The Hansen Leadership Institute Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded summer program hosted by the Hansen Leadership Institute (HLI) at the University of San Diego, USA. Each year, HLI brings together talented young leaders from around the world to promote peacebuilding, conflict resolution, international cooperation, and ethical leadership. The 2026 session will take place from July 1–22, 2026, and it offers participants the chance to gain leadership training, global exposure, and lifelong connections.

This prestigious fellowship is funded by the Fred J. Hansen Foundation and covers all major expenses including airfare, accommodation, meals, and program costs. If you are a young leader aged 20–25 years, passionate about global change, and looking to expand your leadership journey, this is an exceptional opportunity.

About Hansen Leadership Institute (HLI)

The Hansen Leadership Institute, located at the University of San Diego, has been a globally recognized platform for leadership and peacebuilding since its inception. Its mission is to train future leaders to promote world peace, cooperation, and cross-cultural understanding.

The program is structured around three major pillars:
• Leadership Development – Equipping participants with ethical leadership skills, public speaking, and gender-sensitive leadership training.
• Mediation & Conflict Resolution – Practical training in negotiation, reconciliation, and peacebuilding strategies across cultural and political divides.
• International Cooperation – Building lifelong friendships and networks among participants from conflict-prone regions and beyond.

With its global alumni network, HLI continues to shape leaders who drive change in education, community service, governance, and international development.

Hansen Leadership Institute Scholarship 2026 Overview 

Feature	Details
Scholarship Name	Hansen Leadership Institute Scholarship 2026
Host Organization	Hansen Leadership Institute, University of San Diego
Type	Fully Funded Summer Fellowship
Program Dates	July 1–22, 2026
Eligibility	International & U.S. Students (20–25 years old)
Deadline (International Applicants)	January 15, 2026 (11:30 PM PT)
Deadline (U.S. Applicants)	March 15, 2026 (11:30 PM PT)
Benefits	Airfare, Accommodation, Meals, Training, Cultural Programs
Result Announcement	Early March 2026 (International applicants)

Scholarship Benefits

The Hansen Leadership Institute is fully funded by the Fred J. Hansen Foundation. Selected fellows will receive:

• Round-trip international airfare
• Free accommodation at the University of San Diego
• Meals throughout the program
• Visa support documents (DS-2019, SEVIS fee coverage, acceptance letters)
• Leadership, mediation, and international cooperation training
• Access to seminars, workshops, and cultural exchange activities
• Lifetime membership in the HLI alumni network

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following conditions:

For International Students:

1. Be aged 20–25 years on July 1, 2026.
2. Have completed at least one year of university/college at the time of application.
3. If not currently enrolled, applicants must be recent graduates (2024 or 2025).
4. Provide two recommendation letters:
   • One from an academic professor/adviser (with English proficiency verification).
   • One from an NGO or community organization.
5. Be able to attend the entire program from July 1–22, 2026.

For U.S. Students:

• Undergraduate students (20–25 years old) from accredited institutions are eligible to apply.

Application Process

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the Hansen Leadership Institute 2026:

• Step 1: Visit the official HLI website: Hansen Leadership Institute
• Step 2: Check eligibility requirements carefully.
• Step 3: Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, passport, and recommendation letters.
• Step 4: Complete the online application here: Apply Now
• Step 5: Submit two references — one academic and one from an NGO/community leader.
• Step 6: Submit before the deadline (January 15, 2026 for international / March 15, 2026 for U.S. applicants).
• Step 7: Await the results (international applicants will receive emails in early March).

Comparison with Similar Opportunities

Program	Location	Duration	Benefits	Age Limit
Hansen Leadership Institute	USA	3 weeks (July 2026)	Fully Funded (airfare, meals, accommodation)	20–25 years
Young Leaders Program – Yenching Academy	China	1 year	Tuition, accommodation, stipend	23–28 years
Global Peace Summit	Different countries	3–5 days	Partial/Fully funded, networking	18–35 years
Obama Foundation Scholars Program	USA	1 year	Tuition, living expenses, healthcare	25+ years
Mandela Washington Fellowship	USA	6 weeks	Fully funded (travel, stipend, training)	25–35 years

FAQs about Hansen Leadership Institute Scholarship 2026

1. Q1: Do I need to pay any application fee?
   No, there is no application fee for the Hansen Leadership Institute Scholarship 2026.
2. Q2: Can I apply if I am over 25?
   No, applicants must be between 20–25 years old on July 1, 2026.
3. Q3: Do I need to take TOEFL/IELTS for English proficiency?
   No standardized tests are required. Your academic referee will verify your English proficiency.
4. Q4: Can undergraduate students apply?
   Yes, undergraduate students who have completed at least one year of university can apply.
5. Q5: Is the scholarship open for all nationalities?
   Yes, both U.S. and international students are eligible.
6. Q6: Can I arrive late or leave early?
   No, all fellows must attend the program from July 1–22, 2026 without exceptions.
7. Q7: Does HLI cover visa expenses?
   Yes, HLI provides DS-2019, SEVIS fee coverage, and acceptance documents to support your visa.
8. Q8: How competitive is the program?
   Yes, it is highly competitive. Your selection depends on your leadership qualities, academics, and commitment to peacebuilding.
9. Q9: Will I receive a certificate after completion?
   Yes, participants will receive a certificate and join the Hansen Fellows alumni network.
10. Q10: When will I get the results?
    International applicants will be notified by email in early March 2026.

Important Notes

• Request recommendation letters as early as possible to give referees time.
• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond July 2026.
• Prepare strong essays highlighting your leadership experience and community work.

The Hansen Leadership Institute Scholarship 2026 is more than just a summer program — it is a gateway to leadership, peacebuilding, and lifelong international connections. If you aspire to be a global leader, start your application today. APPLY NOW. For full details, visit the official scholarship page of Hansen Leadership Institute.

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