The University of Hawaii’s East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship is a prestigious, fully funded leadership fellowship open to emerging graduate students. This fellowship program builds on decades of success in bringing together Pacific Rim leaders, as alumni often become leaders in academia, government, and NGOs across the Asia-Pacific. As a global opportunity, it combines rigorous study at UH Manoa with immersive professional development and cultural exchange. Fellows become part of an international Asia-Pacific community committed to positive change and leadership development.
In addition to full tuition, the fellowship provides campus housing, health insurance, and monthly stipends for living expenses. Fellows participate in team-building retreats, internships, and workshops that strengthen leadership, communication, and research skills. This professional training prepares fellows for careers in international affairs and development across the Pacific region.
Fellowship Overview
The East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship is a partnership between the East-West Center (an education and research institute) and the University of Hawaii at Manoa (Honolulu, USA). It funds graduate study (master’s and doctoral) for students from Asia, the Pacific, and the U.S. Beyond financial support, the program’s goal is to foster cross-cultural leadership. Fellows live together at the East-West Center campus while earning their UH degree, participating in community-building and leadership programs.
Since its founding by the U.S. Congress in 1960, the Center has hosted scholars and students from around the Pacific Rim, creating an extensive network of alumni. The fellowship covers the full duration of the degree program (typically about 2 years for a master’s, or 4–5 years for a PhD).
Fellowship Details
- Country: USA (Honolulu, Hawaii)
- Host Organization: East-West Center at the University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Duration: Full length of your graduate program (2–5 years)
- Funding/Type: Fully funded graduate degree fellowship (covers tuition, fees, housing, and living costs)
- Fields of Study: Open to graduate programs in diverse disciplines, especially those related to Asia-Pacific development and international cooperation.
- Application Fee: No application fee is required for the fellowship.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates should meet these requirements:
- Citizenship: U.S. citizens or permanent residents, or citizens of an eligible Asia-Pacific country (including Russia).
- Education: A completed 4-year bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record (typically a minimum GPA of 3.0).
- Graduate Admission: You must apply to or be admitted into a graduate program at UH Mānoa before the fellowship begins.
- Regional Interest: Demonstrated commitment to the Asia-Pacific region through coursework, work experience, or community involvement.
- Language: Classes are taught in English; applicants generally need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores to prove proficiency.
Benefits & Funding
This fellowship provides comprehensive support:
- Tuition & Fees: 100% coverage for graduate tuition and mandatory fees at UH Manoa.
- Housing: Single-occupancy residence hall room at the East-West Center.
- Stipend & Insurance: Monthly living stipend (meals and incidentals) and a health insurance subsidy.
- Books & Research: An annual books stipend and competitive grants for field research or conference travel.
- Professional Development: Leadership workshops, mentorship, and cross-cultural training sessions.
- Global Community: Fellows interact with visiting scholars, diplomats, and professionals at the East-West Center, greatly expanding their international network.
- Networking: Access to a vibrant Asia-Pacific network – fellows build lifelong ties through cultural exchange and community service.
- Alumni Support: Fellows may be eligible for additional grants through the East-West Center Association and related foundations.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all criteria and gather transcripts, test scores, and other documents.
- Apply to UH Manoa: Submit an application to your chosen UH Manoa graduate program (UH Manoa Graduate Admissions).
- Complete Fellowship Application: Fill out the East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship form (EWC Fellowship Application) on the EWC website (no application fee).
- Submit Documents: Provide transcripts, recommendation letters, test scores, and a personal statement emphasizing your Asia-Pacific goals.
- Highlight Leadership: Showcase leadership roles, group projects, or international experience in your essays and references.
- Send by Deadline: Submit your complete application by the deadline and await notification (selection is merit-based).
Application Deadline
The deadline for the 2026 fellowship cycle is December 1, 2025. Submit all application materials by this date.
Tips for Applicants
- Plan ahead: Start preparing your essays and gathering recommendations early.
- Tell your unique story: Explain how your academic or professional background aligns with Asia-Pacific development.
- Emphasize teamwork: The program values collaboration; mention any international or group experiences.
- Polish your application: Proofread carefully and consider mentor feedback on your essays.
- Reach out: Contact current or former fellows for advice on the application process.
- Highlight intercultural skills: Emphasize any study abroad, language skills, or international projects you have completed.
- Use available resources: Attend East-West Center information sessions or reach out to staff for any application guidance.
Conclusion
The University of Hawaii Graduate Degree Fellowship (East-West Center) is an unparalleled opportunity for ambitious students seeking a fully funded global leadership program. It provides full financial support and world-class professional training in an international environment. If you aspire to make a difference on a global scale, this fellowship can launch your career. Share this guide with fellow changemakers and start your application process now.
Apply now and take the first step toward becoming a global changemaker!
FAQs
What is the East-West Center Graduate Degree Fellowship?
A fully funded graduate (master’s/PhD) scholarship at UH Manoa, sponsored by the East-West Center, that covers tuition, fees, and living costs while focusing on Asia-Pacific leadership.
Who is eligible?
Applicants need a bachelor’s degree (GPA ≥3.0) and must be U.S. citizens/permanent residents or citizens of an eligible Asia-Pacific country (including Russia). Admission to a UH graduate program is required.
What benefits does the fellowship provide?
It covers 100% of tuition and fees, provides campus housing, health insurance, a stipend, and funding for books and travel. Fellows also participate in leadership training and cultural programs.
How long does the fellowship last?
It supports you for the full duration of your degree (roughly 2 years for a master’s or 4–5 years for a PhD).
When is the application deadline?
The deadline for the 2026 intake is December 1, 2025.
How do I apply?
You must apply to a UH Manoa graduate program and complete the East-West Center fellowship application by the deadline, submitting all required documents.
Can current UH Manoa students apply?
Yes. Graduate students already enrolled in a UH Manoa master’s or PhD program can apply for or renew the fellowship, as long as they meet all other criteria.
What fields of study are eligible?
You can apply under any UH graduate program. Common fields include social sciences, environmental science, public policy, communication, engineering, and Asian studies, especially if your work has an Asia-Pacific focus.
Is this fellowship only for full-time study?
Yes. You must be enrolled full-time in an eligible UH Mānoa graduate program to receive the fellowship.
Can the fellowship be renewed?
Yes, The award can be renewed annually as long as you maintain good academic standing and remain in your degree program.
