For Nigerian graduates, peacebuilders, and mid-career professionals looking to make a global impact, the Rotary Peace Fellowship Program 2027-28 offers a life-changing opportunity. If you are passionate about community development, conflict resolution, and international service, this fully-funded scholarship could be your stepping stone to a global platform.
Every year, the Rotary Foundation awards up to 170 fellowships to extraordinary leaders from around the world. These awards equip participants with the skills, networking, and academic training needed to become effective ambassadors of peace.
Here is everything you need to know about the program, what it covers, and how to submit a winning application.
What is the Rotary Peace Fellowship?
The Rotary Peace Fellowship is designed to gather future leaders of change and provide them with advanced, research-informed training. Since 2002, the Rotary Peace Centers have trained over 1,800 fellows who now serve in governments, NGOs, the United Nations, and the World Bank.
The fellowship is divided into two distinct pathways to accommodate different career stages:
- Master’s Degree Program: For early-career professionals looking to pursue a 15 to 24-month master’s degree in peace and development issues. (50 fellowships awarded annually).
- Professional Development Certificate: A one-year blended learning program for experienced, mid-career professionals. (Up to 120 fellowships awarded annually).
What Does the Fellowship Cover?
This is a 100% fully-funded opportunity. If selected, you will not have to worry about the financial burden of studying abroad. The Rotary Foundation covers:
- Full tuition and university fees
- Room and board (accommodation and feeding)
- Round-trip international transportation
- All internship and field-study expenses
- Comprehensive health insurance
Available Programs & Host Universities
As a Rotary Peace Fellow, you will study at one of Rotary’s premier partner universities across the globe.
1. Master’s Degree Program Locations
- Australia: University of Queensland, Brisbane
- England: University of Bradford, Bradford
- Japan: International Christian University, Tokyo
- Sweden: Uppsala University, Uppsala
- USA: Duke University and the University of North Carolina, Durham and Chapel Hill
2. Professional Development Certificate Locations
- Uganda: Makerere University, Kampala (An excellent choice for African professionals focusing on regional peacebuilding)
- Türkiye: Bahçeşehir University (BAU), Istanbul
- India: Symbiosis International University, Pune
Are You Eligible to Apply?
To be considered for the 2027-28 cohort, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Language: Must be highly proficient in English.
- Academic Background: Master’s degree applicants must hold a completed bachelor’s degree.
- Work Experience: * Master’s Program: At least three years of relevant, full-time experience in peace or development work.
- Certificate Program: At least five years of relevant work experience. Certificate candidates must also come with a clear plan for a social change initiative.
- Academic Gap: Master’s candidates must have a gap of at least three years between the completion of their most recent degree and the start of the fellowship. Currently enrolled students are not eligible.
- Track Record: A strong, demonstrable record of community service, personal achievements, and leadership in peacebuilding.
- Ineligibility: Active Rotary members, employees of a Rotary Club, or other Rotary entities are not eligible to apply.
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How to Apply for the 2027-2028 Cohort
The application window is currently open, and competition is tight. Here is how to get started:
- Review the Curricula: Visit the official Rotary website to explore the specific programs offered at each Rotary Peace Center and decide which aligns best with your goals.
- Prepare Your Documents: You will need an updated CV/resume, academic and professional recommendations, personal statement essays (and a video), and transcripts.
- Submit Online: All applications must be submitted directly to the Rotary Foundation via their online portal.
Important Deadline: The application deadline is May 15, 2026. Ensure all materials, including your recommendations, are submitted well before this date.
