Are you a passionate global health advocate, professional, or community leader from a Low- or Middle-Income Country (LMIC)? Do you want to attend one of the world's leading strategic forums for global health?
The World Health Summit (WHS) 2026 Stipend & Fellowship Program is now officially accepting applications. Sponsored by the Wellcome Trust, this incredible opportunity offers fully funded travel and accommodation for up to 15 outstanding participants to attend the WHS in Berlin, Germany, from October 11–13, 2026.
Here is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about this fully funded fellowship, including eligibility criteria, financial benefits, and step-by-step application instructions.
What is the World Health Summit Stipend & Fellowship Program?
The World Health Summit (WHS) is an annual global health conference that brings together leading experts from science, politics, industry, and civil society to set the agenda for a healthier future.
To ensure diverse voices are heard, the WHS, with support from the Wellcome Trust, is offering a robust stipend and fellowship program. The goal is to bring up to 15 talented individuals from LMICs—and those with lived experiences in global health challenges—to Berlin to participate in the open formats of the 2026 summit.
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Benefits: What Does the WHS Fellowship Cover?
This is a fully funded opportunity. Selected participants will receive comprehensive financial and logistical support, including:
- Roundtrip Airfare: Economy class flights to and from Berlin.
- Accommodation: Four nights of hotel stay (October 10–14, 2026) including breakfast, located within walking distance of the venue.
- Conference Access: Full registration for the World Health Summit 2026, which covers all food and beverages during the event.
- Visa & Passport Support: Reimbursement of up to €200 for visa and passport processing costs.
- Local Transport/Stipend: Reimbursement of up to €200 for local transportation and other miscellaneous expenses.
- Exclusive Networking: An official invitation to the World Health Summit Kick-Off Reception on October 10, 2026.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
To be considered for the 2026 Stipend & Fellowship Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Nationality & Residence: You must hold nationality and currently reside in a Low- or Middle-Income Country (LMIC) based on the World Bank Classification 2025–2026. Alternatively, applicants with significant "lived experience" related to global health challenges are highly encouraged to apply.
- Global Health Engagement: You must demonstrate an active, ongoing engagement in global health. This can include professional work, grassroots advocacy, or community involvement.
- Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is required, as it is the official language of the conference.
- Visa Eligibility: You must be eligible to apply for and receive a short-term Schengen visa to travel to Germany.
Application Requirements
Make sure to prepare the following documents before starting your online application:
- Personal Information: Including your current country of nationality and residence.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlighting your educational and professional background.
- Motivation Letter (1–2 pages): Detailing why you want to attend, what you hope to learn, and how your participation will benefit your home community or organization.
- Proof of Engagement: Documents proving your active role in global health (e.g., employment letters, advocacy records, or letters of recommendation).
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How to Apply & Deadlines
Applications must be submitted electronically via the official World Health Summit online application form.
Deadline Warning: The WHS application review process is conducted on a rolling basis. This means applications are reviewed as they come in, and the portal will close as soon as all 15 spots are filled. Therefore, interested candidates are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Selection Process & Important Remarks
- Lottery System: Applications are first evaluated for completeness and quality. If there is a high volume of highly qualified candidates, the WHS will employ a lottery system to select the final recipients, ensuring diverse regional representation.
- Participant Role: Stipend recipients will attend as general participants with access to all open formats, not as official speakers.
- Reimbursement Rules: Original receipts stating the purpose, date, amount, currency, and taxes paid must be submitted for visa, passport, and transport reimbursements.
- Post-Event Responsibilities: Selected fellows must agree to contribute to WHS communication activities (e.g., writing reports, recording short videos, or creating social media posts). Additionally, fellows must complete an evaluation survey immediately after the conference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is there an application fee for the WHS Stipend & Fellowship Program?
No, the application process is completely free of charge.
2. Does the World Health Summit guarantee my Schengen visa?
No. While the WHS provides an official invitation letter and tries to support candidates facing difficulties, the ultimate responsibility for obtaining the Schengen visa lies with the applicant. You must apply in a timely manner.
3. Will the fellowship cover extra hotel expenses like room service or a mini-bar?
No. The WHS covers the standard room rate and breakfast. Additional expenses, including mini-bar usage or double occupancy upgrades, are the sole responsibility of the participant.
4. Can I choose my own flights?
The World Health Summit will book the most economical direct flight in economy class for you. Any costs incurred for personal rebooking or travel insurance will not be covered.
5. I am from a high-income country but work in an LMIC. Am I eligible?
The core eligibility dictates that you must hold nationality of and reside in an LMIC. However, individuals from non-LMICs with deep "lived experience" in global health hardships are also encouraged to check eligibility under the lived experience category.
Official Links & Resources
Ready to submit your application? Use the official links below to apply and download the necessary resources.
- Official Application Portal: WHS 2026 Stipend & Fellowship Application
- Download Full Program Information (PDF): Available on the official application page.
- World Health Summit Homepage: worldhealthsummit.org
- Download Privacy Notice: click here or download on official site
Don't miss this chance to represent your community on a global stage in Berlin. Prepare your CV, draft a compelling motivation letter, and apply today!
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