East-West Center Scholarships and Fellowships: Your Complete Guide to Funding Asia-Pacific Studies

The East-West Center Scholarships offers prestigious scholarships and fellowships that bring students and professionals from across the globe to Hawaii for transformative educational experiences focused on Asia-Pacific studies, leadership development, and cultural exchange. Established in 1960 by the U.S. Congress, these programs have supported over 65,000 participants from 50+ countries, creating a powerful alumni network of Asia-Pacific leaders.

Why Choose East-West Center Scholarships?

✔ Fully-funded opportunities at a premier U.S. research institution
✔ Unique Pacific-Asia focus with interdisciplinary approach
✔ Leadership development through professional workshops
✔ Multicultural community living at the Honolulu campus
✔ Career advancement through extensive alumni network

Types of Funding Opportunities

1. Degree Fellowships (For Graduate Students)

Eligibility:

• Admission to University of Hawaii (Mānoa) graduate programs

• Demonstrated interest in Asia-Pacific studies

• Minimum 3.0 GPA

Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage

• Monthly stipend ($1,600-$1,900)

• Housing in EWC residence halls

• Health insurance

• Leadership training

Duration: 2 years for Master’s, 3 years for PhD

Popular Fields:

• Pacific Islands Studies

• Asian Studies

• Public Health

• Environmental Science

• International Business

2. Asia Pacific Leadership Program (APLP)

Key Features:

• 9-month professional development fellowship

• Combines coursework with field studies across Asia

• For mid-career professionals (average age 32)

Funding: Full or partial awards available

3. Research Fellowships

Opportunities Include:

• Visiting Fellows Program (3-12 months)

• Affiliate Scholar Program

• Graduate Degree Fellowship

Research Areas:

• Climate change adaptation

• Sustainable development

• Cross-cultural communication

• Governance and diplomacy

Application Process: Step-by-Step

1. Choose Your Program

   • Match your academic/professional goals with EWC offerings

2. Prepare Documents:

   • Statement of purpose (500-1000 words)

   • 3 recommendation letters

   • Academic transcripts

   • CV/resume

3. Submit Applications:

   • Degree Fellowships: Dec 1 deadline

   • APLP: March 1 deadline

   • Research Fellowships: Varies by program

4. Interview Process:

   • Selected candidates interviewed via video conference

Financial Coverage Details

Success Tips from Selection Committee

1. Demonstrate Regional Commitment:

   • Highlight Asia-Pacific experience in your essays

   • Show how you’ll apply knowledge post-fellowship

2. Emphasize Leadership Potential:

   • Provide concrete examples of initiative and impact

3. Align with EWC Mission:

   • Connect your goals to building “peaceful, prosperous” Asia-Pacific relations

4. Prepare Strong Recommendations:

   • Choose referees who can speak to both academic and leadership qualities

Notable Alumni Success Stories

• Dr. Siti Fadilah (Indonesia): Former Health Minister

• Dr. Seiji Naya (Japan): Economist and former Hawaii DBEDT Director

• Mere Pulea (Fiji): Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I apply if I’m not from an Asia-Pacific country?
A: Yes! About 20% of participants come from outside the region.

Q: Is there an age limit for degree fellowships?
A: No strict limit, but most recipients are under 40.

Q: Can I bring family members?
A: Limited family housing available for degree fellows.

Q: What’s the acceptance rate?
A: Highly competitive – about 8% for degree fellowships.

Q: Are there post-fellowship obligations?
A: No strict requirements, but alumni engagement is encouraged.

How to Strengthen Your Application

✔ Language Skills: Basic Asian/Pacific language ability helps
✔ Regional Experience: Highlight relevant work/study in the region
✔ Clear Goals: Articulate how EWC fits your career trajectory
✔ Community Focus: Demonstrate commitment to public service

Important Deadlines

Start Your Application

Begin your journey by visiting:
https://www.eastwestcenter.org/apply

For specific questions:
 admissions@eastwestcenter.org
+1 808-944-7738

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