Fellowships are awarded on the basis of merit. Study in engineering, sciences and languages are encouraged. Freshmen and sophomores are eligible to apply for scholarships for summer, semester and full-year programs. Juniors and seniors are eligible to apply for semester and full-year programs. Summer study scholarships are also available for juniors and seniors studying an applied science or engineering.
Most grantees plan their own programs.
Projects may include university coursework, independent library or field research, classes in a music conservatory or art school, special projects in the social or life sciences, or a combination. The Rotary Foundation provides funding for about 1,200 students each year through its Ambassadorial Scholarships program. Today the program sponsors several types of scholarships for undergraduate and graduate. While abroad, scholars serve as ambassadors of goodwill to the people of the host country and give presentations about their homelands to Rotary clubs and other groups. Upon returning home, scholars share with local Rotarians and others the experiences that led to greater understanding of their host countries.