About the Program

The Rotary Scholarship is sponsored by the Rotary Foundation to further international understanding and friendly relations among people of different countries. The program depends upon enthusiastic, responsible scholars who will talk about their experiences abroad. The scholarships provide for study abroad in one of the more than 160 countries and 34 geographical regions where Rotary clubs are located. Some 1,200 scholarships of various types are available from clubs worldwide. The value of each scholarship and local availability varies. Ambassadorial Scholarships are for one academic year abroad.

During their studies abroad, Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholars act as ambassadors of goodwill. Through appearances before Rotary clubs and districts, schools, civic organizations, and other forums, the scholars represent their homelands and improve international understanding.

Application Procedure

Spouses, children, and grandchildren of Rotarians are not eligible. Initial application is made through a local Rotary club, which endorses candidates to compete at the district level. District- endorsed applications are forwarded to the Rotary Foundation, which grants final approval. Individual clubs set the deadlines, which may vary from March to July (over a year in advance of the proposed study abroad). District-endorsed applications must be received to the office of Graduate and Undergraduate Fellowships by March.

Application Deadline

Rotary deadline is September.

See the Rotary Foundation website for more