The Rotary Peace Fellowship is the ultimate door to fully funded global education if you are a determined professional looking to create sustainable change in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, or community development. Every year, Rotary International grants 130 fellowships to promising leaders worldwide to pursue studies at any of the esteemed Rotary Peace Centres.
The fellowship period for 2026–27 is over; however, the 2027–28 Rotary Peace Fellowship application will become available in February 2026. If you want to use education and practice to increase your influence, you have to get ready now.»
What Is the Rotary Peace Fellowship?
The Rotary Peace Fellowship is a flagship programme of Rotary International that provides full funding for selected professionals to study peace, conflict resolution, and development. The fellowship supports two tracks:
- Master’s Degree Programs (up to 50 fellowships per year)
- Professional Development Certificate Programmes (up to 80 fellowships per year)
Since the program’s launch in 2002, over 1,800 peace fellows from 140+ countries have graduated from Rotary Peace Centres and gone on to lead transformative work in government, NGOs, the United Nations, and grassroots organisations.
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What Does the Fellowship Cover?
Rotary Peace Fellowships are on a full scholarship basis that includes:
- Education and university fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Travel both ways
- Costs for field study and internship
The fellowship is great whether you are going for a research-based master’s degree or simply upgrading your skills through a certificate programme; it removes money worries and allows you to concentrate on peacebuilding education fully.
Who Should Apply? Ideal Candidate Profile
The Rotary Peace Fellowship is primarily aimed at seasoned professionals who have demonstrated community service, leadership skills, and a deep commitment to the cause of peace.
Eligibility Criteria:
- A bachelor’s degree (for both programme types)
- At least three years of relevant work experience
- Proficiency in English (TOEFL or IELTS may be required)
- Demonstrated leadership and commitment to peace and development
- Must not be a current Rotary member or close relative of one
Candidates for the master’s program should not be currently engaged in a graduate degree program. In addition, the last time they should have finished their academic programme is three years or more before the fellowship start date.
Fellowship Tracks: Choose the Programme That Suits You
1. Master’s Degree Programme (15–24 Months)
Rotary is driving this operation with the best educational institutes of the world in the U.S., Japan, Australia, Sweden, and the UK (changes possible). Besides a variety of topics, it included:
- Peace and development studies intensive course
- • A customised field study of 2–3 months by the fellow
- Dialogue with a global, diverse and interdisciplinary community
Designed for experienced professionals who wish to integrate academic theory and applied practice.
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2. Professional Development Certificate (1 Year, Blended Format)
The participants may choose from the following:
- Makerere University: Peacebuilding in Africa is the focus.
- Bahçeşehir University: The Middle East and North Africa constitute the core.
The persons with a lot of expertise in the field are the intended audience of the programme. The main features of the program are as follows:
- Online and face-to-face modules
- Fieldwork and a Social Change Initiative
- Emphasis on practical skills and community-driven peace efforts
This is for postgraduates with real-world experience who want to deepen their impact without committing to a full-time degree.
Rotary Peace Fellowship 2027–28: Key Dates and Timeline
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Application opens | February 2026 |
| Application deadline | 15 May 2026 |
| Selection notifications | November 2026 |
| Fellowship begins | 2027–28 academic year |
Since the application process is rigorous, early preparation is critical.
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Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Rotary Peace Fellowship
- Review the eligibility criteria and determine which programme suits your goals.
- Research Rotary Peace Centres to identify your preferred locations.
- Engage with Rotary: Connect with a local Rotary or Rotaract club using the Club Finder tool. While not mandatory, club endorsements strengthen your application.
- Prepare required documents:
- Academic transcripts
- English test scores (if applicable)
- Resume/CV
- Personal statement video and essays
- Letters of recommendation
- Social Change Initiative plan (for certificate applicants)
- Submit your application between February and 15 May 2026.
- Await results in November 2026.
- Apply separately to the university after being selected for a Rotary Peace Centre.
Where Will You Study?
Rotary Peace Centres are located at globally renowned institutions, including:
- Duke University and UNC-Chapel Hill (USA)
- International Christian University (Japan)
- University of Queensland (Australia)
- Uppsala University (Sweden)
- Makerere University (Uganda) – Certificate Program
- Bahçeşehir University (Turkey) – Certificate Program
Each centre brings a unique regional focus and pedagogical approach to peace and conflict studies.
What Makes the Rotary Peace Fellowship Unique?
Unlike many postgraduate scholarships, Rotary’s programme goes beyond academics:
- Global network: Join a powerful alumni community working in over 140 countries.
- Practical experience: Design your own field project or social initiative.
- Local to global impact: Use your learning to initiate peace efforts at every level.
Rotary’s approach to peace is pragmatic, inclusive, and community-focused, making it one of the most relevant fellowships for modern changemakers.
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Special Certificate Programme Notes
Makerere University (Uganda):
Open to applicants who are:
- From Africa
- Working in Africa or with African communities globally
- Interested in African peacebuilding strategies
Bahçeşehir University (Turkey):
Open to applicants who are:
- From the Middle East or North Africa
- Working in the region or with MENA communities
- Interested in MENA peacebuilding methodologies
These region-specific programmes are ideal for professionals seeking culturally relevant tools to tackle local challenges.
Who Should Not Apply?
Rotary Peace Fellowships cannot be used for:
- Doctoral studies (PhD)
- Current undergraduate or graduate students
- Rotary members or their immediate family members
- Applicants without the required professional experience or time gap after graduation
Past recipients must wait three years before reapplying.
Apply Here: https://www.rotary.org/en/our-programs/peace-fellowships
How to Stand Out: Tips for a Competitive Application
- Start early – The best applications are detailed, well-researched, and reflective.
- Engage with Rotary – Connecting with your local club demonstrates initiative and alignment with Rotary values.
- Craft a compelling narrative – Highlight your leadership, community impact, and vision for peace.
- Demonstrate fit – Show how your goals align with Rotary’s mission and the objectives of your chosen Peace Centre.
Final Thoughts: Is the Rotary Peace Fellowship Right for You?
If you’re committed to building peace in conflict-affected communities or advancing social justice through development, the Rotary Peace Fellowship 2027–28 offers more than just a scholarship. It offers the tools, network, and platform to elevate your work from local impact to global transformation.
Applications open in February 2026 — so now is the time to research, prepare, and connect.