Apply to 2027 Dalai Lama Fellowship
Fellowship Opportunity: Dalai Lama Fellows 2027
The Dalai Lama Fellows (DLF) program is now accepting applications from young change-makers around the world for its 2027 Fellowship Cohort.
Founded in 2010 with the inspiration and encouragement of the 14th Dalai Lama, DLF supports an international community of young leaders addressing global challenges through locally adapted solutions. The program is non-sectarian and open to individuals from all backgrounds, faiths, and traditions.
Areas of Focus
Fellows work across one or more of the following sectors:
Health & Well-being
Education & Youth Development
Social Justice
Environment & Climate Action
Cultural Understanding
Contemplation & Inner Development
What the Fellowship Provides
Curriculum: A comprehensive yearlong Head, Heart, Hands online leadership curriculum.
Individual Guidance: One-on-one coaching focused on personal growth, resilience, and leadership development.
Peer Network: Small-group coaching sessions and interactive learning calls.
Project Support: Strategic support to help design, advance, and scale social innovation initiatives.
Global Community: Lifelong access to an active, international network of social innovators and alumni.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2027 Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Requirement Specification
AgeBetween 20 and 36 years old as of April 1, 2027.
LanguageFully fluent in written and spoken English.
Project StatusCurrently leading a social change project or possessing a well-developed, actionable plan.
ExperienceIn-depth knowledge of the target community; preferably at least 1 year of prior engagement.
Contemplative PracticeInterest in learning and integrating contemplative practices into daily life and leadership.
CommitmentSustained dedication to the project and full participation in all program activities.
Time Commitment
Participants should expect to commit approximately 12 hours per month to fellowship activities (including coaching, group calls, and coursework). This is separate from the time spent directly running their social change projects.
Key Program Dates
Application Launch: October 1, 2026
Application Deadline: November 11, 2026
⚠️ Notice on Artificial Intelligence (AI) Usage
Dalai Lama Fellows emphasizes authenticity and lived experience in its evaluation process. The program strongly discourages applicants from using AI tools to write application essays, as AI cannot replicate an applicant’s authentic voice, personal values, or lived human experience.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the eligibility criteria must submit their application through the official portal before the deadline.
Review the eligibility requirements and ensure your project aligns with the program focus.
Prepare your application materials using your authentic voice.
Submit the online application via the Dalai Lama Fellows Application Portal.
Inquiries & Support: For questions regarding the program or application process, email dalailamafellows@virginia.edu.
