The Rotary Peace Fellowship is a globally respected program designed to develop the next generation of leaders in peacebuilding and development. Applications are now open for the 2027–2028 academic year, with a final submission deadline of 15 May 2026. Candidates must apply directly to The Rotary Foundation within the application window to be considered. This competitive fellowship supports professionals committed to advancing peace, conflict resolution, and sustainable development across diverse global contexts. Overview of the Application Process Applicants are required to complete a structured and multi-step application process. Each stage is designed to assess eligibility, motivation, leadership potential, and alignment with Rotary’s mission and values. Key steps in the application process include: Reviewing eligibility restrictions and relevant experience requirements Researching Rotary Peace Centers and their academic programs Ranking preferred Peace Centers for the master’s program (where applicable) Preparing and submitting required documentation in English Completing and submitting the online application before the deadline All applications are considered final upon submission, and candidates are responsible for ensuring completeness before applying. Engagement with Rotary Engagement with Rotary is strongly encouraged as part of the application process. While a club or district recommendation is optional, it can significantly strengthen an application. Applicants are advised to: Use the Rotary Club Finder to locate a local Rotary or Rotaract club Connect with Rotary members to learn about peacebuilding initiatives Seek mentorship or guidance from a District Rotary Peace Fellowship Subcommittee Chair This engagement helps candidates better understand Rotary’s global impact and values while refining their application. Required Application Materials Applicants must submit original, authentic content based on their personal experience and motivation. The use of generative AI content is highly discouraged, and plagiarism will result in disqualification. Required materials include: A professional resume Academic and/or professional letters of recommendation Personal essays and a personal statement video Official postsecondary transcripts (master’s program only) English language proficiency test scores, such as IELTS or TOEFL (if required) A Social Change Initiative plan (certificate program only) All materials must be submitted in English. Applicants are encouraged to allow sufficient time to request transcripts and register for required language exams. Certificate Program Eligibility by Region Rotary offers professional development certificate programs at select Peace Centers, each with region-specific eligibility criteria. Eligible regional pathways include: Makerere University (Uganda): Candidates from Africa Individuals who have worked in Africa Applicants working with African communities globally Candidates outside the region with a demonstrated interest in African peacebuilding Bahçeşehir University (Türkiye): Candidates from the Middle East or North Africa Individuals working in or with MENA-region communities Applicants outside the region with a strong focus on MENA peacebuilding Symbiosis International University (India): Candidates from Asia Individuals with professional experience in Asia Applicants working globally on Asia-related peace initiatives Applicants must clearly demonstrate their regional connection or interest within their application. Selection and Evaluation Process All submitted applications undergo a rigorous review process. Applications that meet eligibility and qualification standards move forward for further evaluation. The selection process includes: Initial screening for eligibility and completeness Evaluation by the Rotary Peace Centers Committee and university representatives Assessment against defined selection criteria Potential interviews conducted by partner universities Final selection and notification in November 2026 Successful candidates are informed of the Rotary Peace Center where they will study. Selection for the fellowship does not guarantee admission to the host university; candidates must still complete the university’s admissions process. Assessment Criteria Applications are evaluated holistically, with emphasis on both professional merit and alignment with Rotary’s mission. Evaluation criteria include: Compliance with eligibility requirements English language proficiency Demonstrated commitment to peace and development Leadership potential and professional maturity Alignment with Rotary’s values and fellowship objectives Academic performance and program suitability Feasibility and impact of the Social Change Initiative (certificate program only) Eligibility Restrictions Rotary Peace Fellowships are not available for doctoral study. Ineligible applicants include: Active Rotary members or Rotaract members who are also Rotary members Employees of Rotary clubs, districts, or Rotary International entities Immediate family members of current or recent Rotary members or employees Former Rotary members and their relatives within 36 months of resignation Additional restrictions apply to academic timelines: Master’s candidates must have at least three years between their most recent degree completion and fellowship start date Individuals currently enrolled in academic programs are not eligible Former Rotary Peace Fellows or Global Grant recipients must wait three years before reapplying Final Notes and Resources Applicants are encouraged to consult official Rotary resources, including experience guides, eligibility references, and program brochures, to ensure a complete and competitive application. The Rotary Peace Fellowship represents a significant opportunity for professionals dedicated to advancing peace through leadership, collaboration, and evidence-based practice at a global level. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this fellowship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.