Social Impact Scholarship Fund

About

The Social Impact Scholarship Fund at the Tergar Institute provides exceptional individuals with the opportunity to deepen their understanding of Buddhist principles and practices and apply them to create positive change in their communities. This scholarship supports students entering the 27-month Certificate in Applied Buddhism program who demonstrate a clear commitment to social impact and innovative approaches to change.

Scholarship
Offering

Full or partial tuition coverage for the 27-month Certificate in Applied Buddhism program, including both in-person and online courses (Please note, the scholarship will be distributed in phases as the program unfolds)
Full or partial room and board coverage while at Tergar Osel Ling Monastery
Increased opportunities for mentorship and guidance from Tergar Institute faculty
Potential for one-on-one time with Mingyur Rinpoche
A supportive community of like-minded individuals dedicated to positive change

Candidates

We seek individuals under-40 with a well-defined plan for a social impact project that aligns with Tergar Institute’s values. Ideal candidates demonstrate:

A strong commitment to social justice, environmental sustainability, or community well-being.
A clear vision for how they will apply Buddhist principles and practices in their work life.
A track record of leadership or initiative in their chosen field.

Scholarship
Categories

Interdisciplinary Researcher Fellowship: For those blending Buddhist philosophy with fields like Western Philosophy, Neuroscience, or Political Theory.

Social Entrepreneur Fellowship: For individuals creating NGOs, social initiatives, or using artistic expression for social good.

Community Leader Fellowship: For those building and nurturing local communities focused on growth and well-being.

Growth
Opportunities

This scholarship is more than just financial aid. It’s an opportunity to:

- Connect with a global network of changemakers.
- Receive guidance from world renowned teachers.
- Infuse your professional life with Buddhist principles and practices

How to Apply

Apply for the Foundations of Buddhist Experience Course:
Complete the standard Tergar Institute admissions process.
Submit a Scholarship Application: Once accepted, students will:
- Provide a 2-3 page narrative outlining your project and background. Please include:
  - examples of when you took initiative or showed leadership to support community or social change.
  - what motivates you and how your values or experiences shaped your actions.
  - why you feel Buddhist study and practice is important for your ongoing work or research.
- Provide their CV
- Participate in two interviews.
- Provide two references, one personal and one professional.
Evaluation: Applications are reviewed by Tergar Institute faculty.
Notification: Applicants are notified of the decision.

Key Dates

Applications for the Foundations of Buddhist Experience are open now!
Scholarship applications are open now!
Application deadline: June 1, 2027. Please note: Applications will be reviewed on a first come first serve basis until all scholarships have been awarded.

Ongoing Support

Evaluations at the end of Semester 1 and Semester 3.
Methods include self-evaluation, peer evaluation, and faculty evaluations.
Continued funding is dependent on program progress and project viability.

Other Funding Opportunities

In addition to our Social Impact Scholarship, the Tergar Institute offers General Scholarships to help make our programs more accessible to those who wish to apply, as well as Monastic Scholarships, offered through a partnership grant, for members of the monastic community. While funding is limited, we strive to support as many applicants as possible and review each request with care.

To learn more about our scholarship offerings and how to apply, please click here.

Fostering Dialogue Between Theravada and Vajrayana Traditions — Mahayano Aun