Are you a young leader with a vision to create meaningful change in your community and beyond? The Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2026 is one of the most prestigious fully funded opportunities for emerging leaders from Asia and the Pacific.
This fellowship is not just an academic or professional program; it is a transformational experience. Selected fellows will spend 10 days in South Korea and 10 days in the United States, gaining world-class leadership training, engaging in cross-cultural dialogue, and expanding their professional networks.
The fellowship is fully funded, covering airfare, accommodation, visa fees, meals, and local transportation. In addition, fellows receive a Professional Development Award of up to USD 5,000 to support their personalized growth plans.
Whether you are a graduate, a professional, or a community leader, this program offers the skills, exposure, and networks to help you drive sustainable development and leadership in your field.
Interested applicants can apply for Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2026 before the deadline 10 November 2025.
In this article, we have explained every detail regarding this scholarship.
Program Overview
| Program Name | Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2026 |
| Type | Fully Funded Fellowship |
| Host Countries | South Korea & USA |
| Duration | 10 days in Korea + 10 days in USA |
| Program Dates | Korea Study Tour: April 19–25, 2026 (USA dates to be announced) |
| Application Deadline | 10 November 2025 |
| Eligibility – Age | Under 40 years old (by January 1, 2026) |
| Visa Requirement | Must be able to secure a U.S. visa |
| Application Method | Online through official Asia Foundation portal |
Objectives of the Fellowship
The Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program is designed to:
- The fellowship helps candidates strengthen their leadership qualities as emerging leaders.
- Applicants will enhance their knowledge of Asia-Pacific development challenges and opportunities.
- Fellows will build lasting professional and international networks through the program.
- Participants will gain cross-cultural learning and valuable global exposure.
Financial Benefits
This fellowship is fully funded, with no cost to selected fellows. The package includes:
- Health and accident insurance
- Professional Development Award of up to USD 5,000 for personalized growth
- Local transportation
- Accommodation and meals
- Visa fees
- Round-trip airfares
- Coursework and program expenses
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Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Under 40 years old by January 1, 2026.
- Nationality/Residency: Candidates must be a resident or citizen of one of the following: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pacific Islands, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam.
- Experience: Proven achievements in fields such as governance, economic development, women’s empowerment, environmental resilience, education, leadership, or international cooperation.
- Leadership Qualities: Must demonstrate commitment, respect, and the ability to inspire others.
- English Ability: Comfortable communicating in English (no TOEFL/IELTS required).
- Availability: Must be available for all program activities.
- Visa: Must be able to secure a visa for travel to the United States.
Required Documents
Applicants need to prepare and submit the following materials:
- Written submissions or short essays
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A video submission
- Two (2) letters of reference submitted online
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official Asia Foundation website.
Deadline: 10 November 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible to apply?
Individuals under the age of 40 from eligible Asian and Pacific countries who have demonstrated leadership qualities and achievements in their field.
2. Is prior work experience necessary?
No, professional work experience is not required. The program values leadership qualities and achievements, regardless of formal work history.
3. Do I need to take TOEFL/IELTS?
No, there is no requirement for a formal English test. Applicants only need to be comfortable communicating in English.
4. How long is the fellowship?
The fellowship consists of 10 days in South Korea and 10 days in the United States.
5. What does the USD 5,000 Professional Development Award cover?
It supports each fellow’s personalized growth plan, such as further training, research, or leadership projects.
6. What is the application deadline?
The last date to apply is 10 November 2025.