Asia Foundation Development Fellows

Leadership

USA, South Korea

October 1, 2025

Leadership

Application deadline closed.

Date Posted

October 1, 2025
Location:

USA, South Korea
Expiration date

November 10, 2025
Funding Type

Fully Funded
Level

Non-Degree
Language Requirement

Not required

Job Description

Asia Foundation Development Fellows (Fully Funded)

The Asia Foundation Development Fellows program is a prestigious leadership and professional development initiative designed for highly talented young leaders (under 40) from Asia and the Pacific. The program provides fellows with advanced leadership training, professional networking, mentorship, and international exposure through immersive study tours in Korea and the United States.

This program reflects The Asia Foundation’s seven-decade-long investment in nurturing future leaders committed to driving change across governance, economic development, women’s empowerment, education, environmental resilience, and international cooperation.

Key Details

Deadline: November 10, 2025 (11:59pm EST)
Host Countries: South Korea & United States
Level: Professional Leadership Program (Non-degree)
Funding: Fully Funded + USD 2,500 Professional Development Award
Apply via the official Asia Foundation platform.

Program Overview of Asia Foundation Development Fellows

1. Spring 2026: Leadership Training & Study Tour (Korea)

April 19 – 25, 2026

Fellows will engage in interactive leadership training modules with executive coaches.
Sessions include strategic thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, managing change, and innovative leadership approaches.
Site visits with policymakers, innovators, and development experts in Asia-Pacific.

2. Fall 2026: Leadership Dialogue & Exchange (United States)

September 28 – October 7, 2026

Advanced policy discussions, leadership development opportunities, and global networking.
Expands on the spring training to build international perspectives and collaboration.

Key Benefits

Professional Development Award – Up to USD 2,500 for personalized training, short courses, language study, regional workshops, or other career-enhancing activities.
Executive Coaching & Mentoring – One-on-one coaching sessions plus tailored mentorship support aligned with each fellow’s professional goals.
International Exposure – Study tours and exchanges in Korea and the USA, connecting with policymakers, innovators, and leaders across Asia-Pacific.
Networking – Join a global network of changemakers, professionals, and development leaders.

Eligibility Criteria Asia Foundation Development Fellows

Applicants must:

Be under 40 years of age by January 1, 2026.
Be a citizen or resident national of one of the eligible 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.
Demonstrate strong leadership and accomplishments in fields aligned with The Asia Foundation’s expertise (governance, economic development, women’s empowerment, environmental resilience, education, and international cooperation).
Be proficient in English (TOEFL not required).
Be able to participate in all program components.
Be eligible to obtain a US visa for program participation.

Selection Process & Timeline

Applications open: September 23 – November 10, 2025:
Asia Foundation internal review: Nov 2025 – Jan 2026:
Selection committee finalizes candidates: Jan – Feb 2026:
Fellowship officially begins: Spring 2026:
Apply via the official Asia Foundation platform.

Apply Now!

The program is highly competitive, and fellows are selected based on leadership potential, proven accomplishments, and commitment to Asia-Pacific development.