The Echidna Global Scholar Program 2026 in the USA is a fully funded, six-month fellowship designed to empower leaders from the Global South who are passionate about advancing gender equality in education. Hosted by the prestigious Brookings Institution’s Center for Universal Education (CUE) in Washington, D.C., this fellowship offers hands-on research, networking, and leadership development opportunities for mid-career professionals. Below is a comprehensive guide addressing every essential aspect of the Echidna Global Scholar Program 2026 to help international applicants.
Basic Information About the Program
The Echidna Global Scholar Program 2026 is a visiting fellowship tailored for professionals aiming to drive change in girls’ education and gender-equality policies across developing countries. Applications are now open, and the final deadline for submission is December 15, 2025. The fellowship runs for six months—two months remotely from the scholar’s home country and four months on-site at the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C.
- Hosted by the Center for Universal Education (CUE) at the Brookings Institution, Washington, DC.
- Aimed at leaders from the Global South committed to advancing gender equality in and through education.
- Duration: 6 months total — 2 months pre-residency (remote) + 4 months residency (in-person in DC).
- Fellows conduct research, develop policy recommendations, and design impact projects for their home countries.
University/Institution Details
This prestigious program is hosted by the Center for Universal Education (CUE) at the Brookings Institution, one of the most reputable think tanks based in Washington, D.C., USA. The Brookings Institution is celebrated globally for its work in public policy, education reform, and leadership development.
Three Phases
- Pre-Residency (Remote, ~15–20 hrs/week)
- Data collection and analysis in home country.
- Virtual workshops, advisory sessions, and leadership training.
- Begin developing an impact strategy.
- Residency (Washington, DC, Full-time, ~40 hrs/week)
- Deepen research and policy analysis.
- Write and present policy paper at Brookings events.
- Leadership development and networking.
- Publish policy briefs and commentaries.
- Post-Residency (2 years)
- Implement impact projects at home.
- Receive continued support from CUE.
- Join Echidna Global Scholars Alumni Network (EGSAN) for ongoing collaboration and leadership development.
Responsibilities
- Conduct and publish evidence-based research.
- Participate in workshops and leadership training.
- Develop a post-residency project proposal.
- Engage with education and policy networks globally.
Echidna Global Scholar Program Benefits
The Echidna Global Scholar Program 2026 provides the following fully funded benefits:
- A stipend totaling $26,500 USD to cover both pre-residency and residency living expenses (subject to U.S. taxes)
- Single-occupancy housing in Washington, D.C. for four months
- Round-trip international travel expenses
- Health insurance plan while in residence
- Visa processing support
- Participation in leadership development, global networking, and policy research events
Benefits Not Included
While the Echidna Global Scholar Program covers major expenses, certain costs are not included:
- Family/dependent visa and accommodation costs
- Costs for personal expenses or leisure travel
- Full, long-term health coverage beyond the limited plan provided for residency
Eligibility Criteria for the Echidna Global Scholar Program
Applicants must:
- Must have strong ties to the Global South and plan to return after residency.
- Master’s degree required.
- 10+ years of professional experience in education, gender, development, or related fields.
- Proven commitment to gender equality in education.
- Proficiency in English is mandatory.
- Be able to commit to a four-month residency in Washington, D.C.
Priority for 2026
- Regions: West Africa, Southeast Asia, Latin America & the Caribbean, Southwest Asia & North Africa.
- Contexts: Conflict/crisis zones; areas with high gender-based violence or low SRHR.
- Communities: Marginalized girls, young women, gender non-conforming youth, indigenous/migrant/displaced populations.
- Research Focus:
- Barriers to quality education for girls and gender-diverse learners.
- Intersectional and feminist/decolonial approaches.
- Skills development, transitions to work/higher education.
- Policy and systems transformation.
Required Documents for the Application
Applicants must prepare and submit:
- A current CV or resume (listing all academic, professional, and publication details)
- A cover letter explaining leadership experience and motivation
- A research proposal (3–5 pages) focused on gender equality and educational issues in their home country
- Completed application form and written questionnaire
Letters of recommendation, transcripts, and writing samples are not required for the initial application.
Echidna Global Scholar Program Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Review Official Eligibility and Program Requirements: Ensure suitability based on background, experience, and research interest.
- Draft and Finalize Your Research Proposal: Tailor it to address a clear challenge in girls’ education or gender equality.
- Update Your CV/Resume: Emphasize experience, leadership, and prior research.
- Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Clearly articulate goals, impact, and commitment.
- Complete the Application Questionnaire: Available on the Brookings iCIMS system.
- Submit All Application Materials: Applications must be uploaded digitally via the official Brookings application portal.
- Interview Stage: Shortlisted candidates are called for interviews in January and February 2026.
- Selection & Acceptance: Selected fellows are notified in March, with an expected program start in June 2026.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early: Begin your research proposal and document preparations well before the deadline.
- Focus your research proposal on practical, scalable solutions for gender equality in education.
- Highlight measurable impact potential and feasibility within your home country’s context.
- Tailor your cover letter to showcase leadership, innovation, and prior successes.
- Proofread all documents carefully; seek feedback from mentors or past fellows if possible.
- Demonstrate clarity about how the fellowship will help further your career and local impact.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)
Living in Washington, D.C. as a fellow, the major expenses are covered by the program:
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) | Covered by Fellowship |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $1,800–$2,500 | Yes |
| Food and Groceries | $350–$600 | From stipend |
| Transportation | $100–$150 | From stipend |
| Health Insurance | $200–$300 | Limited plan |
| Personal Expenses | $200–$400 | From stipend |
| Utilities/Internet | $100–$150 | Usually covered |
The total stipend of $26,500 should comfortably cover the six-month program and normal living expenses for a single individual, but additional dependents will require careful budgeting.
Why Choose This Scholarship? (Top 5 Reasons)
- Fully Funded Experience: All main costs, from travel to housing, are covered, minimizing financial barriers.
- World-Class Networking: Fellows work alongside renowned researchers, policymakers, and global education leaders at one of the top think tanks in the world.
- Transformative Leadership Training: Targeted leadership modules and ongoing support develop skills that last beyond the fellowship.
- Lasting Impact on Home Country: Research projects are tailored for real-world application, fostering sustainable improvements in girls’ education and equity.
- Ongoing Alumni Support: Graduates join an esteemed global network for continued collaboration, mentorship, and funding opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Echidna Global Scholar Program
1. Is the scholarship open to all nationalities?
No—applicants must come from the Global South, with a focus on countries in Latin America, Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
2. Do I need to take an English language test?
While official test scores are not strictly required, proficiency in English is mandatory for full participation in research and presentations.
3. Can I bring my family?
The program only covers costs for the fellow. Spouses, children, or other dependents are not provided for; additional arrangements must be made independently.
4. What if I do not have a Master’s degree?
A Master’s degree is required, along with substantial, relevant work experience.
5. When does the program start, and what is the timeline?
- Info session: October 22, 2025
- Application deadline: December 15, 2025
- Interviews: Jan–Feb 2026
- Selection: March 6, 2026
- Acceptance: March 20, 2026
- Program: June 15 – December 2026
Official Link:
For international professionals dedicated to gender equality in education, the Echidna Global Scholar Program 2026 at Brookings Institution offers an unparalleled opportunity for academic growth, global leadership, and transformative action. Take the leap and apply to become a part of this game-changing movement in global education and gender equity!