Applications are now open for the McCain Global Leaders Program (MGLP) 2026, a fully funded 12-month international leadership program designed to empower emerging and established leaders from around the world.
The program combines virtual leadership workshops with 25 days of in-person global travel across three countries, including Greece and Vietnam. Each year, only 25 outstanding leaders are selected, making MGLP one of the most competitive and prestigious global leadership programs available.
The McCain Global Leaders Program is open to applicants from all nationalities, requires no application fee, and covers all major expenses, including airfare, accommodation, visas, and living stipends.
The 2026 program theme is:
“Advancing Freedom, Defending Rights, Creating Opportunity” — with a strong regional and global focus on driving meaningful, sustainable change.
McCain Global Leaders Program (MGLP) 2026 – Key Details
- Host Countries: Three countries, including Greece and Vietnam
- Program Duration: 12 months
- Program Type: Fully Funded
- Number of Participants: 25 global leaders
- Application Deadline: 15 February 2026
Financial Benefits
The McCain Global Leaders Program 2026 covers:
- Monthly stipend to support living expenses
- Economy-class international airfare
- Hotel accommodation during in-person sessions
- Visa costs for all official program travel
Global & Regional Themes
Global Theme
Advancing Freedom, Defending Rights, Creating Opportunity
Regional Focus Areas
- Western Hemisphere: Building Partnerships and Advancing Migration Solutions
- Europe & Eurasia: Countering Authoritarianism through Freedom, Democracy, and Human Rights
- Africa & Middle East: From Protest to Policy — Strengthening Democracy for All
- Asia & Oceania: Creating Stability by Advancing Democracy and Freedom
Program Structure
The McCain Global Leaders Program runs from June 2026 to May 2027 and includes both virtual and in-person components.
In-Person Components (25 Days Total)
- Fall 2026 – Athens, Greece:
A 10-day immersive leadership experience, marking the program’s first in-person gathering. - Winter 2026/27 – Changemaker Tour:
A 5-day regional study tour hosted in one country per region. - Spring 2027 – Vietnam:
A 7-day Legacy Experience, focused on long-term impact and leadership outcomes.
Eligibility Criteria
The program is open to applicants from all countries.
Who Can Apply?
- Mid-career to senior-level professionals
- Minimum of 5 years of professional experience
- Applicants from all professional backgrounds
No Specific Restrictions
- No age limit
- No minimum educational qualification
- No requirement for a specific field or profession
How to Apply for the McCain Global Leaders Program 2026
Applications must be submitted online through the official McCain Institute website.
- Complete the online application form
- Submit all required information before 15 February 2026
- There is no application fee
Apply for the McCain Global Leaders Program (MGLP) 2026
Check other opportunities:
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International Healthcare Worker EOI Pool – Saskatchewan (Canada)
International AIDS Society AIDS 2026 Prevention Ambassador Fellowship (FBritish Council Women in STEM Scholarships 2026/27 (Fully Funded)
