Rotary Scholarships - Global Grants

Rotary clubs offer scholarships for secondary, undergraduate, or graduate study. The Rotary Foundation also offers scholarships for college graduates and professionals to study peace and conflict resolution or water and sanitation.

About:

Global grants support scholarships for graduate students studying abroad in one of the six areas of focus. Scholarships range from one to four years and therefore can include an entire degree program. Prospective scholars must show proof of admission to the chosen university before the grant will be approved. Scholars are expected to participate in club or district activities before, during, and after the scholarship.

Global grant scholarships are funded using cash and/or the District Designated Fund, matched by the World Fund. The global grant budget must total at least US$30,000, but a scholarship may be a component of a larger grant application — for example, a scholarship plus a humanitarian project.

Eligibility:

Prospective scholars must show proof of admission to the chosen university before the grant will be approved.

Global grant scholars are expected to participate in club or district activities before, during, and after the scholarship.

Criteria:

Global grant scholars must plan to pursue a career in an area of focus, and their graduate-level educational goals should support this career interest. Pursuing a career in an area of focus means the scholar has a long-term commitment to measurable, sustainable change. Candidate’s previous work or volunteer experience, academic program, and career plans should be strongly aligned. Additionally, candidates are interviewed for:

• Excellent leadership skills and potential
• A proven record of success in his or her academic field or vocation
• A commitment to community service
• Well-defined and realistic goals
• Concrete ideas for advancing within his or her chosen field
• Sincerity about maintaining a lifelong relationship with Rotary after the scholarship period

How to apply:

Districts and clubs may create their own application form, or they may use the sample application provided by the Foundation.

Deadline: 

Global grant scholarship applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year. Applications should be submitted at least three months before the scholar’s intended departure date to allow adequate time for Foundation review and processing.