International Leaders Program (ILP)
For 35 years, the International Leaders Program has partnered with companion churches and institutions to equip leaders for mission and ministry. These experiences transform lives and strengthen the global Lutheran communion.
The program develops leaders through scholarships, camp counselor opportunities, mentoring, exchanges and workshops. A focus on equity ensures access for women, LGBTQIA+ members and other underrepresented groups.
Thousands of leaders have been equipped, shaping church and society worldwide. Their leadership multiplies impact in communities, while the ELCA benefits from the diverse gifts of the global Lutheran church.
Raising Leaders and Giving for a Global Future
A Key Expression of Accompaniment with Our Global Companions
When global companion leaders study or serve in the U.S., ELCA members, congregations, synods and companion-synod teams can deepen relationships with the global church — especially near schools where scholars learn or camps where counselors serve.
There are so many ways ELCA Global Mission is working alongside our siblings in Christ to build up God’s global church.
YAGM invites adults 21–35 into a transformative year of international service, grounded in accompaniment.
The ELCA lives out accompaniment in relationships with global companions, sharing in God’s love and mission together.
The ELCA walks with 70 million Lutherans in 79 countries to grow the church and participate in God’s reconciling work.
ILP Scholarships FAQs
ELCA scholarships support academic programs that align with the leadership priorities of the endorsing church or institution. Funding may cover short- or long-term study at many levels, single courses, certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, across diverse fields. Most scholars study in their home country, some study abroad.
The International Leaders Program accompanies global companion churches and institutions as we equip leaders for mission and ministry. Scholarships build leadership capacity aligned to each partner’s strategic goals. Thus, every application must be endorsed by an ELCA companion church or institution. By accepting an award, scholars commit to serve their endorser after study. In turn, the endorser commits to provide a suitable leadership role (paid or volunteer) that uses the skills gained.
Application forms become available every August. Access information is shared directly with the head office of each companion church or institution. Completed applications are due in October. Applications are reviewed by the International Leaders Program staff and scholarship application review committees. Final decisions are typically released by email between March and May, though the exact timing can vary.
Please review the Scholarship Application Guidelines document for detailed information on selection criteria. Our reviewers score applications based on factors such as alignment with strategic leadership priorities of the endorsing church or institution, commitment to service, application quality, track record of leadership or leadership potential, study location and cost.
Scholarship offers are tailored to each applicant and may be full or partial, depending on the quality of the application, stated needs, and available funds. Awards primarily cover tuition and fees, with some living costs also included. Submit an itemized budget with the school’s fee schedule; the committee may adjust amounts. No retroactive costs are covered; therefore, applicants who have not yet begun their studies are prioritized. Family-member expenses are typically not supported. Offer details are provided for acceptance.
Scholarship applications are online and vary by type. Each includes short and essay questions, plus required documents: endorsement from a companion church or institution, at least one recommendation, transcripts and program materials (budget, admission info). You may apply before admission, but an official acceptance letter is required before any award can be activated.
Applications are completed online through the ELCA GrantMaker system. Instructions for accessing the applications are found in the Scholarship Application Guidelines document. Only applicants endorsed by a companion church or institution of the ELCA are permitted to apply. Do not begin an application unless you are properly endorsed.
If your church or institution has a formal ELCA relationship, contact its head office for nomination and endorsement guidance. All applications require an official endorsement (e.g., bishop, president, general secretary) that commits to a leadership role tied to your study. You commit to serve. Application links go to head offices in August and completed applications are due in October.
