Free Fellowship in USA | 2025 is an exciting international leadership program funded by a grant from the Fred J. Hansen Foundation. The Hansen Leadership Institute aims to equip students with leadership tools to resolve conflicts and build a better future for their countries and around the world. For three weeks each July, applicants from around the world and the United States come together on the campus of the University of San Diego for this life-changing program. They join a family of Hansen alumni who continue to stay in close contact through a variety of media and social networks.
The primary goal of the Hansen Leadership Institute is to create an international community of young leaders who will use their summer experience as a foundation to form lasting friendships, acquire shared practical skills, and receive training to create a more peaceful future.
The Legacy Behind Hansen Fellowship
Fred J. Hansen, a Danish immigrant who arrived in the United States at the age of ten with only a fourth-grade education, transformed into a pioneering and successful entrepreneur. He overcame significant challenges to achieve great wealth and reshape the history of the San Diego region. Through his innovative spirit and determination, he helped make San Diego a renowned area for avocado farming and a wonderful place for families to thrive.
He improved water distribution for families and farmers, developed unique residential communities, and worked on expanding San Diego's freeway system. To this day, his legacy continues to impact and improve the lives of young people from around the world through his foundation's commitment to funding this fellowship.
Hansen Institute Fellowship | About the Program
- Host Country:United States
- Funded by:Fred J. Hansen Foundation
- Duration of Training:Three weeks
- Target Nationalities:All nationalities
- Application Deadline for International Students:11:30 PM Pacific Time on January 15, 2025
Fields of Study:
- Management
- Economics and Business
- Education
- Human Rights
- International Affairs
- Law
- Media, Marketing, and Public Relations
- Politics
- Community
Hansen Fellowship Benefits / Financial Support:
The Hansen Leadership Institute Fellowship is fully funded by the Fred J. Hansen Foundation.
- International travel tickets
- Accommodation
- All program costs
- Visa expenses
If selected, the only costs you will need to cover as a participant are related to obtaining a passport and personal expenses.
Eligibility Criteria:
To participate in the Hansen Institute, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:
For Non-U.S. Students (from conflict or socially unstable regions):
- Be a junior or senior undergraduate student, or a graduate student interested in fields related to international relations, diplomacy, international economic development, or related areas.
- Be between 20 and 26 years old at the start of the program.
- Must have demonstrated leadership abilities outside of the classroom in their community, home country, or region.
- An academic advisor must verify the candidate's English proficiency in writing.
- The candidate must have a valid international passport and, if necessary, a U.S. entry visa by the start of the program.
- Preference will be given to candidates who have not previously visited the United States.
What if I have visited the United States before?
Preference will be given to students who have not previously visited the United States, but all eligible students are encouraged to apply.
For U.S. Students (students from any university in the United States):
- Be a junior or senior undergraduate student, or a graduate student interested in fields related to international relations, diplomacy, international economic development, or related areas.
- Be between 20 and 26 years old at the start of the program.
- Must have demonstrated leadership abilities outside of the classroom in their community, home country, or region.
- Successful applicants must demonstrate their leadership abilities through work outside the classroom in community service, other public service, or in a non-governmental organization. A recommendation from such a group or organization is required.
Required Documents for the Hansen Institute 2025:
- Acceptance letter
- Financial statement
- Form DS-2019, issued by the University of San Diego
- SEVIS fee payment receipt
How to Apply ?
- Apply through the official institute website.
- Click on the "Apply" button.
- A link to the application portal will open.
- Create an account and fill in the required information.
- Upload the relevant documents.
- Complete the application form carefully and submit your application
