Fellowship eligibility criteria, benefits, participating universities, application process, deadlines, and selection procedure. It also explains the required documents and how to check your application status.

Rotary Peace Fellowship Eligibility Criteria

The Rotary Peace Fellowship has separate eligibility requirements for its master's degree and professional development certificate programmes. Applicants need to meet the academic, professional and language requirements for their chosen programme and demonstrate a clear commitment to peace and development.

Academic and Professional Requirements

Applicants must have a suitable educational background and relevant professional experience. The requirements depend on the programme they choose.

Requirement	Master's degree programme	Professional development certificate
Academic qualification	Bachelor's degree	Bachelor's degree
Relevant work experience	At least 3 years of full-time experience	At least 5 years of full-time experience
English proficiency	Required	Required
Leadership potential	Required	Required
Commitment to peace	Demonstrated through academic, professional or community work	Demonstrated through academic, professional or community work

For the master's programme, applicants should also have at least three years between completing their most recent academic degree and the intended start of the fellowship. Candidates who are currently enrolled in a degree programme, or who will be enrolled in the upcoming academic year, are not eligible.

Nationality and Applicant Requirements

The Rotary Peace Fellowship is open to applicants from around the world, subject to the eligibility conditions of their chosen programme and peace centre. Applicants do not have to be Rotary members to apply.

However, certain individuals are not eligible, including:

• Active Rotary members and Rotaract members who are also Rotary members.
• Employees of Rotary clubs, districts, Rotary International, or other Rotary entities.
• Certain close relatives of current or former Rotary members and employees, as specified in Rotary's eligibility rules.
• Former Rotary members and their specified relatives within 36 months of the member's resignation.

Rotaract members who are not also Rotary members may apply if they meet the other requirements.

Some certificate programmes have additional regional eligibility conditions. For example, applicants to the Makerere University programme must have a relevant connection to Africa or a compelling interest in peacebuilding approaches in the region. The same principle applies to the Bahçeşehir University programme and its focus on the Middle East and North Africa.

Work Experience Requirements

Relevant work experience is an important part of the Rotary Peace Fellowship application. The programme is intended for professionals who have already contributed to peacebuilding, conflict resolution, or development and want to expand their knowledge and practical skills.

The minimum experience requirements are:

• Master's degree programme: At least three years of relevant full-time work experience in peace or development.
• Professional development certificate: At least five years of relevant full-time work experience in peace or development.

Relevant experience can come from different sectors, including government, education, non-governmental organisations, public health, community development and international organisations. Applicants should be able to explain how their professional background connects to peace and development.

Language and English Proficiency Requirements

English proficiency is required for both fellowship programmes because the coursework and application materials are in English.

For the master's programme, non-native English speakers must provide an accepted English language test score, such as IELTS or TOEFL, unless they qualify for an exemption under Rotary's current rules. Applicants should check the official English test reference sheet for the accepted tests, minimum scores and exemptions before applying.

The certificate programme also requires English proficiency. Applicants should review the programme's current instructions to confirm how this must be demonstrated.

Peacebuilding and Community Engagement Requirements

Applicants should demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace and conflict prevention through their professional achievements, academic background, or community involvement. Rotary looks for candidates who can apply their learning to real-world challenges and contribute to positive change.

Examples of relevant experience may include:

• Working on conflict prevention, mediation, or peacebuilding projects.
• Supporting community development or humanitarian initiatives.
• Contributing to education, public health or environmental programmes.
• Promoting cross-cultural understanding and cooperation.
• Taking leadership roles in organisations or community initiatives.

Applicants should also explain their future goals and how the fellowship will help them contribute to peace and development.

Also Read: What is the Difference between Fellowship and Scholarship?

Benefits of the Rotary Peace Fellowship

The Rotary Peace Fellowship provides financial support for selected candidates to study at a Rotary Peace Centre. The funding covers major study and living expenses, as well as travel and eligible field-study costs. Rotary awards up to 170 fellowships each year, including up to 50 for master's degrees and up to 120 for certificate studies.

Rotary Peace Fellowship Coverage and Funding

The fellowship is fully funded and covers the main expenses associated with the programme.

Expense	Coverage
Tuition fees	Covered
Room and board	Covered
Round-trip transportation	Covered
Internship expenses	Covered, where applicable
Field-study expenses	Covered
Research expenses	Covered, where applicable

The exact arrangements may depend on the programme and the requirements of the participating university. Applicants should refer to the official fellowship guidance for the current funding conditions.

Additional Benefits for Fellows

In addition to financial support, fellows gain access to academic training, practical learning opportunities and a global network of peace and development professionals.

