EU Policy Leader Fellowship Opens Doors for Global Change-Makers in 2026

The European University Institute (EUI) is now accepting applications for its prestigious Policy Leader Fellowship. The mid-career program is hosted at the Florence School of Transnational Governance. It runs for the 2026-2027 academic year. The deadline for submissions is January 23, 2026. This initiative targets professionals eager to develop tangible policy solutions.

What the Policy Leader Fellowship Offers

This residential fellowship is designed for experienced policy professionals. It welcomes applicants from politics, civil service, media, and non-governmental organizations. The program provides an insider’s view of European Union policy-making. It does not require a traditional academic background.

Fellows will spend five or ten months in Florence. They will work on projects with transnational relevance. The environment encourages peer-to-peer learning and professional networking. According to the EUI, the fellowship aims to build lasting professional connections among participants.

Financial Support and Fellowship Benefits

The fellowship provides a substantial monthly grant. The basic grant is set at €2,500 per month. This amount is adjusted if fellows receive other income. Additional allowances are available for fellows with families.

A household allowance of up to €310 per month is provided. There is also a child allowance of €210 per month. The program includes travel reimbursement for the fellow. The maximum travel reimbursement is €1,200 for both incoming and outgoing trips.

Eligibility and Selection Process for Applicants

The program seeks mid-career professionals with a minimum of ten years of experience. Candidates must demonstrate professional excellence and future potential. The selection committee typically does not consider applicants with strictly academic profiles.

Ideal candidates are self-motivated and open-minded. They should be willing to engage in discussions beyond their immediate expertise. A cooperative mindset is essential for this collaborative environment. The evaluation focuses on accomplishments, work plan feasibility, and potential impact.

The EUI Policy Leader Fellowship represents a significant opportunity for professionals to refine their skills and contribute to global policy dialogue. This program stands out for its practical focus and diverse community.

Info at your fingertips

What is the application deadline for the fellowship?

The application deadline is January 23, 2026. All applications must be submitted by 14:00 Central European Time. The system will not accept submissions after this deadline.

How long does the fellowship last in Florence?

Fellows can choose between a five-month or a ten-month stay. The program is residential, requiring fellows to be based in Florence. The duration is selected during the application process.

Is the fellowship open to non-EU citizens?

Yes, the program actively seeks geographic diversity. It is open to mid-career professionals from all over the world. The selection committee strives for a globally representative cohort.

What financial support does the fellowship provide?

The basic grant is €2,500 per month. Additional allowances are available for family members. The grant amount may be adjusted if other income sources are declared.

What type of professional background is preferred?

The fellowship prefers candidates with hands-on policy experience. This includes fields like government, media, and NGOs. Purely academic profiles are typically not considered.