The International Peace Scholarship (IPS) 2026, offered by the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.), is a prestigious opportunity for women outside the U.S. and Canada to pursue graduate studies in North America. Established in 1949, this scholarship embodies the vision of empowering women leaders who will return to their home countries and contribute to peace, development, and global cooperation. With a maximum award of $12,500, IPS helps international women scholars overcome financial barriers while focusing on their higher education journey.

This scholarship is not just financial assistance—it is a commitment to global peacebuilding through education, supporting women leaders from around the world to grow academically and socially. If you’re passionate about making a difference in your home country, IPS 2026 is the ideal opportunity for you.

About Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.)

The Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.), founded in 1869, is a U.S.-based women’s organization dedicated to supporting women’s education worldwide. With over 6,000 local chapters and members across the U.S. and Canada, P.E.O. has provided millions of dollars in scholarships, grants, and loans to women pursuing higher education.

The IPS Fund, one of P.E.O.’s flagship initiatives, has funded thousands of women from developing and developed countries, fostering an international network of scholars who are committed to leadership, service, and peacebuilding. By awarding this scholarship, P.E.O. ensures that talented women have the opportunity to study in North America and later empower their communities globally.

International Peace Scholarship 2026 Overview 

Field	Details
Scholarship Name	International Peace Scholarship (IPS) 2026
Host Organization	Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.)
Study Level	Master’s and PhD (graduate studies)
Host Countries	United States & Canada
Eligible Applicants	Women from countries outside the U.S. and Canada
Scholarship Value	Up to $12,500 (need-based)
Application Start Date	September 15, 2025
Application Deadline (Eligibility Form)	December 15, 2025
Application Deadline (Materials)	February 1, 2026 – enrolled applicants March 15, 2026 – new applicants & Cottey College students
Notification of Results	May 2026
Acceptance Deadline	June 1, 2026
Program Duration	Academic year 2026–2027

Scholarship Benefits

The International Peace Scholarship (IPS) 2026 provides:

• Financial support of up to $12,500 per academic year (amount varies by demonstrated need).
• Coverage of tuition fees, research expenses, and living costs partially.
• Access to P.E.O.’s global women’s network for leadership and mentorship opportunities.
• A platform to study in top universities across the United States and Canada.
• Cultural exchange opportunities by studying in North America and later serving your home country.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must be a woman from outside the U.S. and Canada.
• Seeking an advanced degree at an accredited university in the U.S. or Canada.
• Must have a full year of coursework remaining and reside in the U.S./Canada for the entire academic year.
• Must demonstrate financial need but also show evidence of other financial resources (grants, family support, assistantships).
• Must intend to return to her home country to contribute toward peace and development.

Not Eligible:

1. U.S. or Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
2. Doctoral candidates who are only completing dissertations (without coursework).
3. Students pursuing online courses, internships, or research without coursework.

Application Process

Follow these steps to apply:

• Step 1: Submit Eligibility Form (between September 15 – December 15, 2025).
• Step 2: Receive confirmation from P.E.O. if eligible.
• Step 3: Prepare application materials, including academic transcripts, financial proof, and recommendation letters.
• Step 4: Submit completed application by:

1. February 1, 2026 (for already enrolled students).
2. March 15, 2026 (for new applicants & Cottey College students).

• Step 5: Wait for results (notification in May 2026).
• Step 6: Accept scholarship by June 1, 2026 if selected.

Comparison with Similar Scholarships

Scholarship	Eligibility	Coverage	Deadline
P.E.O. IPS 2026	Women outside U.S./Canada	Up to $12,500	Dec 15, 2025
AAUW International Fellowships	Women outside U.S.	$20,000–$50,000	Nov 15, 2025
Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future	Women in STEM PhD/Postdoc	Full tuition + stipend	Nov 2025
Margaret McNamara Education Grants	Women from developing countries	Up to $15,000	Jan 2026

FAQs About International Peace Scholarship 2026

1. What is the maximum funding available under IPS 2026?
   The maximum award is $12,500, but students may receive lesser amounts depending on their financial needs.
2. Can I apply if I’m only doing research or dissertation?
   No, the scholarship requires at least one full year of coursework.
3. Are online courses eligible for funding?
   No, scholarships are only granted for in-person, full-time graduate studies.
4. Do I need admission before applying?
   Yes, applicants should either be enrolled or accepted into a U.S./Canadian graduate program.
5. Can men apply for IPS?
   No, the scholarship is exclusively for women.
6. Do I have to return to my home country after graduation?
   Yes, this is a key requirement. The scholarship aims to support women leaders who contribute globally.
7. Does IPS cover full tuition?
   Not always. It is a need-based partial scholarship, and students must show other funding sources.
8. When will results be announced?
   Results will be released in May 2026.
9. Which universities are eligible under IPS?
   Any accredited graduate-level institution in the U.S. or Canada is eligible.
10. Can I reapply if I was not selected earlier?
    Yes, students can reapply in the following year if they still meet eligibility requirements.

If you are a passionate woman leader who wants to bring positive change to your community, don’t miss the International Peace Scholarship (IPS) 2026. Start your application process early, prepare your supporting documents, and secure funding to achieve your educational dreams in the U.S. or Canada. APPLY NOW. Please visit the official website to learn more.

Want more opportunities like this? Subscribe to our updates and explore scholarships, fellowships, and internships worldwide to unlock your future potential.