The Global Fellows Program

An unparalleled opportunity for the world’s
brightest student leaders.

 
The Morehead-Cain Global Fellows Program is your gateway to an unparalleled academic and leadership experience at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, one of the world’s most respected public universities. This fully funded, one-year fellowship is designed for exceptional students from across the globe who seek to challenge themselves, lead with purpose, and make a lasting impact. As a Global Fellow, you will join a legacy of excellence, innovation, and leadership that transcends borders.

Who We Are Looking For

You have completed two years of undergraduate study by August 2025. You have shown you can handle a rigorous university courseload and are discovering new opportunities to lead within your community.

You relish an unbounded and self-directed learning opportunity. You are ready to take a year away for deep research and broad exploration, knowing you will return to your home university to share your learnings and graduate with your degree.

You strive to lead and serve your community. You recognize the importance of giving back and strengthening the communities you are a part of, whether locally or globally, and aspire to use your skills to empower others.

You demonstrate curiosity, resilience, and integrity. You approach challenges with an open mind, embrace personal growth, and remain steadfast in your commitment to excellence and ethical leadership.

You are a pioneer. As a member of the inaugural cohort of Global Fellows, you will shape the future of a dynamic community of Morehead-Cains for generations to come.

What You’ll Receive

A transformative year with full funding. Tuition, fees, living expenses, and enrichment opportunities are fully covered, so you can focus on making the most of your fellowship.

Academic excellence at UNC–Chapel Hill. Youll have access to world-class faculty, engage in cutting-edge research, and pursue interdisciplinary courses at one of the top universities in the United States.

Intentional leadership development. Engage in programs and workshops designed to challenge you in new ways. Morehead-Cain will cultivate your leadership potential, sharpen your problem-solving skills, and prepare you to tackle global challenges.

Cultural and intellectual exploration. Immerse yourself in a vibrant campus community in the United States while gaining a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives from peers and mentors worldwide.

A global network of leaders. Build lifelong connections with Morehead-Cain Global Fellows, scholars, and a distinguished alumni network who are leaders across industries and continents.

Our Community

Morehead-Cains come from across the globe. 

Their interests are diverse, and their perspectives vary widely. These are their stories.
Anna Connors ’24, Aayas Joshi ’26 awarded…
Anna Connors ’24 and Aayas Joshi ’26 have received the 2023 Rich Beckman…
Martha Isaacs ’17 named Schwarzman Scholar
This story was originally posted via unc.edu on December 9, 2022. Martha Isaacs ’17…
Jesse Moore ’01, co-founder and CEO of…
Written by William Dahl ’25, Morehead-Cain Scholar Media Team When Jesse Moore…
Join Our Network

Sign-up to receive our newsletter

Join Our Network

Sign-up for our newsletter and receive resources and guidance to help you apply for this transformative opportunity.