Other benefits include:

• Practical experience: Master's students complete an applied field experience, while certificate students undertake field studies and develop a social change initiative.
• Professional development: Fellows learn approaches to peacebuilding, conflict resolution and international development.
• Global networking: Fellows connect with other professionals, academics and Rotary members from different countries.
• Leadership skills: The programmes help participants develop the skills needed to contribute to peacebuilding and development in their communities and organisations.
• International exposure: Studying alongside people from different backgrounds offers opportunities to exchange ideas and learn about different approaches to peace.

Planning to apply for a fellowship programme? Check out Harvey Fellowship

Courses and Programmes Covered Under the Rotary Peace Fellowship

The Rotary Peace Fellowship offers two main study options: a master's degree programme and a professional development certificate programme. Both focus on peace and development, but they differ in duration, format, and work experience requirements.

Master's Degree Programme

The master's degree programme is designed for early-career professionals who want to deepen their academic knowledge and practical understanding of peace and development.

Key features include:

• Duration: 15 to 24 months, depending on the university and degree programme.
• Study format: Full-time postgraduate study.
• Field experience: A self-designed applied field experience lasting two to three months.
• Focus areas: Peace and conflict studies, international development and related subjects.
• Eligibility: A bachelor's degree, English proficiency, and at least three years of relevant full-time experience.

The programme combines academic study with practical learning and provides opportunities to work with people from different professional and cultural backgrounds. Applicants must study at a centre outside their home country.

Professional Development Certificate Programme

The professional development certificate programme is intended for experienced peace and development professionals who want to strengthen their practical skills while building on their existing careers.

Its main features include:

• Duration: One year, with a blended learning format.
• Work experience: At least five years of relevant full-time experience.
• Academic qualification: A bachelor's degree.
• Practical learning: Field studies and a social change initiative designed and carried out by the fellow.
• Focus: Applying peacebuilding skills to challenges in communities and regions.

The certificate programme is particularly suited to working professionals who want to develop their expertise without pursuing a traditional master's degree.

Rotary Peace Centres and Partner Universities

Rotary Peace Centres are based at partner universities around the world. Each centre has its own academic focus, programme structure and learning environment. Applicants should compare the courses and research opportunities available at each centre before selecting their preferences.

The current Rotary programme includes master's study at partner universities such as:

• Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA.
• International Christian University, Tokyo, Japan.
• University of Bradford, England.
• University of Queensland, Australia.
• Uppsala University, Sweden.

Certificate programmes are also offered at designated centres, including Chulalongkorn University in Thailand, Makerere University in Uganda, Bahçeşehir University in Türkiye and Symbiosis International University in India. Check Rotary's current centre and programme information before applying, as offerings and locations may change.

Also Read: Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students

Rotary Peace Fellowship Application Deadline

The Rotary Peace Fellowship follows an annual application cycle. The application for the 2027–28 academic year is closed, while Rotary states that applications for the 2028–29 academic year will become available online in February 2027.

Key Dates and Application Timeline

Rotary's published application guidance gives the following general timeline. The exact dates for the 2028–29 cycle should be checked when the application opens.

Application stage	Application Timeline
Online application opens for 2028–29	February 2027
Complete and submit the application	By 15 May 2027, subject to confirmation in the new cycle
District and Rotary review	Following the application deadline
Final selection and notification	Expected by November 2027, based on the published annual process
Fellowship begins	According to the selected centre's academic calendar

How to Prepare Before the Deadline

Applicants should start preparing well before the online application opens. Gathering documents, arranging recommendations and researching the available programmes can take time.

A simple preparation checklist includes:

• Review the current eligibility criteria for your chosen programme.
• Identify the Rotary Peace Centres that match your academic and professional interests.
• Request academic transcripts and relevant recommendations early.
• Arrange English language tests if required for the master's programme.
• Prepare your résumé, essays, and personal statement video.
• Develop your social impact plan if applying for the certificate programme.
• Contact a local Rotary club or district for guidance, if possible.
• Check the official application portal for the confirmed deadline and submission instructions.

How to Apply for the Rotary Peace Fellowship?

The Rotary Peace Fellowship application is submitted online through Rotary's official application system. Applicants should first choose a suitable programme, review the eligibility requirements, and prepare their supporting documents. 

They are also encouraged to connect with a local Rotary club or district for guidance. A club or district recommendation is optional but strongly encouraged.

Choose a Suitable Fellowship Programme

Start by deciding whether the master's degree or professional development certificate programme fits your academic background, work experience, and career plans.

Consider the following before choosing:

• Your relevant professional experience and academic qualifications.
• Whether you want to pursue a postgraduate degree or a professional development certificate.
• The programme duration and study format.
• The courses, research opportunities and practical experience available at each centre.
• The location and any additional regional eligibility conditions for certificate programmes.

Master's applicants who are eligible for more than one centre may be asked to rank their preferred centres as part of the application.

