International Leaders

Preparing women and men to preach the good news of Jesus Christ throughout the world

The ELCA International Leadership Development Program seeks to enhance the capacity of the global church for mission and ministry. The program provides financial awards to support the short- and long-term academic training of established and emerging leaders in global companion churches and institutions. After their studies, students return to their home countries ready to assume important leadership roles — from becoming a bishop to winning the Nobel Peace Prize.

The scholarship selection process is driven by our global companion churches, who assess their current situations and goals to determine areas most in need of new, highly trained leadership. The companion church then selects and endorses candidates to receive scholarships. The ELCA accepts only those applications that have been endorsed by a companion. Most scholarship students pursue advanced theological degrees; a few study for non-theological degrees. Prospective students are encouraged to first contact their home church before contacting the ELCA. Applications for scholarship support are due to ELCA Global Mission by Oct. 15 for programs beginning the following fall. 

Learn how to support international women leaders by clicking here.

For more information, call 800-638-3522.