After a one-year hiatus, the Henry Luce Foundation is excited to announce the start of the 2023–2024 Luce Scholars competition. With the insight and dedication of an experienced advisory council, Luce Scholars alumni, and program staff, we have redesigned the application and selection process to give even more early-career leaders the opportunity to experience what a Luce Year in Asia has to offer. 

The Luce Scholars Program is a nationally competitive fellowship that aims to forge stronger relationships across geographic borders by creating opportunities for young Americans to deepen their ties and understanding of the countries, cultures, and people of Asia.

The biggest change to the competition is a shift to an open, online application through which anyone who meets the eligibility criteria may apply. Unlike in previous years, candidates are no longer required to obtain a nomination or endorsement from an approved partner institution.

“After thoughtful discussion, prudent planning, and careful design of a new admissions process, we are excited to launch the Luce Scholars competition and begin selection of the 49th class of Luce Scholars,” said Michelle Douenias, Senior Program Manager of the Luce Scholars Program. “With an open application, we hope to reach a larger pool of candidates and offer this unique experience to outstanding young Americans who may not otherwise have an opportunity to get to know Asia.” 

The fellowship itself will remain the same. The Foundation will choose 15–18 Luce Scholars to embark on a year in Asia, during which time they will be provided with a stipend, intensive language training, an individualized professional work placement relevant to their interests, and regular meetings with support staff and the full cohort. 

“The Luce Scholars Program has been an important part of the Luce Foundation since 1974,” added Luce Foundation President Mariko Silver. “With this new process, we strived to make the program more equitable, inclusive, and accessible. We look forward to welcoming new leaders into the Luce Scholars network and continuing to build stronger relationships between communities across the United States and Asia.”

The Luce Scholars Program welcomes applications from college seniors, graduate students, and young professionals in a wide range of fields and from a variety of backgrounds who have had limited exposure to Asia.    

[Update 8-3-2022] The deadline to apply is now October 15, 2022 at 11:59 PM EST. We will be sharing more information and announcing information sessions and opportunities to speak with alumni in the coming months. In the meantime, please feel free to send any questions to [email protected]. 

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