Rotary International - Peace Fellowships

Benefit

You will receive a fully funded place to study peace and conflict studies abroad. A scholarship is a funded place at university with additional support. It covers tuition fees and other charges, accommodation and meals, return travel, and the costs of your placement or fieldwork. The Rotary Foundation runs the programme at partner universities across several continents and awards up to 170 places each year.

There are two degree programmes. The master's degree programme lasts from 15 to 24 months and includes a self-organised field placement lasting from 2 to 3 months. You will study in the USA, Japan, England, Australia or Sweden. The professional certificate is a one-year programme (online plus 11 weeks on-site) at a partner university in Uganda, Turkey or India. Both degree programmes equip you with skills in the field of peacebuilding and connect you to a lasting network of academics, practitioners and Rotary members.

Eligibility

• Degree: You already hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject area.
• Work experience: Admission to the Master’s programme requires at least 3 years’ full-time employment in the field of peace or development. Admission to the certificate programme requires at least 5 years.
• Field: You have a background in peace work, conflict resolution or development cooperation.
• Where you study: You’re studying abroad, not at a peace centre in your own country.
• Nationality: Applicants from all countries are welcome to apply.
• English: You are fluent in English.
• Commitment: Your work and your commitment to society demonstrate a genuine dedication to peace and intercultural understanding, as well as leadership qualities.
• Timing (master's): At least 3 years have passed since you last graduated.
• Not currently studying: You are not currently enrolled on a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree programme, nor will you be in the coming year.
• Rotary members: Active Rotary members and staff of Rotary organisations are not eligible to apply. Rotaract members who are not also Rotary members may apply.

How to apply

Applications are made online via the Rotary member portal. The application deadlines are fixed. Applications for 2028-29 should be submitted online in February 2027. Anyone who knows a suitable candidate may also recommend them to Rotary.

How realistic are your chances?

The scholarship is fully funded and internationally renowned, which is why it attracts committed applicants from all over the world. This results in fierce competition. Experience is the key factor here: you need several years’ practical experience in peace or development work, as well as clear evidence of commitment and leadership qualities – not just good grades. If you clearly meet these requirements and can demonstrate the impact you have made, your chances are good.