Applications are now open for the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2027, a prestigious international leadership fellowship for emerging professionals from Asia and the Pacific.
Organised by The Asia Foundation, this year-long programme is designed to strengthen the leadership capacity of promising individuals working in development-related fields. Selected fellows will participate in leadership training, study tours, policy discussions, executive coaching, mentorship and professional networking activities.
The 2027 fellowship will feature two major in-person programmes: a spring leadership training and study tour in Japan, followed by a fall leadership dialogue and exchange programme in the United States.
The programme provides financial support covering major participation expenses, including international flights, accommodation, meals, local transportation, visa fees and insurance. Selected fellows will also have access to an award of up to USD 2,500.
Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2027 – Overview
- Host Organisation: The Asia Foundation
- Programme Locations: Japan and the United States
- Duration: One year
- Spring Programme: March 11–20, 2027, Japan
- Fall Programme: November 7–18, 2027, United States
- Funding: Fully funded
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2026
- Eligible Applicants: Nationals or residents of selected Asian and Pacific countries and regions
Financial Benefits
The Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program provides financial assistance to selected participants so they can take part in the fellowship activities.
The programme covers:
- International airfare.
- Local transportation.
- Programme coursework and participation expenses.
- Accommodation.
- Meals.
- Visa application fees.
- Health and accident insurance.
Additionally, each selected fellow will have access to an award of up to USD 2,500.
This financial support allows participants to concentrate on leadership development, professional learning and building international connections.
Programme Structure
The fellowship consists of two major in-person programmes held in different countries during 2027.
1. Spring Leadership Training Program and Study Tour – Japan
- Dates: March 11–20, 2027
- Location: Japan
The spring programme focuses on leadership development and professional growth. Fellows will participate in interactive training sessions facilitated by experienced executive coaches.
Activities will include:
- Leadership development workshops.
- Executive coaching and self-awareness exercises.
- Study tours and institutional visits.
- Discussions with development practitioners and policy leaders.
- Meetings with local innovators.
- Professional learning and networking activities.
Participants will gain insights into development challenges while strengthening their leadership and decision-making abilities.
2. Fall Leadership Dialogue and Exchange Program – USA
- Dates: November 7–18, 2027
- Location: San Francisco, California, and surrounding areas, United States.
The second programme continues the fellowship’s leadership development activities through seminars, policy discussions and professional exchanges.
Fellows will have opportunities to engage with regional and international leaders, participate in professional meetings and expand their networks.
The programme is designed to encourage collaboration, exchange of ideas and stronger connections among emerging leaders.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants interested in the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2027 must satisfy the following requirements:
- Demonstrate a strong record of professional achievement and leadership potential.
- Have relevant experience and accomplishments connected to The Asia Foundation’s focus areas and programmes.
- Demonstrate excellent personal character, integrity and commitment to their communities.
- Be respected leaders or emerging leaders in their professional fields.
- Be under 40 years of age as of January 1, 2027.
- Have a good command of English. TOEFL examination results are not required.
- Be available to participate in all fellowship activities on the scheduled dates.
- Be able to secure the necessary visa to travel to the United States.
- Be a national or resident of one of the eligible countries or regions.
Applicants should carefully review the programme’s country restrictions before starting their applications.
Eligible Countries and Regions
The fellowship is open to eligible applicants from the following Asian and Pacific 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.
- Vietnam.
Important: Applicants must meet the programme’s nationality or residency conditions. Being a national of a country outside this list does not qualify someone automatically, even if they have experience working in Asia or the Pacific.
How to Apply for the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2027
Interested candidates should apply online through The Asia Foundation’s official application platform.
Follow these steps:
- Visit The Asia Foundation’s official website.
- Read the Development Fellows Program information and confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements.
- Prepare your professional and personal information.
- Complete the online application form.
- Provide accurate information about your professional achievements, leadership experience and contributions to your community.
- Submit your application before the December 1, 2026 deadline.
Applicants should ensure they can attend both in-person programmes in Japan and the United States before applying.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
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