Start Your Application

Begin your journey with Morehead-Cain.

Are you ready to join a distinguished community of scholars and leaders from around the word? Follow these three simple steps to begin your journey.

Step One:

Confirm Your Eligibility

Students selected for the 2026–2027 Global Fellows Program must have completed four semesters by August 2026, will graduate in or after Spring 2028, and be in the top 25 percent of the student body at their home university.

Step Two:

Nomination by Faculty

Students must be nominated by a faculty or staff member from their home institution or nominating affiliate. Share the nomination form with your nominator to complete. All nominations will be confirmed by Morehead-Cain.

Step Three:

Submit Your Application

Applications must be submitted online through the Global Fellows website. Applicants can start and submit their application even if their nominator has not yet completed the form.

Application and Selection Timeline

The application window for the 2026–2027 Global Fellowship is now closed.

Once nominated, you can begin your application.

All nominations by a professor or advisor must be completed by 8:00 a.m. EST on November 10, 2025. All student applications must be finalized and submitted by 8:00 a.m. EST on November 17, 2025. This is the final deadline for submitting any materials and ensuring that all required information is complete.

We recommend submitting applications as early as possible to allow time for any adjustments. Please reach out if you have any questions about the process.

Other Important Dates

Finalists Notified: Late December 2025
In-Person Interviews: Late January 2026, by country
Selection Notification: March 1, 2026
Program Start Date: August 2026 (Full-Time enrollment at UNC)

Frequently Asked Questions

Academic Expectations & Course Credit Transfers

How many classes will I need to take at Carolina?

Morehead-Cain Global Fellows will be full-time students at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Full-time enrollment requires 30-36 credit hours per year (5-6 courses per semester).

Will this program provide a transcript, certificate, or any other formal recognition of completion?

Upon completion of their studies at UNC, students will receive an official UNC transcript with the courses they completed. Students will not graduate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and are expected to return to their home institution to graduate.Morehead-Cain Global Fellows will also receive an official certificate from the Morehead-Cain Foundation naming them a Morehead-Cain Global Fellow.

What classes will I be able to take?

Students will have access to courses offered at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. View available courses in the UNC Course Catalog.While seats in high-demand courses may be limited, we are committed to working with you to create a schedule that aligns with your goals and ensures a great academic experience.

What courses and majors does UNC offer?

At UNC–Chapel Hill, you’ll find over 70 majors and hundreds of courses designed to challenge and inspire you. Whether you’re drawn to Business, Computer Science, Public Health, or Journalism, or you would like to explore fields like Global Studies, Neuroscience, or Environmental Science, UNC offers the flexibility and resources to help you shape your future. With world-class faculty, hands-on learning opportunities, and a vibrant academic community, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills to make a real impact.

Do I have to take courses related to my major?

No, you are not required to take courses related to your major. You may choose to explore courses outside your field of study, including those not traditionally offered at your home institution. This is a unique opportunity to broaden your academic experience, even if some courses do not transfer back. An additional year as a college student allows you to expand your knowledge, develop new perspectives, and become a more well-rounded individual.

How will course credits transfer?

Students will be responsible for coordinating with their home institution regarding course credit transfers. While we cannot guarantee that every course required for your major will be available, we believe the Morehead-Cain Global Fellows experience offers an unparalleled opportunity for academic and personal growth. Our team will work closely with each selected global fellow to provide guidance and support throughout this process, ensuring you make the most of this enriching experience.

Beyond academics, what else does the University of North Carolina have to offer?

UNC–Chapel Hill offers a vibrant campus life filled with opportunities for personal growth, leadership, and community engagement. As a Morehead-Cain Global Fellow, you'll have access to over 800 student organizations, world-class athletics, cultural and artistic events, and outdoor adventures in the beautiful North Carolina landscape. From engaging in social impact initiatives to exploring the Research Triangle’s dynamic innovation scene, UNC provides a well-rounded experience that extends far beyond the classroom.

More FAQs

Have Questions?

If you or your nominator have any questions about the process, contact us at global@moreheadcain.org. Additional details are available on the Frequently Asked Questions page.