The Maurice R. Greenberg World Fellows Program at Yale University is now accepting applications for its 2026 cohort. This prestigious, fully funded international fellowship brings together exceptional mid-career leaders from around the world for a four-month residential program at Yale’s Jackson School of Global Affairs in New Haven, Connecticut.
The Maurice R. Greenberg World Fellows Program is a four-month, full-time residential program based out of Yale’s International Leadership Center and housed within the Jackson School of Global Affairs. The Program runs annually from mid-August to mid-December.
About the World Fellows Program
The World Fellows Program is Yale University’s flagship international leadership initiative. Each year, a select group of global leaders from government, business, civil society, media, and the arts are chosen to join a community of more than 400 alumni from over 90 countries.
Running annually from mid-August to mid-December, the program provides Fellows with the opportunity to expand their leadership capacity, engage with Yale’s academic and cultural community, and strengthen their international networks. Fellows actively contribute to Yale’s intellectual life by giving lectures, mentoring students, auditing courses, and collaborating with faculty and peers.
Fully Funded Benefits
The fellowship is fully funded and provides all the support necessary for Fellows to focus on professional and personal growth during their residency. Benefits include:
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A taxable stipend to cover living expenses in New Haven
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A furnished one- or two-bedroom apartment for the program duration
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Comprehensive medical insurance
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Round-trip travel from the Fellow’s home country
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Access to Yale’s 2,000+ courses and academic resources
In addition to financial coverage, Fellows receive leadership development coaching, opportunities for independent research, and countless chances to collaborate with thought leaders at Yale and beyond.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Be a citizen of a country other than the United States. Dual U.S. citizens are eligible, though preference is given to candidates whose work is based outside the U.S.
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Have 5–25 years of professional experience with demonstrated regional, national, or international impact.
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Be fluent in English, with strong written and spoken proficiency.
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Be available to live full-time in New Haven for the duration of the program (mid-August to mid-December 2026).
There is no minimum or maximum age limit, but the average age of a World Fellow is 39.
Selection Criteria
Ideal candidates will demonstrate:
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Extraordinary professional achievement and integrity
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A strong commitment to advancing the public good
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High potential for future global leadership and impact
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Evidence of entrepreneurial, creative, and strategic thinking
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The capacity to both contribute to and benefit from Yale’s diverse community
Application Process
Applications are completed entirely online and free of charge. Required materials include:
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A résumé or curriculum vitae (maximum three pages)
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A personal statement (maximum 600 words)
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Three letters of recommendation
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A brief video statement
Applicants may begin their application at any time before submitting it by the deadline. Status updates can be tracked via the application portal.
Click here to open the application
The application deadline is December 3, 2025 at 1:00 PM EST.
Submitted applicants may check their status here.
Questions not answered in the program’s FAQ section may be directed to applicant.worldfellows@yale.edu.
Nominate a Candidate
The program also invites nominations of exceptional leaders. Nominations are not required for an application, nor do they provide preference, but they help Yale identify high-potential candidates. Nominate a candidate here
Key Dates
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Application Deadline: December 3, 2025, at 1:00 PM EST
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Fellowship Period: Mid-August to mid-December 2026
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Location: Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
Why Apply
The Yale Maurice R. Greenberg World Fellows Program is more than a fellowship. It is a fully funded opportunity for mid-career professionals to reflect, grow, and join an influential network of leaders committed to positive global change.
Fellows leave Yale with expanded vision, enhanced leadership skills, and lifelong connections that strengthen their impact at local, national, and international levels.
How to Apply
Applications for the 2026 World Fellows Program are now open. Interested candidates must submit their applications online by December 3, 2025.
For more information and to begin your application, visit the official Yale World Fellows Program website.
