Applications are now open for the Asia Foundation Development Fellows 2027, a prestigious, fully funded international leadership fellowship for young professionals from Asia and the Pacific. Organized by The Asia Foundation, this year-long professional development program will bring together emerging leaders to strengthen their leadership abilities, expand their knowledge of regional development challenges, and build international professional networks. The fellowship includes leadership training, study tours, policy discussions, executive coaching, mentorship, and professional networking opportunities. Selected fellows will participate in two major in-person programs in Japan and the United States in 2027. More details are below.
Asia Foundation Development Fellows 2027 – Overview
- Host Organization: The Asia Foundation
- Program Location: Japan and the United States
- Spring Program: March 11–20, 2027, in Japan
- Fall Program: November 7–18, 2027, in the United States
- Duration: One year
- Deadline: December 1, 2026
Financial Benefits
The Program Covers:
- Airfares
- Local Transportation
- Coursework and Program Costs
- Lodging and Meals
- Visa Fees
- Health and accident insurance
- An award of up to USD 2,500 is made available to each selected fellow.
Program Structure
The fellowship consists of two major in-person programs:
1. Spring Leadership Training Program & Study Tour – Japan
- Dates: March 11–20, 2027
- Location: Japan
The spring program will feature interactive leadership training with executive coaches, site visits, discussions with development practitioners, policy leaders, and local innovators. Fellows will also participate in activities focused on leadership development, self-awareness, and professional growth.
2. Fall Leadership Dialogue & Exchange Program – USA
- Dates: November 7–18, 2027
- Location: United States
The fall program will continue the leadership development activities through seminars, policy discussions, professional meetings, and networking opportunities with regional and international leaders. Activities will take place in and around San Francisco, California.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Asia Foundation Development Fellows 2027, applicants must:
- Demonstrate a strong record of professional achievement and leadership potential.
- Have relevant experience and accomplishments connected to The Asia Foundation’s focus areas and programs.
- Demonstrate outstanding personal character and integrity.
- Be respected and committed leaders in their professional fields and communities.
- Be under 40 years of age by January 1, 2027.
- Have a good command of English. TOEFL examination results are not required.
- Be available to participate in all fellowship components on the specified dates.
- Be able to secure a visa for travel to the United States.
- Be a resident national or citizen of one of the eligible countries or regions.
Eligible Countries
The fellowship is open to applicants from the following countries and regions:
Afghanistan (only applicants based in the United States), Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Laos (only applicants based in the United States), Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar (only applicants based in the United States), Nepal, Pacific Islands Nations, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam.
How to Apply for the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2027?
Interested applicants can apply online through the official application portal. Visit The Asia Foundation’s website, review the eligibility requirements, and complete the application form before the deadline.
Apply: https://asiafoundation.org/the-asia-foundation-opens-applications-for-2027-development-fellows/
To apply for this job please visit asiafoundation.org.
