The Yale World Fellows Program—one of the world’s most prestigious global leadership fellowships—has officially opened applications for its 2026 cohort. Hosted by the Yale Jackson School of Global Affairs, this fully funded opportunity attracts mid-career professionals from every corner of the world who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, social impact, and professional excellence.
For many global changemakers, this program is a career-defining milestone offering world-class training, global exposure, and a residence experience at Yale University.
A Global Fellowship with Extraordinary Prestige
Admission to the Yale World Fellows Program is extremely selective. Thousands of applicants apply each year, but only a small group is chosen, ensuring that each cohort remains diverse, globally balanced, and representative of a broad spectrum of professional fields. Fellows typically come from government, social impact organizations, the arts, STEM, business, journalism, activism, and various public-service sectors.
Participants spend mid-August to mid-December in residence at Yale University, engaging in academic enrichment, leadership development, global networking, and mentoring activities—all while contributing meaningfully to the Yale campus community.
Who Should Apply? Eligibility Requirements Explained
The program targets mid-career professionals with five to twenty-five years of experience. Although there is no minimum or maximum age, the average fellow is around 39 years old.
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of a country other than the United States (dual U.S. citizenship is allowed, but preference goes to those working outside the U.S.).
- Have a proven record of significant professional achievements, nationally or internationally.
- Demonstrate strong English proficiency, as the program’s activities are intensive and discussion-based.
- Commit to full-time residence at Yale for the entire program duration.
What Yale Looks For: Selection Criteria?
The admissions committee seeks individuals who possess:
- Extraordinary accomplishments and professional integrity
- A commitment to building a better society and creating meaningful impact
- Strong leadership potential with a future global footprint
- Creative, strategic, entrepreneurial, or disruptive thinking
- The ability to contribute to Yale’s global learning ecosystem
- A commitment to mentorship, campus engagement, and rigorous participation
Compensation Package: Fully Funded Support
Selected Yale World Fellows receive a comprehensive funded package that includes:
- A taxable living stipend to fully cover expenses in New Haven
- A furnished one- or two-bedroom apartment
- Medical insurance through Yale
- Round-trip airfare from the home country
This enables Fellows to dedicate themselves entirely to learning, networking, and skill-building without financial burdens.
How to Apply: Online Process Overview
The entire application is completed online, with no application fee. Applicants may work on their submission anytime before the deadline.
Required materials include:
- A résumé or CV (maximum 3 pages)
- A 600-word personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- A short video statement
Once you create an account, you may upload documents, track submissions, and request recommendations directly through the system.