The Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2027 is inviting applications from outstanding young professionals and emerging leaders across Asia and the Pacific for its flagship leadership development programme. The year-long fellowship is designed for individuals under the age of 40 who have demonstrated professional achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to creating meaningful change in their fields and communities.
Complete guide to the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2027, covering programme components, eligibility criteria, eligible countries, benefits and funding, selection process, important dates, and the application process.
Quick Highlights of the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2027
Parameter
Details
Organization
The Asia Foundation
Position
Development Fellow (2027 cohort)
Job Type
Year-long leadership fellowship
Location
Japan (March 11–20, 2027) and San Francisco, California, United States (November 7–18, 2027)
Eligibility
Under 40 as of January 1, 2027; eligible national/resident of listed Asia-Pacific country or region; record of high achievement; experience related to The Asia Foundation's focus areas; English proficiency
Experience Required
Demonstrable record of high achievement and proven accomplishments related to The Asia Foundation's focus areas and programmes
Sector
Leadership development and international development
Preferred Applicants
Public servants, entrepreneurs, journalists, lawyers, researchers, academics, civil society and community leaders, and other emerging professionals
The Asia Foundation is an organisation with seven decades of experience working across the region, operating in 20 countries and running programmes that address a wide range of development challenges. Its Development Fellows initiative, established in 2014, has built a network of 142 fellows from 25 countries.
Area
Details
Organisation
The Asia Foundation
Programme
Development Fellows Program (flagship leadership development initiative)
Established
2014
Regional Experience
Seven decades of experience working across the region
Country Presence
Works across 20 countries
Alumni Network
142 fellows from 25 countries since 2014
Alumni Professions
Public servants, entrepreneurs, journalists, lawyers, researchers, and civil society leaders
2027 Cohort Size
10 emerging leaders
2026 Cohort Competition
Selected from more than 1,900 applicants
Objectives of the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2027
Objective
Details
Strengthening Leadership Skills
Help emerging professionals become more effective, thoughtful, and inspirational leaders through leadership training, executive coaching, seminars, and practical learning activities
Deepening Understanding of Development Challenges
Examine critical development issues affecting Asia and the Pacific through discussions with practitioners, policymakers, development thinkers, and local innovators
Supporting Professional Advancement
Help participants advance in their chosen fields through a professional development award, coaching, mentorship, and exposure to experienced leaders
Building a Regional and International Leadership Network
Connect participants with fellow leaders, practitioners, policymakers, innovators, and mentors to encourage knowledge exchange and lasting professional relationships
Encouraging Meaningful Change Across Communities
Support individuals whose professional work and leadership can contribute to positive change in their fields and communities
Key Responsibilities and Programme Components
Spring 2027: Leadership Training Program and Study Tour in Japan
Responsibility
Details
Dates
March 11–20, 2027
Location
Japan
Intensive Leadership Training
Leadership training modules facilitated with the involvement of executive coaches, helping fellows reflect on their leadership approaches and strengthen their ability to lead effectively
Site Visits
Engagement with development practitioners, recognised policy leaders, thinkers, and local innovators
Short Assignments
Practical learning assignments that encourage active engagement with the learning experience
Self-Care and Wellness
Sessions exploring the importance of personal well-being in effective leadership
Perennial Gathering
For the first time, the Japan programme will overlap with the Perennial Gathering, a global invitation-based convening for leaders exploring the deeper work behind meaningful change
Fall 2027: Leadership Dialogue and Exchange Program in the United States
Responsibility
Details
Dates
November 7–18, 2027
Location
San Francisco, California, United States
Leadership Training
Further leadership training and professional development sessions building on the spring component
Seminars and Discussions
Seminars and discussions with regional leaders
Policy Conversations
Policy-related conversations and knowledge exchange
Professional Learning
Opportunities to learn from professionals working on development challenges
Unique Activities
Unique leadership development activities organised in and around San Francisco, California
Professional Development Award
Component
Details
Award Amount
Up to US$2,500 for each fellow
Purpose
Support an individualised professional development plan based on career goals, professional interests, and areas where further development would be valuable
Conditions
The programme announcement does not provide a detailed breakdown of eligible expenditure or specify that the award is an unrestricted cash grant; applicants should consult official programme information for additional conditions
Coaching and Mentorship
Component
Details
Coaching
Coaching provided through The Asia Foundation's regional network
Mentorship
Mentorship opportunities informed by each fellow's professional background and interests
