Overview
The Rotary Peace Fellowship, run by Rotary International's Rotary Peace Centers, provides fully funded master's degree study (and a shorter professional development certificate track) at a small number of partner universities worldwide, some of which are in the US, focused specifically on peace, conflict resolution, and development.
Eligibility
Applicants typically need relevant professional or volunteer experience in peace, development, or related fields, strong academic credentials, and demonstrated commitment to a career addressing conflict or peacebuilding — this program is not aimed at students without any relevant field experience.
How to Apply
Applications generally require endorsement from a local Rotary club or district, which is a distinctive feature compared to most scholarship processes — building a relationship with a local Rotary club well before the application deadline is often a practical first step.
What It Covers
The fellowship covers tuition, travel, room and board, and other program-related expenses for the fellowship's full duration at the assigned Rotary Peace Center.
Tips
- Connect with a local Rotary club early — many candidates underestimate how long the endorsement relationship-building step takes.
- Emphasize concrete field experience in peacebuilding, development, or conflict resolution — this program weighs practical background heavily, not just academics.
- Review the current list of Rotary Peace Center partner universities, since your specific placement depends on which centers are active in a given cycle.
Always confirm current deadlines, award amounts, and eligibility directly on the official program's website (rotary.org/peace-fellowships) before applying — these details change from year to year.