The Rotary Peace Fellowship is one of the most coveted fully funded scholarships in the world for professionals working in peace-building, conflict resolution, and international development. Offered by Rotary International, it funds a master’s degree at six of the world’s leading universities — one in the USA, one in the UK, one in Japan, one in Australia, one in Sweden, and one in Thailand. The 2026–27 fellowship accepted applications until 15 May 2026; the next cycle opens in early 2027.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Rotary Peace Fellowship 2026–27 |
| Host Countries | USA, UK, Japan, Australia, Sweden, Thailand |
| Study Level | Postgraduate (Master’s) and Professional Certificate |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Annual Deadline | Mid-May (next cycle: ~May 2027) |
| Fellowships Awarded | ~50 Master’s + ~120 Professional Certificates per year |
| Official Website | rotary.org |
What Does the Rotary Peace Fellowship Cover?
- Full tuition: All academic fees at the host university
- Living stipend: Monthly allowance for accommodation and living expenses
- Round-trip airfare: Travel from Nepal to the host country and return
- Internship travel: Support for field placement travel during the programme
- Health insurance: Comprehensive coverage
Partner Universities
| University | Country | Programme Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Duke University / UNC-Chapel Hill | USA | International development, public policy |
| University of Bradford | UK | Peace, conflict, and development |
| International Christian University | Japan | Peace studies in the Asia-Pacific context |
| University of Queensland | Australia | Conflict transformation, humanitarian action |
| Uppsala University | Sweden | Peace and conflict research |
| Chulalongkorn University | Thailand | Social innovation, community development (certificate) |
Eligibility Requirements
- Nepali citizen (any nationality eligible)
- Minimum 3 years of full-time work experience in peace-building, conflict resolution, development, or a related field
- Bachelor’s degree
- Strong English proficiency
- Must be endorsed by a local Rotary club — contact Rotary clubs in Kathmandu to initiate endorsement
- Commitment to return to work in development or peace-building after the programme
Who Is This Fellowship For?
Rotary Peace Fellows are mid-career professionals, not fresh graduates. Successful Nepali applicants typically work in:
- NGOs and INGOs focused on conflict, human rights, or humanitarian response
- Government (foreign affairs, home ministry, peacebuilding commissions)
- International organisations (UN agencies, Red Cross)
- Journalism and media covering conflict zones
- Academic or policy research on South Asian security
How to Apply
- Find a sponsoring Rotary club in Nepal — this is the first and most critical step. Contact the Rotary District 3292 (Nepal) for guidance.
- Complete the online Rotary Peace Fellowship application
- Submit: CV, personal statements, 3 reference letters, and academic transcripts
- If shortlisted, attend an interview with Rotary representatives
- Finalists are invited for in-person interviews at the respective university
Tips for Nepali Applicants
- The Rotary club endorsement is not optional. Start building relationships with local Rotary clubs at least 6 months before the application window opens.
- Your professional experience must be directly relevant. Working at a Nepal-based NGO or government peacebuilding agency for 3+ years makes you a strong candidate.
- The next cycle opens early 2027. Use 2026 to prepare — get your endorsement, polish your statements, and accumulate relevant experience.
The Rotary Peace Fellowship transforms careers in international peace and development. For Nepali professionals in this space, it is one of the most prestigious and life-changing opportunities available. Begin your Rotary club connection now for the 2027 cycle.