The Global Nursing Leadership Institute is an annual leadership-development programme run by the International Council of Nurses for senior nurse leaders and executives worldwide. It develops participants’ ability to shape health and social policy through political analysis, advocacy, evidence framing and communication.
The programme combines online modules with a required residential week in Geneva, where scholars take part in intensive learning, visit WHO headquarters and meet global health leaders. Participants also develop regional policy projects aligned with WHO regional priorities.
Benefits & funding
- Scholars receive structured policy-leadership development, access to ICN, WHO and other global and regional health institutions, and opportunities to join a worldwide peer network.
- Successful completion awards 52 International Continuing Nursing Education Credits and eligibility to join the GNLI Alumni Network.
- Successful applicants are normally expected to arrange their own funding. Partial or full bursaries may be available to candidates from low- and lower-middle-income countries, but ICN does not publish the amount or covered costs.
Eligibility
- Applicants should be senior nurse leaders or executives.
- Nurses worldwide may apply; ICN states no nationality or residency restriction.
- Strong reading, writing and speaking skills in English are required because the programme is delivered entirely in English; proof may be required where applicable.
- Scholars must participate in at least 80% of scheduled online sessions in Modules 1 and 3 and attend the entire residential week in Geneva.
- Selected applicants must arrange funding unless they receive a bursary.
Can you apply?
Open to all applicants
No nationality, residency, education, or experience limits are listed.
Circlebreaker is a free database of global fellowships, scholarships and programs — every one decoded like this.
We only check the criteria we have data for. Always confirm full eligibility on the official page before applying.
Application process
- 1Monitor the official GNLI page for the next annual application window.
- 2Prepare an updated résumé, a short introductory video, a letter of support, a recommendation letter and proof of English proficiency if applicable.
- 3Submit a complete application through the official online form before the published deadline.
- 4If shortlisted, attend a short virtual interview with the GNLI Directors if invited.
Program timeline
15 November 2025
Applications opened for the 2026 cohort
Application deadline
9 January 2026
Online Module 1 all-scholar kickoff
9 June 2026
Date not published
Residential Module 2 week in Geneva
Date not published
Programme completion