Maurice R. Greenberg World Fellows Program 2027

The Yale University Maurice R. Greenberg World Fellows Program is accepting applications for its 2027 cohort. The four month, full time residential fellowship brings accomplished professionals and emerging leaders from around the world to Yale University for an intensive period of leadership development, intellectual exchange, professional growth and global networking.

Hosted by the International Leadership Center within the Jackson School of Global Affairs, the programme is designed for individuals who have already demonstrated significant professional achievement and leadership potential. Fellows come from diverse countries, professional backgrounds and sectors, creating an international community focused on sharing knowledge and contributing to positive change.

About the World Fellows Program

The Maurice R. Greenberg World Fellows Program was established in 2002 and is housed within Yale’s International Leadership Center at the Jackson School of Global Affairs. The programme has developed a global alumni network of more than 450 World Fellows working across more than 100 countries.

During the fellowship, participants engage with Yale faculty, students and other international leaders. The programme combines professional development, academic engagement and leadership activities rather than awarding an academic degree.

Fellows participate in weekly seminars where they discuss their professional work, ideas and perspectives on building a better society. They also take part in salon discussions with distinguished guests and explore major global issues.

Participants receive individual and group coaching, skills development training and opportunities to audit many of Yale’s more than 2,000 courses. Fellows may also conduct independent research and work on individual or collaborative projects.

Another important part of the programme is engagement with the Yale community. Fellows give talks, participate in panels, share professional expertise with students and faculty, and mentor Yale students through the Student Liaison Program. These activities allow Fellows to contribute their perspectives while expanding their own international networks.

Fellowship Benefits

• Taxable living stipend to help cover living expenses in New Haven

• Furnished one or two bedroom apartment for the duration of the programme

• Medical insurance

• Round trip travel from the Fellow’s home country

• Individual and group coaching

• Skills development and leadership training

• Opportunity to audit many Yale University courses

• Opportunities for independent research and collaborative projects

• Opportunities to speak at Yale events and participate in panels

• Mentorship opportunities with Yale students

• Access to a global network of World Fellows

• Intellectual and professional engagement with Yale faculty, students and international leaders

Programme Areas

The World Fellows Program welcomes professionals and leaders from diverse disciplines and sectors. The programme does not restrict applicants to one particular academic or professional field.

Areas represented among World Fellows include:

• Global affairs

• International development

• Public policy

• Government and public service

• Business and entrepreneurship

• Technology and innovation

• Media and journalism

• Human rights

• Environment and climate

• Arts and culture

• Social impact and civil society

• Peace and international relations

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants should generally be between five and twenty five years into their professional careers

• Applicants must demonstrate significant professional accomplishments at a regional, national or international level

• Applicants must be citizens of a country other than the United States

• Dual United States citizens may apply, although strong preference is given to candidates whose professional work is focused outside the United States

• Applicants must be fluent in English

• Applicants must demonstrate a record of achievement and integrity

• Applicants should show meaningful commitment to positive impact at the local, national or international level

• Applicants should demonstrate potential for future leadership and global impact

• Applicants should possess strong critical, creative, entrepreneurial and strategic thinking abilities

• Applicants must be willing to participate fully in the programme

• Applicants must be able to remain in residence at Yale for the entire four month fellowship

• Full time students are not eligible

• Full time academics whose primary occupation is student or scholar are not eligible

There is no minimum or maximum age requirement. Yale states that the average age of a World Fellow is 39, while the programme is designed for professionals with an established record of achievement.

Selection Criteria

Applicants are assessed on their demonstrated achievements, integrity, commitment to positive impact and potential for future leadership. The selection process also considers the applicant’s capacity for critical, creative, entrepreneurial and strategic thinking.

The programme looks for individuals who can both benefit from the fellowship and contribute meaningful perspectives to Yale’s international community. Commitment to the demanding programme schedule, full time residence, mentoring and regular participation in campus activities is also considered.

Required Application Materials

• Résumé or curriculum vitae of no more than three pages

• Personal statement of no more than 600 words

• Three letters of recommendation

• Brief video statement recorded through the online application platform

• US$20 application fee

Applicants can create an online account and work on their applications before submission. Recommendation requests are also managed through the online application system.

How to Apply

1. Review the official World Fellows Program information and eligibility requirements.
2. Create an account through the Yale World Fellows online application platform.
3. Prepare an updated résumé or curriculum vitae of no more than three pages.
4. Write a personal statement of no more than 600 words explaining your professional journey, achievements, leadership experience, impact and reasons for joining the programme.
5. Identify three professional recommenders who can provide meaningful assessments of your career development, achievements, character and leadership potential.
6. Submit the required brief video statement directly through the online application platform.
7. Pay the US$20 application fee.
8. Review the complete application carefully and submit it before the deadline.
9. Ensure that your recommenders submit their letters by the application deadline.
10. Be prepared to commit to full time residence at Yale University in New Haven from mid August through mid December 2027 if selected.