Echidna Global Scholar Program 2026 in USA – Fully Funded Fellowship Opportunity

Are you a passionate professional committed to improving education and advancing gender equality in the Global South?

The Echidna Global Scholar Program 2026 offers a unique, fully funded opportunity to work at the prestigious Brookings Institution in Washington, DC. It takes initiative to contribute to global education and gender equality.

This program is ideal for experienced professionals who want to expand their skills, conduct impactful research. And want to make a tangible difference in the lives of girls, young women, and gender non-conforming individuals.

If you have more than a decade of professional experience, a Master’s degree, and a strong interest in education and gender equality, this fellowship is designed for you.

Read on to explore everything about the program, from eligibility and benefits to application tips and post-fellowship opportunities.

About Echidna Global Scholar Program

The Echidna Global Scholar Program is a visiting fellowship hosted by the Center for Universal Education (CUE) at the Brookings Institution. Its mission is to strengthen the capacity of leaders from developing countries to advance gender equality in education across the Global South.

The program combines hands-on research, leadership development, and policy engagement. Fellows spend two months working remotely in their home countries and four months in Washington, DC, to gain insights into global education systems, policy development. And innovative strategies to improve the lives of girls and gender-diverse individuals.

By participating, fellows not only enhance their professional skills but also contribute valuable research and practical solutions to critical global education challenges.

Let’s take a glance at the Quick Highlight table –

Why Choose the Echidna Global Scholar Program?

• Fully Funded Fellowship – The fellowship covers all major expenses, including international travel, visa costs, housing, and limited health insurance, allowing fellows to focus fully on their work.
• Professional Growth – Fellows will take part in leadership training and capacity-building programs designed to strengthen their skills and professional abilities.
• Research Impact – Participants will have the opportunity to conduct research that directly contributes to advancing gender equality and shaping education policies.
• Global Networking – The program provides a platform to collaborate and exchange ideas with policymakers, scholars, and global development experts from around the world.
• Post-Fellowship Opportunities – Fellows are encouraged to develop and implement projects in their home countries, ensuring their research continues to make a lasting impact.
• Prestigious Institution – By joining the Brookings Institution, a leading think tank, fellows gain recognition and credibility worldwide.

Who can apply to the Echidna Global Scholar Program?

Here’s a polished version of your eligibility criteria written in meaningful sentences:

• To be eligible for the Echidna Global Scholar Program 2026, applicants must come from the Global South region.
• Candidates should have at least 10 years of professional experience in fields such as education, gender studies, public policy, economics, or other related areas.
• A Master’s degree is required for application, while a PhD is not mandatory.
• Applicants should show a clear passion for improving education and opportunities for girls, young women, and gender-diverse people.
• Even if applicants haven’t worked on gender equality before, they can apply if they explain how they will include it in their future work.

Fellowship Responsibilities of the Echidna Global Scholar Program

During the Echidna Global Scholar Program, fellows are expected to:

• Pre-Residency (2 months): Scholars will start the fellowship from their home country, working online to prepare their research and project plans.
• Residency (4 months): Participants will spend four months living and working at the Brookings Institution in Washington, DC.
• Research & Policy Work: During the residency, fellows will do research, write policy papers, and share their findings at Brookings events.
• Capacity Building: Scholars will join workshops and activities that help them build leadership skills and grow professionally.
• Post-Residency Project: After going back home, fellows will start a project to use their research and make a positive impact in their communities.
• Networking: Throughout the program, participants will meet and connect with scholars, policymakers, and experts from around the world to build strong professional networks.

Benefits of the Echidna Global Scholar Program 2026

• Fully Funded – Pays for stipend, travel, visa, housing, and some health insurance.
• Professional Growth – Build leadership, research, and policy skills.
• Research & Policy Impact – Do research, write policy papers, and present at Brookings events.
• Global Networking – Meet and connect with scholars, policymakers, and development experts.
• Prestige & Opportunities – Work at the Brookings Institution and continue projects back home.

Also Read: TU Delft Excellence Scholarship 2026 in Netherlands

Also Read: University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships in Germany 2025-26

Opportunities After the Fellowship

The Echidna Global Scholar Program opens doors to:

• Take leadership roles in education, gender policy, and international development.
• Connect with global policymakers and organizations.
• Publish research and policy papers that support gender equality in education.
• Carry out projects at home to make a lasting impact.

Selection Process of Echidna Global Scholar Program

• Online Application Submission
• Document Review
• Shortlisting
• Interviews
• Final Selection

Required Documents

Prepare the following documents before applying:

• Updated CV/Resume highlighting relevant experience.
• Master’s degree certificate or equivalent.
• Research proposal or statement of purpose detailing your focus on education and gender equality.
• Recommendation letters (typically 2–3) from professional or academic referees.
• Any supporting materials that demonstrate your experience and leadership in education or gender-related work.

Also Read: Yale University World Fellows Program 2026 in the USA (Fully Funded)

How to Apply – Step by Step

• Visit the official Echidna Global Scholar Program website.
• Read the program guidelines and eligibility criteria carefully.
• Prepare all required documents: CV, academic certificates, research proposal, and recommendation letters.
• Complete the online application form and upload documents.
• Review your application carefully before submission.
• Submit the application before 15th December 2025.
• Track your application status and prepare for any potential interview.

Pro Tips to Maximize Your Chances

• Start Early – Begin your application well before the deadline to have enough time to prepare.
• Show Your Impact – Clearly explain how you have contributed to education and gender equality.
• Highlight Leadership – Mention any leadership roles and achievements from your work experience.
• Explain Your Plans – Be specific about how you will use what you learn from the fellowship in your home country.
• Prepare Carefully – Make sure all your documents are organized, complete, and free of errors.

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