The Maurice R. Greenberg World Fellows Program aims to empower exceptional individuals from around the world and from diverse disciplines to enhance their capacity to create positive change globally.
Each year, a select group of World Fellows is chosen to spend four months in an intensive residential program at Yale University, where they engage in intellectual activities, workshops, and professional networking opportunities designed to strengthen their leadership skills and broaden their perspectives.
About the Program
Established in 2002, the program is part of the Yale International Leadership Center and is administered within the Jackson School of Global Affairs.
It now has a global network of over 400 Fellows from 96 countries who work in various fields to serve their communities, while remaining connected to Yale and to one another.
The program runs for four months (from mid-August to mid-December) and requires full-time, in-residence participation on Yale’s campus in New Haven, USA.
Program Goals and Key Components
The program seeks to foster both personal and professional growth among Fellows, enabling them to exchange knowledge and experiences with one another and with the Yale community.
It includes the following core components:
- Good Society Seminar
Fellows present to one another their vision for building a better world, how their work serves their communities, and how it contributes to the creation of a “good society.” - The Salon
Fellows host distinguished guests to discuss key issues that expand their understanding and challenge their ideas. - Personal and Professional Development
Fellows receive individual and group coaching in leadership and skills development. They can audit any of over 2,000 courses offered at Yale and engage in independent or collaborative research projects. - Academic and Public Engagement
Fellows participate in discussions, panels, and lectures across the university, sharing their expertise with Yale students and faculty. - Mentorship
Fellows mentor Yale students known as “Liaisons,” who assist them in organizing events and integrating into campus life. - Networking
The program offers Fellows the opportunity to expand their global networks by connecting with peers in their cohort and with alumni worldwide, as well as with Yale faculty and students.
Fellowship Benefits
- Ataxable monthly stipendto cover living expenses in New Haven.
- Fully furnished housing(one or two-bedroom apartment) for the duration of the program.
- Comprehensive health insurance.
- Round-trip travelfrom the Fellow’s home country to the United States.
Who Can Apply?
- Open to applicants ofall nationalities except U.S. citizens.
(Applicants with dual U.S. citizenship are eligible, but preference is given to those whose work focuses outside the United States.) - Applicants should have5 to 25 years of professional experience, with a record of significant achievements at the regional, national, or international level.
- There isno minimum or maximum age limit, though the average age of Fellows is39 years.
- Applicants must befluent in English, as the entire program is conducted in English.
- Fellows must commit tofull-time residenceat Yale University for the duration of the program (mid-August to mid-December).
Selection Criteria
Applicants should demonstrate:
- A proven record of achievement and professional integrity.
- A strong commitment to serving the “good society” and creating a positive local or global impact.
- Leadership potential and ambition for future influence.
- Critical, creative, entrepreneurial, and strategic thinking skills.
- The capacity to benefit from the fellowship experience and contribute to Yale’s intellectual community.
- Commitment to full participation in program activities and mentoring students.
Required Documents
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 3 pages)
- Personal Statement (up to 600 words) outlining motivation, goals, and vision
- Three Letters of Recommendation
- A shortvideo introductionuploaded through the online system
How to Apply
The entire application process isconducted online, andno application feeis required.
Applicants must create an account throughthis Link, complete the online form, and upload all required documents and recommendation letters before the deadline.
Application Deadline:
📅December 3, 2025 at 1:00 PM (EST)