The 2026 GRÓ GEST Fellowship is now open for nominations. Organizations are invited to submit young professionals dedicated to gender equality.

The GRÓ Gender Equality Studies and Training (GEST) Program aims to empower young professionals to drive social change in their respective countries.

This is a one-semester postgraduate-level fellowship hosted at the University of Iceland. This intensive program provides academic training, leadership development, and research opportunities focused on enhancing gender equality. By fostering a network of skilled professionals, the program seeks to create a sustainable impact in communities worldwide.

The program seeks young professionals with at least a BA/BS/BEd degree, fluency in English, and a minimum of two years of relevant work experience. Priority is given to individuals under 35 who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to gender equality. Eligible candidates must be nationals and residents of low or middle-income countries or conflict/post-conflict societies listed as ODA-eligible by the DAC.

Candidates must be nominated by their superiors at their current workplace; self-nominations are not accepted. GEST gives priority to applicants from the least developed and lower-middle-income countries.

Key Details and Dates

• Application Deadline: 8 March 2025
• Funding Type: Fully funded
• Organizer: GRÓ Gender Equality Studies and Training (GEST)
• Host University: University of Iceland
• Eligible Countries: Low and middle-income countries, including conflict/post-conflict societies eligible for official development assistance (ODA)
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female
• Target Group: Junior professionals, young researchers, and individuals committed to gender equality
• Focus Areas: Gender studies, social development, policy implementation, human rights
• Study Level: Postgraduate-level training (30 ECTS)
• Degree Required: Minimum of a BA/BS/BEd
• Program Duration: 5 months (January – May 2026)
• Program Language: English
• Host Country: Iceland

Benefits and Financial Aids

Applicants will benefit from the following items:

• Fully funded by GRÓ GEST through Iceland’s government support.
• Partially or fully funded by development agencies, embassies, or governments.
• Co-funded by Erasmus+ and GRÓ GEST for MA students at partner universities.
• Scholarships cover travel, campus housing, per diem, learning materials, and tuition.

Notes:

• UN agency employees (except UNRWA) must secure full funding from their organizations.
• Erasmus+ scholarships are available for master’s students in gender studies or related fields.
• Erasmus+ candidates must be enrolled in a partner university and earn ECTS credits.

Eligibility Criteria

Who can apply for the GRO GEST Fellowship?

• Applicants must hold a university degree (BA/BS/BEd or higher)
• Fluent in both spoken and written English
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in gender-related fields
• Aged 35 years or younger (priority given to younger applicants)
• Demonstrated leadership skills and potential as an agent of change
• Committed to advancing gender equality in their home country
• Must be a national and resident of an eligible low or middle-income country (ODA-eligible as per the DAC list)
• Must be nominated by a superior at their current place of work (self-nominations are not accepted)

Prerequisites for Erasmus+ Candidates:

• Enrolled in an MA program at a GEST partner university.
• Studying a gender equality-related field.
• Fluent in spoken and written English.
• Junior professionals or researchers (priority under 35).
• Strong leadership and change-making potential.
• Committed to gender equality.
• Nationals/residents of low/middle-income or conflict-affected countries.
• Eligible for ECTS credit transfer to their home university.

Selection Process

Selection Process is highlighted as follows:

• Qualified nominees submit detailed applications.
• Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews.
• Candidates must explain their work and organizational role.
• They outline how GRÓ GEST benefits their organization and community.
• They demonstrate the feasibility and impact of their project or research.
• They showcase expertise in their field and its connection to gender equality.

How to Apply?

• Obtain a nomination from a superior (e.g., direct supervisor, department head, CEO, or board chairman) at your current workplace.
• Complete the nomination form available on the GRÓ GEST website using the link below.
• Apply by the deadline.
• Await confirmation and further instructions from the GRÓ GEST admissions team.
• If shortlisted, participate in any additional selection steps, such as an interview.

Nominate Now

For more details, visit the GRÓ GEST Program call for application or the admissions page.

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