Luce Scholars Program
The Luce Scholars Program provides early-career U.S. leaders with a year of immersive professional and cultural experience in Asia, including language training and tailored placements in a variety of fields.
Funder: Henry Luce Foundation
Due Dates: September 8, 2026 (Full application, including letters of recommendation, due by 5:00 p.m. Eastern)
Funding Amounts: 13-month fellowship; all expenses covered including language training, placement stipend, and travel; tailored to cost of living in host country
Summary: Yearlong immersive fellowship in Asia for early-career U.S. leaders to build intercultural skills, leadership, and professional experience.
Key Information: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents under age 33 with a bachelor’s degree by June 2027; late or incomplete applications are not accepted.
Description
The Luce Scholars Program is a competitive, yearlong leadership fellowship designed to provide emerging U.S. leaders with immersive professional experiences in Asia. Scholars undergo two months of intensive language training followed by an 11-month professional placement tailored to their interests and backgrounds. The program aims to deepen understanding between the United States and Asia by fostering cross-cultural competence, leadership development, and professional growth. Placements span a wide array of fields, including the arts, public health, journalism, STEM, law, environmental studies, and more, with individualized matching to host institutions in various Asian countries. The program emphasizes experiential learning, adaptability, and community engagement, preparing participants to become global leaders who bridge cultural and professional divides.
