Scholarships for Global Leadership & International Affairs – FCDO Global Network Programme

The FCDO Global Network Programme (GNP) brings together leaders from business, government, academia, research and civil society to develop their understanding of global affairs, strengthen strategic leadership skills and build international networks.

Delivered by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office's Diplomatic College, the programme gives participants access to policymakers, diplomats, academics and leaders from different sectors and countries.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Full and partial scholarships available for nonprofit and governmental organisations

• In-person leadership and international affairs programme

• Sessions with diplomats, policymakers, academics and industry leaders

• Cross-sector and international networking

• Discussions and workshops on major geopolitical challenges

• Learning around economic security and strategic competition

• Exploration of AI, technology, cyber threats and disinformation

• Sessions covering soft power, defence and security

• Exploration of climate, critical minerals and global supply chains

• Case studies, workshops, panels and expert discussions

• Access to a lifetime alumni network after completing the programme

• Ongoing opportunities to attend networking events and senior-level exchanges

Who can apply?

Applications and expressions of interest are welcomed from people working across:

• Businesses with significant international interests

• Foreign governments

• UK Government departments with international portfolios

• Civil society organisations

• NGOs

• Researchers and academics

• Other organisations working on global challenges

There are currently two pathways:

Executive Pathway – designed for established senior leaders, such as board-level business leaders, senior diplomats, senior civil servants and senior civil society leaders.

Future Leaders Pathway – aimed at high-potential, mid-career professionals preparing to move into senior leadership positions.

Applicants are assessed individually, with the FCDO looking at professional experience as well as the overall mix of each cohort.

Cost: This is a paid programme, with fees confirmed to applicants who progress beyond the initial selection stage. However, full and partial scholarships are available for nonprofit and governmental organisations, assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Programme fees include participation, meals and accommodation where relevant, as well as lifetime membership of the alumni network.

Deadline: No fixed application deadline is currently listed.

Expressions of interest are currently being accepted for future cohorts.

Upcoming cohorts include an Executive Programme from November 2026–January 2027, another Executive cohort from January–May 2027, and a Future Leaders pilot from March–June 2027.