Fully Funded: Echidna Global Scholar Program in USA

The applications are now open for the Echidna Global Scholar Program 2026. The Echidna Global Scholar Program is a Visiting Fellowship Program hosted by the Center for Universal Education (CUE) at the Brookings Institution in Washington, DC. The Total Duration of the Program is six months. Participants will work for 2 months in their home country and the rest of 4 months in Washington, DC. The Echidna Global Scholar Program aims to strengthen the capacity of leaders, especially from developing countries, to improve their skills and knowledge on advancing gender equality in and through education across the Global South. During the fellowship, the selected fellows will conduct individual research on ways to improve education and life for girls, young women, and people who don’t identify as male or female, and gain a deep understanding of gender and global education issues. It is a Fully Funded Fellowship in the USA with all Expenses covered. More details are below.

Details About Echidna Global Scholar Program 2026

• Host Country: USA
• Location: Brookings Institution in Washington, DC.
• Duration: 6 Months (4 Months in USA)
• Hostedby: Center for Universal Education (CUE)
• Benefits: Fully Funded
• Deadline: 15th December 2025

Financial Benefits

This is a Fully Funded Short-term Fellowship for 4 Months in the USA, not a full-time Position. The Echidna Global Fellowship covers:

• Stipend (subject to US taxes)
• Visa Costs: Covered
• Housing: Single-occupancy housing for 4 months
• Travel: Round-trip travel expenses
• Health Insurance: Limited health insurance plan.

Responsibilities

• Pre-Residency (2 months): Scholars work remotely from their home countries.
• Residency (4 months): Scholars live and work at The Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C.
• Research and Policy: Conduct in-depth research, write policy papers, and present findings at Brookings events.
• Capacity Building: Participate in leadership development programs and other capacity-building activities.
• Post-Residency Project: Develop a project to continue their research and impact upon returning home.
• Professional Networking: Engage with Brookings scholars, policymakers, and the broader global development community.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants from across the geographic Global South region can apply.
• Applicants should have a background in education, gender, women’s studies, international development, public policy, economics, or a related social sciences or humanities area.
• A minimum of 10 years of professional experience is required.
• Passion for improving education and life outcomes for girls, young women, and gender non-conforming individuals.
• The Program selects professionals with substantial experience in the Global South.
• A Master’s degree is required. 
• Applicants who haven’t previously focused on gender equality and education are encouraged to apply. They should explain how they plan to incorporate this focus into their future work.

How to Apply for the Echidna Global Scholar Program 2026?

The application process is online. Please read the detailed information on the official website before you apply. The Official link is below.

USE THIS LINK TO APPLY