Apply for the Asia Foundation Development Fellows 2026 program — a fully funded leadership and professional development initiative for emerging leaders under 40 from Asia and the Pacific. Gain executive coaching, leadership training, international exposure, and a USD 2,500 professional development grant.
Overview
The Asia Foundation Development Fellows 2026 program is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity designed to empower the next generation of leaders from Asia and the Pacific. The program brings together exceptional individuals under 40 who are committed to advancing social, economic, and political progress across the region.
Through leadership training, international study tours, executive coaching, and a professional development grant, the program offers fellows the tools to expand their impact, deepen their regional understanding, and grow their networks.
Applications open on September 23, 2025, and close on November 10, 2025.
About the Asia Foundation
Founded in 1954, The Asia Foundation (TAF) is a non-profit international development organization dedicated to improving lives across Asia and the Pacific. Through programs in governance, economic development, women’s empowerment, education, environmental resilience, and regional cooperation, the Foundation has supported thousands of emerging leaders and changemakers.
The Development Fellows program reflects The Asia Foundation’s seven-decade investment in nurturing talented professionals who are making a difference across diverse sectors.
Components of the Asia Foundation Development Fellows 2026
1. Leadership Training Program & Study Tour — Korea (April 19–25, 2026)
The first phase takes place in Korea and includes:
- Leadership workshops and executive coaching sessions
- Site visits with policymakers, innovators, and development experts
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving modules
- Sessions focused on personal wellness and resilience for leaders
Fellows will explore real-world development challenges across Asia, learning to apply leadership theories in practical contexts.
2. Leadership Dialogue & Exchange Program — United States (September 28–October 7, 2026)
The second phase offers global exposure and international collaboration through:
- Policy discussions with thought leaders and institutions in the U.S.
- Cross-cultural learning and networking
- Leadership and innovation modules designed to strengthen global perspectives
- Opportunities to connect with alumni and international mentors
This program segment expands fellows’ understanding of global governance, diplomacy, and social impact leadership.
3. Professional Development Award — USD 2,500
Each fellow receives a Professional Development Award of up to USD 2,500, which they can use to:
- Attend conferences, workshops, or specialized training
- Fund language study or professional certification
- Undertake short-term research or fieldwork projects
- Participate in regional development forums
This award enables fellows to create a personalized year-long plan aligned with their professional goals.
4. Executive Coaching and Mentorship
Fellows receive one-on-one executive coaching sessions and mentorship from experienced leaders across Asia and the Pacific. Mentors are matched based on professional interests and fields, ensuring meaningful guidance and support throughout the fellowship year.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Asia Foundation Development Fellows 2026, applicants must:
- Be under 40 years of age by January 1, 2026.
- Demonstrate professional experience in one or more of The Asia Foundation’s focus areas:
- Governance
- Economic development
- Women’s empowerment
- Environmental resilience
- Education and leadership
- International cooperation
- Be citizens or residents of one of the following countries:
Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pacific Islands, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam. - Be fluent in English (TOEFL is not required).
- Be available for all program components.
- Be able to obtain a U.S. visa for the fall session.
Selection Process and Timeline
The selection process is competitive and conducted in multiple stages:
- September 23 – November 10, 2025: Application period open.
- November 2025 – January 2026: Internal review by The Asia Foundation.
- January – February 2026: Final review and selection by the committee.
- March 2026: Official announcement of the selected fellows.
Fellows are chosen based on leadership potential, commitment to development, and the strength of their application materials.
Program Benefits
- Fully funded participation in training and travel programs in Korea and the United States.
- USD 2,500 professional development award for personalized learning and growth.
- Executive coaching and mentoring tailored to individual career goals.
- Global exposure and networking with international policymakers, innovators, and scholars.
- Lifelong membership in The Asia Foundation Fellows Alumni Network.
Application Process
- Visit the official website of The Asia Foundation Development Fellows program.
- Complete the online application form between September 23 and November 10, 2025.
- Prepare your documents, including:
- Updated CV or résumé
- Personal statement
- Professional references
- Proof of nationality/residency
- Submit the application before 11:59 p.m. EST on November 10, 2025.
- Wait for notification in early 2026 if shortlisted.
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Contact Information
For more details, visit the official website:
👉 The Asia Foundation Development Fellows
For inquiries, contact:
Email: development.fellows@asiafoundation.org
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the Asia Foundation Development Fellows program fully funded?
Yes. All travel, accommodation, and program expenses for the Korea and U.S. sessions are covered by The Asia Foundation.
2. What is the age limit for applicants?
Applicants must be under 40 years old by January 1, 2026.
3. Do I need to take an English language test to apply?
No. English fluency is required, but TOEFL or IELTS scores are not mandatory.
4. Can I apply if I live outside Asia and the Pacific?
Applicants must be resident nationals of eligible countries within Asia and the Pacific.
5. How many fellows are selected each year?
Typically, 12 to 18 fellows are chosen annually from a highly competitive pool of applicants.
6. Do fellows receive a salary or stipend?
Fellows do not receive a monthly salary, but they are provided full funding for all program activities plus a USD 2,500 professional development grant.
7. What does the professional development grant cover?
It can be used for training, research, short courses, or travel related to leadership or professional growth.
8. Is there an interview process?
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for an interview or additional information during the review phase.
9. Can I apply again if not selected?
Yes. Applicants who were not selected in previous years are welcome to reapply.
10. When does the 2026 fellowship officially begin?
The fellowship year begins in January 2026, with the first in-person session in April 2026.
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