The Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2026 is now accepting applications. This is an exciting, fully funded program that covers all expenses, including airfare, accommodation, a stipend, visa costs, local transportation, and health insurance. Fellows will spend 10 days in Korea and 10 days in the United States. The Program aims to enhance participants’ leadership skills, knowledge of Asia-Pacific development, professional networks, and international exposure. The program is open to applicants under the age of 40, including those with Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees, as well as professionals with relevant experience. Work experience is not required, and there is no formal English test requirement. More details are below.
Details About the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2026
- Host Countries: USA, South Korea
- Duration: 10 Days in Each Country
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 10 November 2025
Financial Benefits
The Program Covers:
- Airfares
- Local Transportation
- Coursework and Program Costs
- Lodging and Meals
- Visa Fees
- Health and accident insurance
- Fellows also receive a Professional Development Award of up to US$5,000 to support their personalized professional development plan.
Objectives of the Fellowship
The Asia Foundation Development Fellows program is for talented people under 40 from Asia and the Pacific.
It’s a diverse learning program that helps them improve their leadership skills, learn more about Asia-Pacific development, build their professional networks, and gain international experience.
Fellowship Dates
- Spring 2026: Leadership Training Program & Study Tour Korea, April 19 to 25, 2026.
- Spring 2026: Leadership Training Program & Study Tour Korea, April 19 to 25, 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age:Â You must be under years old by January 1, 2026.
- Experience & Accomplishment: You should have a proven track record of work or achievement related to The Asia Foundation’s key areas:
- Governance
- Economic development
- Women’s empowerment
- Environmental resilience
- Education and leadership
- International cooperation
- Leadership Qualities:Â You must be a thoughtful, committed, respected, and inspirational leader within your profession and community.
- English Ability: You must be comfortable conversing in English (a formal test like TOEFL is not required).
- Availability: You must be available to fully participate in all program components on the specified dates.
- Visa:Â You must be able to secure a visa for travel to the United States.
- Nationality/Residency:Â You must be a resident national or citizen of one of the following countries/regions: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pacific Islands, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam.
Required Documents
- Written submission/ short essays
- CV (Supplementary materials)
- Video submission
- (2) Letters of reference (managed online)
How to Apply for the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2026?
Candidates have to apply online from the official website. The Link is below.