Intended Outcomes
Strengthen leadership and management capabilities, gain guidance from experienced practitioners, explore professional development opportunities, clarify career goals, and build professional relationships across sectors and countries
Alumni Network Access
Component
Details
Network Size
142 fellows from 25 countries since 2014
Alumni Fields
Public service and government, entrepreneurship and business, journalism and media, law and legal practice, research and academia, civil society and community development
Benefits
Knowledge exchange, collaboration, mentorship, and continued engagement with individuals addressing development challenges across the region
Employment During the Fellowship
Aspect
Details
Continued Employment
Fellows can remain in their current professional roles throughout the fellowship year
Participation Requirement
Applicants must be available and able to participate in all programme components on the specified dates; the announcement explicitly states there are no exceptions
Consideration
Candidates should consider their professional, personal, and travel commitments carefully before applying
Minimum Qualifications and Experience
Requirement
Details
Age
Under 40 years of age as of January 1, 2027 (applicants who have reached 40 by this date do not meet the requirement)
Nationality/Residency
Eligible resident national or citizen of one of the listed countries and regions
Professional Achievement
Demonstrable record of high achievement in their professional field, with evidence of accomplishments and meaningful contributions
Relevant Experience
Experience and proven accomplishments related to The Asia Foundation's focus areas and programmes
Personal Character
Outstanding personal character and integrity, demonstrating professionalism, honesty, responsibility, and a commitment to ethical leadership
Leadership
Thoughtful, committed, respected, and inspirational leaders within their professional fields and larger communities
English Proficiency
Must be conversant in English; TOEFL examination results are not required
Availability
Must be available and able to participate in every programme component on the specified dates, with no exceptions
US Visa
Must be able to secure a visa to travel to the United States; the announcement does not provide a guarantee of visa approval
Additional Skills That Strengthen an Application
Skill
Details
Clear Communication of Achievements
Present professional accomplishments clearly, with evidence of contributions to the chosen field
Demonstrated Leadership
Show how leadership has been exercised within organisations, professional networks, or communities
Development Relevance
Show how professional work connects with The Asia Foundation's focus areas and programmes
Integrity and Professional Values
Demonstrate the personal qualities expected of responsible leaders
Commitment to Full Participation
Confirm ability to participate in all scheduled components, including activities in Japan and the United States
Visa Readiness
Consider the US visa requirement and ability to travel for the November 2027 programme
Impact-Focused Narrative
Communicate actual contributions, challenges addressed, results of work, and potential for future impact, rather than only job titles and responsibilities
Who Should Apply
Background
Details
Public Servants and Government Professionals
Yes — may bring practical experience of public institutions, policymaking, governance, and development administration
Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders
Yes — work contributing to economic activity, innovation, and positive change in communities
Journalists and Media Professionals
Yes — with a record of achievement in their fields
Lawyers and Legal Professionals
Yes — with demonstrated leadership and meaningful contributions
Researchers and Academics
Yes — with required professional achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to development
Civil Society and Community Leaders
Yes — with a record of commitment, leadership, and contribution to communities
Other Emerging Professionals
Yes — qualified individuals from different fields who demonstrate outstanding potential for professional advancement and significant impact
Highly Competitive Applicants
Priority consideration for those demonstrating quality of professional experience, leadership achievements, and potential for future impact
Salary and Employment Benefits
Detail
Information
Salary
Not specified (fellows remain in their current employment)
Professional Development Award
Up to US$2,500 per fellow to support an individualised professional development plan
Leadership Training
Intensive leadership training with executive coaches in Japan
Study Tour
Study tour in Japan with site visits to development practitioners and local innovators
US Exchange Program
Leadership Dialogue and Exchange Program in San Francisco, California
Coaching and Mentorship
Coaching and mentorship through The Asia Foundation's regional network
Perennial Gathering
Opportunity to participate in the Perennial Gathering convening in Japan
Alumni Network
Access to a network of 142 fellows from 25 countries
Continued Employment
Fellows can continue their existing professional roles during the fellowship year
Eligible Countries and Regions
Location
Details
Afghanistan
Only applicants already based in the United States
Bangladesh
Eligible
Bhutan
Eligible
Cambodia
Eligible
India
Eligible
Indonesia
Eligible
Japan
Eligible
Korea
Eligible
Laos
Only applicants already based in the United States
Malaysia
Eligible
Maldives
Eligible
Mongolia
Eligible
Myanmar
Only applicants already based in the United States
Nepal
Eligible
Pacific Islands Nations
Eligible
Pakistan
Eligible
Philippines
Eligible
Singapore
Eligible
Sri Lanka
Eligible
Thailand
Eligible
