The Human Rights Advocates Program (HRAP) 2027–2028 in USA is a fully funded opportunity for human rights activists working with NGOs on issues like gender-based violence, minority rights, and environmental justice. This program at Columbia University provides training and support for advocates to enhance their impact. Participants are selected based on their work experience and commitment to human rights.
The Institute for the Study of Human Rights (ISHR) at Columbia University hosts this prestigious program. ISHR conducts a stringent selection process and secures funding for shortlisted advocates. The program covers tuition, travel, and living expenses, enabling advocates from low-income countries to attend without financial burden.
Human Rights Advocates Program Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Travel expenses to and from the program
- Living expenses during the program
- Access to Columbia University resources and faculty
- Networking with human rights advocates from around the world
Human Rights Advocates Program Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a human rights activist working with an NGO
- Work experience in human rights issues such as sexual and gender-based violence, minority rights, LGBTQI+ rights, labor rights, indigenous peoples’ rights, migration, health, social exclusion, environmental justice, disability rights, or corporate social accountability
- Full-time students, academics, or government officials will not be considered
- Applicants from high-income countries will not be considered except for those representing marginalized communities
- Fluency in English is required
- Preference given to those who have not previously had opportunities to travel and study internationally
- A bachelor’s degree is preferred but not required
- Must provide proof of institutional endorsement from their organization
- Must commit to returning to their organization upon completion of the program
How to Apply for Human Rights Advocates Program?
- Complete the entire application in English via the Google Form or PDF version
- Submit two signed letters of recommendation in English from individuals who can attest to your work as a human rights advocate
- Submit a signed letter from your supervisor stating support for your HRAP application (institutional letter of support)
- Upload a copy of your university diploma and/or transcript (highest degree)
- If your organization has external funding, obtain at least one letter from a donor
- Submit the application by October 15, 2026 at 11:59 pm Eastern Time
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the HRAP Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Human Rights Advocates Program (HRAP)?
The Human Rights Advocates Program (HRAP) is a fully funded program at Columbia University for human rights activists from grassroots NGOs. It provides training, travel, and living expenses for advocates to enhance their skills and impact.
Who can apply for the Human Rights Advocates Program (HRAP)?
Human rights activists working with NGOs on issues like gender-based violence, minority rights, LGBTQI+ rights, labor rights, indigenous peoples’ rights, migration, health, environmental justice, disability rights, or corporate social accountability are eligible.
What is the deadline for the Human Rights Advocates Program (HRAP)?
The deadline to submit your application is October 15, 2026 at 11:59 pm Eastern Time. Late applications will not be accepted.
Is the Human Rights Advocates Program (HRAP) fully funded?
Yes, the HRAP Scholarship is fully funded. It covers tuition, travel expenses, and living expenses for the duration of the program.
What documents are required for the HRAP application?
You need two signed letters of recommendation, a signed institutional letter of support from your supervisor, and a copy of your university diploma or transcript. All documents must be in English.
Can students or government officials apply for HRAP?
No, full-time students, academics, or government officials will not be considered. The program is designed for grassroots human rights activists.
Are applicants from high-income countries eligible?
Applicants from high-income countries will not be considered except for those representing marginalized communities. Preference is given to advocates from low-income countries.
Do I need a bachelor’s degree to apply?
A bachelor’s degree is preferred but not required. The program values work experience and commitment to human rights over formal education.
How are participants selected for HRAP?
Participants are selected based on their work experience, commitment to human rights, and ability to pursue graduate-level studies. Shortlisted applicants interview with HRAP alumni and finalists interview with ISHR’s Director of Capacity Building.
When will I be notified of the application status?
All applicants will be notified of their status by late February 2027. The selection and funding processes are lengthy, so please be patient.
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