The call for applications for the Global Citizen Scholarship Program 2026 has officially been announced, opening the door for passionate young changemakers to turn their ideas into action. After multiple successful cycles, the 9th round of this prestigious scholarship program is now inviting applications from young leaders across Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
Organized by the Ban Ki-moon Foundation, this fully virtual scholarship aims to empower young global citizens who are deeply committed to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through a structured program that combines mentorship, training, networking, and seed funding, selected scholars will have the opportunity to design and implement a localized changemaker project that addresses real challenges within their communities.
The deadline to apply is Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 1:55 AM. For ambitious young leaders ready to create measurable social impact, this scholarship represents more than just a training opportunity—it is a platform for transformation.
The Vision Behind the Global Citizen Scholarship Program
At its core, the Global Citizen Scholarship Program is about action. While many programs focus solely on academic enrichment or leadership training, this initiative goes further by requiring scholars to conceptualize and implement a community-based project aligned with one or more of the SDGs.
The scholarship is built on the philosophy that global change begins with local action. By empowering individuals between the ages of 20 and 35 to lead sustainable initiatives in their own communities, the program creates a ripple effect that contributes to broader global development goals.
The world today faces urgent challenges: climate change, poverty, gender inequality, unemployment, food insecurity, and fragile healthcare systems. These issues are not abstract global problems; they affect real communities every day. The Global Citizen Scholarship recognizes that young leaders are often closest to these problems—and therefore best positioned to design innovative, context-specific solutions.
A Fully Virtual Yet Deeply Impactful Experience
One of the unique aspects of the program is that it is fully virtual. This allows participation from multiple countries without requiring relocation for most of the program duration. Despite being virtual, the structure is intensive, interactive, and collaborative.
Over the course of 8 to 9 months, beginning in April 2026, selected scholars will:
- Deepen their understanding of Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals
- Strengthen entrepreneurial skills for sustainable development
- Participate in peer-to-peer mentoring
- Engage in expert-led workshops and thematic trainings
- Join a two-week summer school training in collaboration with Management Center Innsbruck (MCI University)
- Receive seed funding to implement their changemaker project
This long-term engagement ensures that participants are not only inspired but also supported through implementation.
Who Can Apply? Eligible Countries
The scholarship program targets applicants from selected countries across four regions:
Africa
Cameroon, Ethiopia, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe
Middle East
Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE
South Asia
Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
Southeast Asia
Cambodia, Laos, Philippines, Vietnam
Applicants must hold citizenship in one of these countries and must be between 20 and 35 years old at the time of application.
For young professionals and graduates in these regions, this is a rare opportunity to access global mentorship and institutional backing while remaining rooted in their local communities.
Academic and Language Requirements
To ensure a high level of academic engagement and project execution capacity, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Completed at least a Master’s degree
(In exceptional cases, completion of the first year of a Master’s program may suffice.) - Demonstrated strong dedication to SDGs and global citizenship ideals
- Minimum English level B2 (European Standards)
The Master’s degree requirement signals that this program is tailored for individuals who already possess academic maturity and are prepared to handle the intellectual and practical demands of designing and implementing sustainable projects.
What Makes This Scholarship Unique?
1. Changemaker Project Implementation
Unlike many scholarships that only offer coursework or research opportunities, the Global Citizen Scholarship requires scholars to propose and implement a localized project.
This project must:
- Address one or more SDGs
- Be feasible within the scholar’s community
- Demonstrate sustainability and measurable impact
Scholars are not just learners; they are implementers.
2. Seed Funding Support
Each selected scholar will receive 500 EUR in seed funding to support the implementation of their project. This financial support is distributed after successful submission of a project proposal.
While the amount may not fully fund large-scale initiatives, it provides critical startup capital for pilot activities, community engagement, materials, or awareness campaigns.
3. Summer School at MCI University
One of the highlights of the program is the full cost coverage for a two-week summer school training at Management Center Innsbruck (MCI) University.