Timor-Leste
Eligible
Vietnam
Eligible
Application Requirements and Selection Considerations
Requirement
Details
Professional Achievements
Clearly communicate professional accomplishments and provide evidence of contributions to the chosen field
Leadership Experience and Potential
Demonstrate leadership within organisations, professional networks, or communities and explain how the fellowship could strengthen capacity to contribute to meaningful change
Experience Related to Development
Show how professional work connects with The Asia Foundation's focus areas and programmes
Personal Character and Integrity
Demonstrate the professional values and personal qualities expected of responsible leaders
Commitment to the Full Programme
Confirm ability to participate in all scheduled programme components, including activities in Japan and the United States
Visa Readiness
Consider the US visa requirement and ability to travel for the November 2027 programme
Full Document List
The announcement does not provide a complete list of application documents; applicants should consult the official application portal for current submission requirements
Selection Process and Competition Level
Aspect
Details
Selection Basis
Eligibility and selection criteria covering achievement, relevant experience, character, leadership, age, English proficiency, availability, and visa readiness
2027 Cohort Size
10 emerging leaders
2026 Cohort Competition
Selected from more than 1,900 applicants
Competition Level
Highly competitive; meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection
Status Inquiries
The Foundation cannot respond to individual inquiries regarding application status; applicants should refer to official programme communications
Strong Application Tip
Go beyond listing job titles and responsibilities; communicate contributions, challenges addressed, results, and leadership demonstrated
Important Dates
Programme Milestone
Date
Application Deadline
December 1, 2026
Announcement of Selected 2027 Cohort
Early February 2027
Spring Leadership Training and Study Tour in Japan
March 11–20, 2027
Fall Leadership Dialogue and Exchange in the United States
November 7–18, 2027
How to Apply
Step
Action
1
Visit the official programme announcement and review the programme details, eligibility criteria, selection requirements, and schedule
2
Confirm your eligibility, including the age requirement, eligible country or residency conditions, professional background, English-language requirement, and availability for all programme components
3
Prepare your application by following the instructions provided through the official application portal and ensuring all requested information is accurate and complete
4
Demonstrate your professional achievements by clearly presenting your record of accomplishment, leadership experience, and contributions to your field and community
5
Review your availability and ensure you can participate in the Japan and United States programme components on the specified dates
6
Submit before the deadline by completing the application process by December 1, 2026
7
Use the official Apply Here link on The Asia Foundation's announcement page to access the application form
Q1. What is the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2027?
It is a year-long flagship leadership development programme for outstanding young professionals and emerging leaders across Asia and the Pacific, organised by The Asia Foundation.
Q2. How many fellows will be selected for the 2027 cohort?
A total of 10 emerging leaders will be selected for the 2027 cohort.
Q3. What is the application deadline?
Applications close on December 1, 2026.
Q4. What is the age requirement?
Applicants must be under 40 years of age as of January 1, 2027.
Q5. Is TOEFL required?
No. The announcement states that TOEFL examination results are not required, though applicants must be conversant in English.
Q6. What does the fellowship include?
It includes leadership training and a study tour in Japan (March 11–20, 2027), a Leadership Dialogue and Exchange Program in San Francisco, California (November 7–18, 2027), a professional development award of up to US$2,500, and coaching and mentorship.
Q7. Can fellows continue working during the fellowship?
Yes. Fellows can remain in their current professional roles, but they must participate in all programme components on the specified dates, with no exceptions.
Q8. Who is eligible to apply?
Eligible resident nationals or citizens of the listed Asia-Pacific countries and regions who meet the age, achievement, experience, character, language, availability, and visa requirements. Applicants from Afghanistan, Laos, and Myanmar must already be based in the United States.
Q9. When will the selected cohort be announced?
The selected 2027 cohort will be announced in early February 2027.
Q10. Can applicants inquire about their application status?
No. The Foundation cannot respond to individual inquiries regarding application status; applicants should refer to official programme communications.
Final Call-to-Action
Step
Action
1
Review the eligibility criteria carefully before applying
2
Confirm you will be under 40 as of January 1, 2027 and meet the nationality or residency requirements
3
Prepare a strong application demonstrating your professional achievements, leadership, and commitment to development
4
Submit your application through the Apply Here portal by December 1, 2026
Career Expert & Researcher. Dedicated to bringing you the most authentic and verified updates on global scholarships, internships, and career opportunities to help you stay ahead.
We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized ads, and analyze our traffic. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to our use of cookies.
Read our privacy policy.
