EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026 in Italy offers an exceptional opportunity for emerging policy professionals to grow their leadership skills in one of Europe’s most inspiring academic environments. Hosted in Florence at the prestigious European University Institute (EUI), this fully funded program brings together passionate individuals from politics, civil service, media, NGOs, and other policy-related fields. Designed to support those with real-world experience in shaping public policy, the fellowship helps participants strengthen their expertise while engaging with an international community of leaders.
Each year, the EUI Leaders Fellowship selects around 20–25 fellows from across the globe, ensuring a diverse and dynamic cohort. The program runs for five to ten months and covers all major expenses, making it accessible to talented applicants worldwide. No English language proficiency test is required, allowing more candidates to apply with confidence. If you are aiming to advance your policy impact and experience life in historic Florence, the EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026 could be the perfect step forward.
Benefits of EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026
- Monthly Stipend: Fellows receive a monthly stipend of €2,500 to cover living expenses.
- Household Allowance: A monthly allowance of €300 is provided to assist with additional household costs.
- Child Allowance: An additional €200 per month is provided for each dependent child.
- Travel Allowance: Fellows are eligible for a total of €1,200 to cover travel expenses, including first-class rail and economy-class airfare.
Eligibility Criteria for the EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026
- Nationality: The EUI Leadership Program in Italy is open to all Nationals. EU citizenship is not required.
- Degree Level: A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required. A Ph.D. degree is not required.
- Age: There is no age recommendation or cut-off.
- Mid-Career Professionals: Candidates should be mid-career professionals with a minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience.
- Policy-Relevant Themes: Priority will be given to applicants whose work addresses pressing policy challenges relevant to the STG’s focus areas.
Fellowship Dates and Duration
Five or Ten Months. Candidates should indicate their preference from the following options:
- Five months: September 2025 – January 2026
- Ten months: September 2025 – June 2026
Required Documents
- CV (3 pages max)
- Short Bio (250 words max)
- 2 Reference Letters
- Highest Degree Certificate
- Motivation Letter (1000 words max)
- Work Plan (2500 words max)
- Optional Work Samples
How to Apply for the EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026?
- Start by reviewing the fellowship requirements to ensure you meet all eligibility criteria.
- Collect your essential documents, including your CV, motivation statement, and any required project details.
- Prepare a clear description of your professional background and how your work aligns with the fellowship’s goals.
- Draft strong, concise answers for all application questions before filling in the actual form.
- Upload your documents in the correct format and double-check for errors or missing information.
- Submit your application before the deadline and keep a copy of your confirmation for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026 is a fully-residential program in Florence for mid-career policy professionals, running for 5 or 10 months from 1 Sept 2026. Applicants need ≥ 10 years’ experience, a bachelor’s degree, and strong policy-oriented project plans. Fully funded with monthly grant, allowances, and travel support.
What is the EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026 (Policy Leader Fellowship) 2026?
The fellowship is a residential program at a school of transnational governance aimed at mid-career policy professionals. It brings practitioners from politics, civil service, NGOs, media, etc., to Florence to co-design real‐world policy projects.
When does the EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026 start, and what is the application deadline?
The program begins on 1 September 2026, and the deadline for applications is 23 January 2026 at 14:00 CET. Applications must be submitted via an online portal—no paper or email applications
ow long is the EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026 ?
There are two options: either five months (with two possible windows) or ten months (full academic year). The exact period must be indicated in your application.
Where will fellows live during the program?
EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026 are required to reside in or near Florence for the entire duration. It’s a full-time, in-person experience, with only short permitted visits outside Italy.
What kind of applicants is this EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026 for?
It targets mid-career policy professionals with at least 10 years of relevant experience. Strictly academic backgrounds are less likely to be successful; the focus is on real-world policy work.
Is there a minimum educational requirement?
Yes — applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent). A PhD is not required.
How competitive is the selection, and what criteria are used?
Applications are assessed on several fronts: professional excellence, relevance of your proposed work plan, future potential, and alignment with faculty-led thematic projects.
What financial support does the EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026 provide?
EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026 receive a basic grant of €2,500 per month. If they have other income, the fellowship payment may be reduced (minimum €1,750/month).
Are there additional financial benefits?
Yes. There’s up to €310/month for a partner (if living in Florence and under income limit) and €210/month per dependent child (with conditions). Travel is reimbursed (up to €1,200).
What output is expected from the fellows?
EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026 build their own policy project but also join a thematic, faculty-led collective project. They are expected to deliver tangible outputs (e.g. policy brief, toolkit), and engage in peer learning, trainings, and “STG Talks” during their stay.
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