Have you ever imagined spending a few life-changing months in Florence, Italy, working on policy ideas while surrounded by history, art, and world-class scholars? The EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026 is now open—and it is one of the most prestigious fully funded leadership programs in Europe.
Hosted at the European University Institute (EUI) through the Florence School of Transnational Governance (STG), this fellowship brings together talented mid-career professionals who are shaping public policy in their countries. Whether you work in politics, civil service, NGOs, academia, media, or international organizations, this fellowship offers a golden opportunity to step back from your daily routine and strengthen your leadership impact.
The best part?
👉 No English Test required.
👉 Fully funded package.
👉 Open to all nationalities, with no age limit.
👉 Only 20–25 fellows selected each year.
Below is everything you need to know before applying.
About the EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026
The Policy Leader Fellowship (PLF) is a professional leadership program designed for people already working in policy-related fields. The fellowship creates space for reflection, research, and innovation.
Fellows spend five or ten months in Florence where they can:
This program is ideal for policy experts, mid-level leaders, and professionals with strong hands-on experience who want to expand their influence and contribute to global solutions.
Program Details – EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026
📍 Host Country: Italy
📍 Location: Florence School of Transnational Governance (STG)
⏳ Duration: 5 or 10 months
💰 Funding: Fully Funded
🗓 Deadline: 23 January 2026
Fellowship Duration Options
Applicants can choose one of the two available options:
📌 Five-Month Fellowship
September 2025 – January 2026
📌 Ten-Month Fellowship
September 2025 – June 2026
You can select your preferred duration during the application process.
Financial Benefits – What the Fellowship Covers
The EUI Leaders Fellowship is fully funded, meaning you can live comfortably in Florence without worrying about financial stress. Selected fellows receive:
💶 Monthly Stipend – €2,500
To cover living costs in Florence.
🏡 Household Allowance – €300 per month
For additional home or living-related expenses.
👶 Child Allowance – €200 per dependent child
If you are relocating with children, this allowance helps with their expenses.
✈️ Travel Allowance – €1,200 total
Covers international travel, including:
This makes it one of the most generous fellowship packages in Europe.
Who Can Apply? – Eligibility Criteria
The EUI Leaders Fellowship is open to a broad and diverse pool of applicants. You qualify if you meet the following criteria:
🌍 Nationality
Open to all nationalities—you do NOT need to be an EU citizen.
🎓 Degree Requirements
👔 Professional Experience
📌 Areas of Professional Focus
Priority is given to applicants working on topics such as:
📅 No Age Limit
There is no upper or lower age restriction.
Required Documents
Prepare the following documents for your application:
📄 1. CV (Maximum 3 pages)
Summarize your professional experience clearly.
🧑💼 2. Short Bio (Up to 250 words)
A brief snapshot of your background and expertise.
📬 3. Two Reference Letters
Preferably from supervisors or professionals who know your work.
🎓 4. Highest Degree Certificate
Bachelor’s degree or higher.
📝 5. Motivation Letter (Up to 1,000 words)
Explain:
📘 6. Work Plan (Up to 2,500 words)
Describe the project you plan to work on during the fellowship.
📎 7. Optional Work Samples
Articles, reports, policy papers, or portfolios—if relevant.
Why You Should Apply – Key Advantages
The EUI Leaders Fellowship is not just a learning program—it is a career-transforming experience.
✨ Live in Florence, Italy
One of the most beautiful and historically rich cities in the world.
✨ Focus on Your Policy Project
Dedicated time to develop ideas that can impact your country or industry.
✨ Build a Global Network
Connect with policymakers, researchers, diplomats, think tanks, and media professionals.
✨ Zero Financial Burden
Stipends and allowances make the experience financially worry-free.
✨ Strengthen Your Leadership Profile
Gain international recognition and credibility.
What You Will Do During the Fellowship
Fellows participate in:
By the end, fellows typically produce:
How to Apply for the EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026
The application process is entirely online.
Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Visit the official application portal
Step 2: Create an account
Step 3: Upload all required documents
Step 4: Select your preferred fellowship duration
Step 5: Submit before the deadline: 23 January 2026
📌 Important:
Once you submit the application, you cannot edit or modify it, so double-check everything before submitting.
For more fully funded fellowships, explore the Fellowship Category on your website.
