Luce Scholars Program

About this scholarship

The Luce Scholars Program is a fully funded, 13-month leadership fellowship that gives emerging U.S. professionals an immersive work and cultural experience in Asia. After orientation, scholars complete two months of intensive language training and then enter an individually arranged professional placement aligned with their interests. The Foundation funds language instruction, program travel, insurance, and a stipend calibrated to local housing and living costs, so scholars should not need personal savings to participate. Applicants may come from any field, including the arts, journalism, public health, science, engineering, business, law, public policy, and environmental work. They must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, at least 18, under age 33 when departing, and hold a bachelor’s degree by orientation. The program is intended for candidates with limited exposure to the placement country; detailed rules restrict recent extended residence in one or more Luce countries. The application includes personal, academic, and professional information, a 500-word personal statement, five short answers, a one-to-two-minute unedited video, and exactly two recommendations, at least one from a professional supervisor. Transcripts are no longer required. Reviewers emphasize leadership potential, intercultural competence, resilience, adaptability, maturity, humility, and service. The 2027–28 application and both recommendations are due September 8, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern.

Eligibility

• Be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident
• Be at least 18 and under age 33 when departing for Asia
• Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent before orientation begins
• Be a graduating senior, recent graduate, or young professional
• Meet the program’s limits on recent extended time in Luce placement countries
• Be able to complete the full 13-month program from orientation through the closing symposium
• Submit a personal statement, five short answers, and a one-to-two-minute video
• Provide exactly two recommendations, including at least one professional recommendation
• Submit every application component by September 8, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern