The East-West Center (EWC) Graduate Degree Fellowship is a prestigious scholarship program that offers graduate students from Asia, the Pacific, and the United States an opportunity to pursue advanced degrees at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UHM). Established with the aim of promoting understanding and collaboration among the peoples of the Asia-Pacific region and the United States, the EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship provides comprehensive financial support, leadership development, and a unique intercultural experience.

This guide provides an in-depth overview of the EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship for the year 2025, detailing its background, eligibility criteria, benefits, application process, and tips for prospective applicants.

About the East-West Center (EWC)

The East-West Center is a renowned institution that was established by the U.S. Congress in 1960 to promote better relations and understanding between the United States and the countries of Asia and the Pacific. Located in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, the EWC serves as a hub for research, education, and dialogue on issues of common concern to the Asia-Pacific region and the United States.

The EWC is committed to fostering a sense of community and mutual understanding among individuals from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. Through its various programs, the EWC brings together students, scholars, policymakers, and professionals to engage in collaborative learning, research, and dialogue.

Overview of the EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship

The EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship is designed to support graduate students who are committed to contributing to the understanding and cooperation between the Asia-Pacific region and the United States. The fellowship provides financial assistance to students who wish to pursue master’s or doctoral degrees at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa in a wide range of disciplines.

The fellowship is unique in that it not only provides financial support but also offers a rich intercultural and academic experience through the EWC’s educational programs. Fellows have the opportunity to participate in leadership development activities, community engagement, and research initiatives that are aligned with the EWC’s mission.

Eligibility Criteria

The EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship is open to students who meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Nationality:

   • Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States, or citizens of countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including South Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific Islands.

2. Academic Background:

   • Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The degree should be relevant to the field of study they wish to pursue at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.

3. Admission to the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa:

   • Applicants must apply for and gain admission to a graduate program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. The fellowship application is separate from the university admission process.

4. Commitment to the Asia-Pacific Region:

   • Applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to contributing to the understanding and cooperation between the Asia-Pacific region and the United States. This can be shown through academic achievements, professional experience, community service, or other relevant activities.

5. Language Proficiency:

   • For non-native English speakers, proficiency in English is required. This is typically demonstrated through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.

Fields of Study

The EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship supports a wide range of academic disciplines. Fellows can pursue master’s or doctoral degrees in areas such as:

• Asia-Pacific Studies
• International Relations
• Public Policy
• Environmental Studies
• Sociology
• Anthropology
• Economics
• Political Science
• Education
• Public Health
• Geography
• History

The choice of study program should align with the applicant’s academic and career goals, as well as with the EWC’s mission of promoting understanding and cooperation between the Asia-Pacific region and the United States.

Benefits of the EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship

The EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship offers a comprehensive package of benefits that make it an attractive option for graduate students. These benefits include:

1. Tuition and Fees:

   • The fellowship covers the full cost of tuition and fees for graduate studies at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. This ensures that fellows can focus on their academic work without the burden of tuition costs.

2. Living Stipend:

   • Fellows receive a living stipend to cover basic living expenses, including housing, food, and transportation. The stipend amount is based on the cost of living in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi.

3. Housing:

   • Fellows are provided with accommodation at the EWC’s student residence halls, which are located on the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa campus. The residence halls offer a supportive and intercultural living environment, where fellows can interact with students and scholars from around the world.

4. Health Insurance:

   • The fellowship provides comprehensive health insurance coverage for the duration of the fellowship. This ensures that fellows have access to medical care and can maintain their health while pursuing their studies.

5. Leadership Development:

   • The EWC offers a range of leadership development programs that are designed to enhance fellows’ leadership skills and prepare them for roles in their respective fields. These programs include workshops, seminars, and mentoring opportunities.

6. Intercultural Experience:

   • Fellows participate in EWC educational programs that promote intercultural understanding and dialogue. These programs provide opportunities for fellows to learn from each other, share their perspectives, and engage in meaningful discussions on global issues.

7. Networking Opportunities:

   • The fellowship provides access to a vast network of EWC alumni, scholars, and professionals who are leaders in their fields. Fellows can build connections that will be valuable for their future careers and professional development.

8. Research Support:

   • The EWC offers research support for fellows who are engaged in research projects related to the Asia-Pacific region. This includes access to EWC’s research facilities, resources, and mentorship from experienced researchers.

Application Process

Applying for the EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship is a competitive process that requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Below is a step-by-step guide to the application process:

Step 1: Secure Admission to the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa

The first step in applying for the EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship is to apply for and gain admission to a graduate program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. This involves:

1. Choosing a Program:

   • Explore the various graduate programs offered at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and select the one that aligns with your academic and career goals.

2. Application to UHM:

   • Submit your application to the chosen graduate program through the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s official admission portal. Ensure that you meet all program-specific requirements, such as academic qualifications, language proficiency, and other prerequisites.

3. Receive an Offer:

   • After submitting your application, you will need to wait for an admission decision. If you are offered a place in the program, you can then proceed to apply for the EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship.

Step 2: Prepare Your Fellowship Application

Once you have secured admission to the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, the next step is to prepare your EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship application. This involves gathering the necessary documents and ensuring that your application is complete and compelling. Key components of the application include:

1. Fellowship Application Form:

   • Complete the EWC Graduate Degree Fellowship application form, which is available on the EWC website. Make sure to fill it out accurately and provide all required information.

2. Academic Transcripts and Certificates:

   • Provide copies of your academic transcripts and certificates from previous studies. These documents should be officially translated into English if they are in another language.

3. Statement of Purpose:

   • Write a compelling statement of purpose that outlines your academic background, reasons for choosing the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, and how the fellowship will help you achieve your academic and career goals. Highlight your commitment to the Asia-Pacific region and your plans to contribute to its development.

4. Letters of Recommendation:

   • Obtain two or three letters of recommendation from professors or academic advisors who can attest to your academic abilities and potential. These letters should be written on official letterhead and signed.

5. Language Proficiency Test Scores:

   • Include your language proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.) as required by your chosen program.

6. Curriculum Vitae (CV):

   • Provide a comprehensive CV that includes your academic background, work experience, research experience, publications (if any), and other relevant activities.

7. Passport Copy:

   • Include a copy of your passport’s identification page.

Step 3: Submit the Application

Submit your completed fellowship application to the East-West Center by the specified deadline. Applications are typically submitted online through the EWC’s scholarship portal. Ensure that all required documents are uploaded and that your application is complete before submission.

Step 4: Await the Results

After submitting your application, you will need to wait for the selection committee’s decision. The selection process may take several weeks to a few months, depending on the volume of applications and the specific fellowship program. Successful applicants will be notified via email or through the EWC’s online portal.

Click on the link below to apply

https://scholarships365.info/ewc-graduate-degree-fellowship-2025-in-usa-fully-funded-fellowship