EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026 in USA | Fully Funded

Are you a passionate graduate from the Asia-Pacific region ready to advance your leadership and contribute to regional development? The EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026 at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa (UHM) is now open for applications! Offered by the East-West Center (EWC), this fully funded program supports Master’s and PhD students from eligible regions, covering tuition, housing, and more. With a focus on building an Asia-Pacific community through cultural exchange, internships, and leadership training, the fellowship prepares scholars for impactful careers. Don’t miss this chance to study in the USA and apply by December 1, 2025!

EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship
EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship

Overview of EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026

  • Host University: University of Hawai’i at Mānoa (UHM)
  • Funded By: East-West Center (EWC)
  • Country: USA
  • Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
  • Eligible Nationalities: Citizens or permanent residents of eligible Asia-Pacific regions (see list below)
  • Study Levels: Master’s and PhD
  • Number of Awards: Varies (up to 100 fellows annually across programs)
  • Program Duration: Varies by degree (typically 2 years for Master’s, 4–6 years for PhD)
  • Application Deadline: December 1, 2025

The EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026 fosters a diverse cohort of leaders committed to Asia-Pacific prosperity. By integrating academic excellence with community building, internships, and cultural activities, the program creates lifelong networks. Fellows reside in EWC dormitories, participate in team-building events, and engage in service-learning projects, embodying the Center’s mission of regional collaboration. At UHM, scholars access top programs in fields like international relations, sustainability, and public policy.

Eligible Regions

The EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026 is open to citizens or permanent residents of:

  • United States: All states and territories
  • Pacific Region: American Samoa, Australia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Guam, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Niue, Northern Marianas, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Wallis & Futuna Islands
  • Southeast Asia: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam
  • South Asia: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Iran, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
  • East Asia: China, Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, Mongolia, North Korea, South Korea, Russia, Taiwan

Full list on the EWC Fellowships Page.

Scholarship Benefits

The EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026 provides comprehensive support for the full degree duration:

  • Full Tuition and Fees: Coverage for Master’s or PhD studies at UHM.
  • Housing in EWC Dormitory: On-campus accommodation in a multicultural setting.
  • Books and Incidental Expenses Allowance: Funding for academic materials and daily needs.
  • Partial Meals Support: Contribution toward food costs.
  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage.
  • Field Study and Conference Funding: Competitive grants for research, presentations, and travel.
  • Leadership Development: Internships, workshops, and community service opportunities.
  • Cultural and Networking Events: Access to Asia-Pacific focused activities and global connections.

These benefits ensure fellows can focus on studies and regional impact.

Eligibility Criteria for EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026

To qualify for the EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Nationality/Residency: Citizen or permanent resident of eligible regions (see list above).
  • Academic Background: Hold a 4-year Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a U.S. or accredited foreign institution, with a minimum 3.0 GPA (or equivalent).
  • Academic Record: Strong performance and potential for graduate success.
  • English Proficiency: Proficiency required (TOEFL/IELTS if needed by UHM program).
  • Commitment to Region: Dedication to Asia-Pacific community building and leadership.
  • Admission Requirement: Secure admission to a UHM graduate program (apply separately).

The program prioritizes diverse, committed candidates fostering regional ties.

Required Documents

To apply for the EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026, submit the following:

  • Passport Biodata Page: If available (proof of nationality).
  • CV/Resume: Detailing education, experience, and leadership.
  • Proof of UHM Application: Confirmation of submission to a graduate program.
  • Official Academic Transcripts: From previous institutions.
  • IELTS or TOEFL Score: If required for English proficiency.
  • Three Letters of Reference: From academic or professional contacts.

Submit via the EWC Online Portal no application fee.

Application Timeline for EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026

  • UHM Graduate Application Opens: September 1, 2025
  • UHM Program Deadlines: Vary (typically December 2025–January 2026)
  • EWC Fellowship Deadline: December 1, 2025
  • Selection Process: January–March 2026
  • Notification of Results: April 2026
  • Program Start: August/September 2026

Apply to UHM first, then EWC.

How to Apply for EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026

The application for the EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026 requires two steps:

  1. Apply to UHM: Submit to your chosen graduate program via the UHM Graduate Division Portal by the program deadline.
  2. Apply to EWC: Once submitted, complete the EWC form via the EWC Fellowship Portal by December 1, 2025, uploading documents and references.
  3. Review and Submit: Double-check for completeness; no edits post-submission.
  4. Selection: EWC reviews based on academics, leadership, and regional commitment.
  5. Await Results: Offers announced in April 2026.

For details, visit the EWC Graduate Fellowships Page.

Why Choose the EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship?

The East-West Center, founded in 1960, bridges the U.S. and Asia-Pacific through education and dialogue. Here’s why this fellowship excels:

  • Regional Focus: Build Asia-Pacific ties through community service and cultural exchange.
  • UHM Excellence: Study at a top public university with strengths in sustainability and international studies.
  • Leadership Training: Internships, workshops, and projects for professional growth.
  • Diverse Community: Live and learn with fellows from 20+ countries.
  • Lifelong Network: Alumni connections for career and impact opportunities.

This program cultivates leaders for a connected world.

Additional Fellowships

Explore other international fellowships:

Tips for a Successful EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship Application

To increase your chances of securing the EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026, follow these tips:

  • Align with EWC Mission: Emphasize Asia-Pacific commitment in your CV and references.
  • Secure Strong UHM Admission: Apply to competitive programs with a 3.0+ GPA.
  • Highlight Leadership: Showcase extracurriculars and community involvement.
  • Apply Early: Meet UHM deadlines by November 2025.
  • Prepare References: Choose contacts who can attest to your regional potential.

Conclusion

The EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship 2026 is a transformative opportunity for Asia-Pacific graduates to pursue fully funded Master’s or PhD studies at UHM. With tuition, housing, stipends, and leadership training, this program builds a community of changemakers. Don’t miss your chance to foster regional ties and apply by December 1, 2025!

For more information or to apply, visit the EWC Graduate Fellowships Official Website and start your journey toward impactful leadership.