Contact a Rotary District for Guidance

Applicants can connect with a local Rotary or Rotaract club to learn more about the fellowship and seek application guidance. Rotary recommends contacting a district's Peace Fellowship subcommittee chair, where available.

You can follow these steps:

1. Use the official Rotary Club Finder
   to locate a nearby club.
2. Contact the club and ask about the Rotary Peace Fellowship.
3. Request details of the relevant district and its fellowship guidance process.
4. Ask whether the district offers mentorship, application advice or an interview for prospective candidates.

A Rotary club or district recommendation is optional, but Rotary strongly encourages applicants to engage with local Rotary members.

Complete the Online Application

Once you have reviewed the requirements and selected your preferred programme, you can begin the Rotary Peace Fellowship application online.

The general application process involves:

• Reviewing the eligibility rules and relevant experience guidance.
• Researching the participating Peace Centres and their programmes.
• Preparing the required documents, essays and recommendations.
• Completing the online application in English.
• Submitting the application and ensuring all required recommendations are entered before the deadline.

The application is considered final once submitted, so check all details and supporting materials carefully before sending it.

Documents Required for the Fellowship

The required documents depend on whether you are applying for the master's programme or the professional development certificate.

Document or information	Master's programme	Certificate programme
Updated résumé or CV	Required	Required
Academic and/or professional recommendations	Required	Required
Personal statement video and essays	Required	Required
Postsecondary academic transcripts	Required	Not generally required
English proficiency test scores	Required where applicable	Check current programme instructions
Social impact plan	Not generally required	Required
Rotary club or district recommendation	Optional, strongly encouraged	Optional, strongly encouraged

All application materials must be submitted in English. Master's applicants should allow sufficient time to request transcripts and complete any required English language tests. Certificate applicants should prepare a clear social impact plan explaining how they intend to apply their learning to promote peace.

Rotary Peace Fellowship Selection Process

The Rotary Peace Fellowship selection process includes an eligibility screening, a detailed application review, and a final selection stage. Applicants are assessed on their academic and professional background, commitment to peace and development, leadership potential, and suitability for the chosen programme.

Application Review and Initial Screening

After submission, applications are checked against the programme's eligibility requirements. Applications that meet the basic criteria move forward for further review.

The initial screening considers:

• Academic qualifications and relevant work experience.
• English language proficiency.
• Eligibility for the selected programme and centre.
• Completeness of the application and supporting documents.

Applicants should make sure that their experience and goals are clearly explained in their application.

Interview and Candidate Assessment

Rotary districts may conduct interviews as part of their review and endorsement process. Applicants should be prepared to discuss their professional background, reasons for applying, and future plans for contributing to peace and development.

The interview and application assessment may explore:

• Your previous work in peacebuilding or development.
• Your leadership experience and potential.
• How you have worked with communities or people from different backgrounds.
• Your plans for using the skills gained during the fellowship.
• How your goals align with Rotary's peacebuilding mission.

Districts may endorse candidates for further consideration, but an endorsement does not guarantee selection.

Final Selection and Fellowship Placement

Qualified applications are reviewed by the Rotary Peace Centers Committee and university representatives. The committee assesses candidates against the fellowship's objectives and selects finalists. The final selection process also involves approval by the trustees of The Rotary Foundation.

Selected candidates are notified of the results, with Rotary's published guidance indicating that applicants are informed in November. Fellowship selection does not automatically mean admission to the university. Successful candidates must also apply to and meet the admission requirements of their designated university.

How to Check Rotary Peace Fellowship Application Status?

Follow the instructions on the official Rotary application system during the selection process. Applicants are notified of qualification and selection results and selected fellows are notified of their center placement in November, as per Rotary’s published guidance.

To check the status of your application:

• Check your application account. Visit the official Rotary Peace Fellowship application portal and look for updates.
• Keep checking your email: Please check your email (including spam/junk folders) for official communications to the email address provided in your application.
• Follow up with your Rotary district: If you have questions related to an interview or district endorsement, please contact the district representative who helped you.
• If you need help, contact Rotary: If you cannot access your application or need clarification on the selection process, please use the official contact details provided by Rotary.

Applicants should rely on official communication rather than assuming that a lack of updates means their application has been rejected.

Conclusion

The Rotary Peace Fellowship provides fully funded opportunities for professionals who want to develop their knowledge and skills in peacebuilding, conflict prevention and international development. With master's degree and professional development certificate options, applicants can choose a programme that matches their qualifications, experience and career goals.

Before applying, review the eligibility criteria, compare the participating Peace Centres, and prepare the required documents well in advance. The next application cycle for 2028–29 is expected to open in February 2027, so check Rotary's official website for the latest instructions and confirmed deadlines.

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