Yale World Fellows Program: Application Open For The 2026 Cohort
The Maurice R. Greenberg World Fellows Program at Yale University is now accepting applications for its 2026 cohort a prestigious, fully residential leadership fellowship designed for rising global leaders who are committed to creating positive change in their communities.
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What Is the World Fellows Program?
Based in Yale’s Jackson School of Global Affairs, the World Fellows Program is a four month immersive experience that runs from mid August through mid December. During this time, Fellows live in New Haven, Connecticut, and engage deeply with Yale’s intellectual community auditing classes across Yale’s departments, attending weekly leadership seminars, hosting salons, and working alongside faculty and students.
Fellows also mentor Yale students, lead public talks, and collaborate on projects, forging meaningful connections with both the university and other globally minded professionals.
Who Can Apply?
The program is tailored for mid-career professionals individuals who are about five to twenty-five years into their careers, and who have demonstrated significant achievement at the regional, national, or international level. While there’s no formal age limit, the average age of past Fellows is around 39.
Applicants must be citizens of a country other than the United States. Dual U.S. citizens are eligible, but preference is given to those whose work primarily focuses outside the U.S. Fluency in English is required, since the fellowship involves intensive seminars, public speaking, and collaboration.
One of the most important commitments is full-time residence at Yale for the whole four months.
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What Yale Looks for in Fellows
The selection process is very competitive. Yale seeks individuals who:
- Have a proven track record of extraordinary achievement and integrity
- Are deeply committed to building a “good society” contributing positively at local, national, or global levels
- Show potential for future global leadership, with the capacity to make an impact beyond their immediate context
- Can think creatively, strategically, and entrepreneurially, particularly when it comes to solving complex problems
- Are likely both to benefit from the program and to add value to Yale’s campus experience through their distinct perspectives and expertise
- Are willing to fully commit: Fellows should participate actively in seminars, mentor students, and speak on campus.
Application Components
The application is completed entirely online, and there is no fee to apply. Applicants will need to submit:
- A résumé or CV (maximum 3 pages)
- A personal statement (up to 600 words) describing your journey, leadership, and why you want to join the program.
- Three letters of recommendation, from people who can speak to your leadership, work, and potential.
- A brief video statement, where you introduce yourself and articulate your motivations.
You can begin your application early, save your progress, request recommendations, and upload all materials before submitting by the deadline.
Compensation & Benefits
World Fellows receive a generous compensation package to support their time at Yale:
- A taxable stipend to help cover living costs in New Haven.
- A furnished apartment (one or two bedroom) for the full four month residency.
- Medical insurance to ensure health coverage during the fellowship.
- Round trip travel from your home country to New Haven.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The Yale World Fellows Program offers an unparalleled growth opportunity for mid career leaders. You’ll be able to:
- Reflect on your leadership journey while being challenged by leading thinkers and practitioners
- Expand your global network by connecting with other Fellows, Yale faculty, and students
- Access Yale’s world class academic resources, including auditing courses across multiple disciplines
- Receive personalized coaching, participate in world-class seminars, and gain insights into public engagement, strategy, and vision
- Contribute to Yale’s intellectual life by mentoring students and offering your expertise
Beyond the program, you’ll become part of an alumni network spread across the globe over 400 Fellows from more than 90 countries.
Important Dates & Next Steps
- Application Deadline: December 3, 2025 at 1:00 PM EST.
- Program Duration: Mid August through mid-December 2026 (residential in New Haven)
- To apply, visit Yale’s official World Fellows application portal through their website.
- For any questions not covered in the FAQs, contact the team at applicant.worldfellows@yale.edu.
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