Luce Scholars Program 2026

Who can apply

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Be a graduating senior, recent graduate, or young professional under the age of 33 (no older than 32 when departing for Asia) who has earned at least a bachelor’s degree before...
• Not have spent 18 weeks or more since beginning college in more than one of the countries where Luce Scholars are placed.
• If the applicant has spent 18 weeks or more in only one placement country, they may still apply, but will not be placed in that country.

Eligibility lines are shown from available listing data.

Key requirements (4)

Program rules and conditions. Uploads and file types are listed under Required documents.

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Be a graduating senior, recent graduate, or young professional under the age of 33 (no older than 32 when departing for Asia) who has earned at least a bachelor’s degree before the start of the program, OR if older than 32, must have received their bachelor’s degree within the past three years. Not have spent 18 weeks or more since beginning college in more than one of the countries where Luce Scholars are placed. If the applicant has spent 18 weeks or more in only one placement country, they may still apply, but will not be placed in that country. Demonstrate leadership potential, intercultural competence, and professional achievement potential. Show initiative, creativity, maturity, humility, adaptability, openness to new ideas, and sensitivity to cultural differences. 13-month fully funded professional experience in Asia, including: Living stipend Professional placement in an organization in Asia Language training and cultural immersion Living stipend Professional placement in an organization in Asia Language training and cultural immersion Travel, lodging, and food covered for Finalist Weekend in the U.S. Scholars gain mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities. Complete the eligibility questionnaire on the Luce Scholars application portal. Submit the application, which includes: Personal and background information Academic information Personal statement (max 1,000 words) Three short answer questions (250 words each) 1–2 minute video (optional but recommended) Two letters of recommendation (one professional, one academic or professional) Optional supplemental materials Electronic signature of application. Personal and background information Academic information Personal statement (max 1,000 words) Three short answer questions (250 words each) 1–2 minute video (optional but recommended) Two letters of recommendation (one professional, one academic or professional) Optional supplemental materials Electronic signature of application.

Required documents

Listed materials from this opportunity.

• Essay or written statement
• Video submission