The Asia Foundation Development Fellowship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for talented young professionals from Asia and the Pacific to enhance their leadership skills, expand their professional networks, and gain a comprehensive understanding of Asia-Pacific development. The program is fully funded and spans ten days each in South Korea and the USA.

  • 🎓 Eligibility: International applicants under 40 with bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral degrees, or relevant professional experience. No work experience or English test required.
  • 💰 Funding: Fully funded — airfare, lodging, meals, visa fees, local transport, health insurance, coursework, plus $5,000 Professional Development Award.
  • 📍 Location: 10 days in Korea + 10 days in USA.
  • 🏛 Organizer: Asia Foundation — nonprofit working on governance, women’s empowerment, education, environment, economic growth, and regional cooperation.
  • 🌟 Objectives: Build leadership skills, strengthen networks, expand knowledge of Asia-Pacific development, and gain global exposure.
  • 📄 Required Documents: Online form, short essays, CV, video submission, reference letters.
  • ✅ Eligibility Criteria:
    • Under 40 years by Jan 1, 2026
    • Strong record in Asia Foundation’s fields of expertise
    • English communication ability (no TOEFL required)
    • Able to attend all program activities and obtain US visa

Designation

Fellow (Asia Foundation Development Fellowship)

Research Area

  • Governance
  • Economic Development
  • Women’s Empowerment
  • Environmental Resilience
  • Education and Leadership
  • International Cooperation

Location

  • South Korea
  • United States

Eligibility/Qualification

  • Must be under 40 years of age by January 1, 2026.
  • Nationality: Resident nationals or citizens of selected countries in Asia and the Pacific, including but not limited to Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Japan, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
  • Demonstrated experience and accomplishments in fields aligned with The Asia Foundation’s areas of expertise.
  • Ability to communicate in English (formal English test results are not required).
  • Capacity to obtain a visa to enter the United States.
  • Commitment to participate in all program activities on designated dates.

Job Description

Fellows will engage in a comprehensive program designed to build their leadership abilities, foster professional networks, and provide exposure to significant development issues in the Asia-Pacific region. The fellowship includes workshops, discussions, and site visits to relevant organizations and institutions.

How to Apply

  1. Complete the online application form.
  2. Provide a CV and short essays.
  3. Submit a video on personal motivation and related objectives.
  4. Manage online submission of letters of reference.
  5. All application materials must be submitted through the official application platform.

Last Date to Apply

November 10, 2025

This is a competitive program, and early applications are encouraged.