This international exposure:
- Connects scholars with global networks
- Provides structured academic training
- Strengthens leadership and entrepreneurship skills
- Creates lasting cross-cultural partnerships
4. Mentorship and Expert Training
Participants benefit from:
- Peer-to-peer mentoring
- Expert workshops
- Thematic training sessions
- Networking with professionals in sustainable development
This ecosystem of support ensures that scholars are not isolated in their efforts.
5. Certification and Recognition
Upon successful completion of their changemaker project, scholars receive a certificate of achievement signed by the Co-chairs of the Ban Ki-moon Foundation:
- Ban Ki-moon
- Heinz Fischer
This endorsement adds significant credibility and recognition to a scholar’s professional profile.
The Application Process: What You Need to Prepare
The application process is detailed and comprehensive. Applicants must submit both personal and professional information, as well as project-specific documentation.
Personal Details Required:
- Name and contact information
- Date of birth
- Address and citizenship
- Gender
- Education background
- Language competence
- Short profile description
Professional Details:
- Academic titles
- Organization name
- Current function or position
Changemaker Project Information:
- Project title
- SDGs addressed
- Issues tackled
- General implementation process
Required Attachments at Final Stage:
- Motivational statement
- Portrait picture (JPEG or PNG format)
- Introduction video (max 60 seconds, MP4 or MOV format)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Project outline
Application Link: https://bankimooncentre.submit.com//show/28
The platform allows applicants to save their nomination form as a draft and return to it later—an important feature for those who need time to refine their project proposal.
Crafting a Strong Changemaker Project Idea
A compelling project proposal is the heart of your application. Here are key factors to consider:
Relevance to SDGs
Align your project clearly with one or more SDGs. Show how your initiative directly contributes to measurable targets.
Community-Based Approach
Demonstrate that your project is rooted in local realities. Explain:
- Who benefits?
- What problem are you addressing?
- Why is this issue urgent?
Feasibility
Since seed funding is limited, your project should be realistic and implementable within 8–9 months.
Sustainability
Consider long-term impact. Can the initiative continue beyond the scholarship period?
Why This Scholarship Matters in 2026
As the world approaches the midpoint of Agenda 2030, global progress toward achieving the SDGs remains uneven. Youth leadership has become a critical component of sustainable development strategies worldwide.
Programs like the Global Citizen Scholarship help:
- Translate global frameworks into local action
- Empower youth leadership
- Encourage entrepreneurship for development
- Strengthen cross-regional collaboration
In regions such as Africa and South Asia, where youth populations are rapidly growing, empowering educated young professionals to lead sustainable initiatives can have transformative long-term effects.
Timeline and Key Dates
- Application Deadline: March 5, 2026 at 1:55 AM
- Program Start Date: April 2026
- Duration: 8–9 months
Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin preparing early, especially since video recording and project outlining require thoughtful preparation.
Who Should Apply?
This scholarship is ideal for:
- Young professionals passionate about social impact
- Master’s graduates seeking international exposure
- Entrepreneurs working on sustainability-focused initiatives
- Community leaders aiming to scale local solutions
- Researchers interested in applied development projects
If you are between 20 and 35 years old, hold citizenship in one of the eligible countries, and are deeply committed to advancing the SDGs, this program could be a defining chapter in your leadership journey.
Final Encouragement
Opportunities that combine funding, mentorship, global networking, and institutional endorsement are rare. The Global Citizen Scholarship Program 2026 is not just another academic program—it is a launchpad for action-oriented leaders who are ready to take responsibility for shaping a more sustainable future.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, take the time to craft a thoughtful, impactful application. Reflect on the challenges in your community. Think boldly but realistically. Show how your education, experience, and passion align with the ideals of global citizenship.
Submit your application before March 5, 2026, and take the next step toward becoming a Global Citizen Scholar 2026.
For further questions, applicants may reach out via email to: [email protected].
The future of sustainable development depends on courageous, committed young leaders. This could be your moment.