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About GNLI

The International Council of Nurses' flagship leadership programme for senior nurses seeking to influence health policy and strengthen leadership impact at local, national and global levels.

The Global Nursing Leadership Institute™ (GNLI), a programme of the ICN Leadership Centre is an 18-month policy leadership programme. Through online learning, global collaboration and an immersive residential experience in Geneva, scholars strengthen their ability to lead policy and health system change.

Participants who complete the programme:

  • Develop policy leadership skills
  • Expand global professional networks
  • Learn alongside senior nurse leaders from around the world
  • Receive a Certificate of Completion
  • Earn 52 International Continuing Nursing Education Credits (ICNEC)
  • Join the GNLI Alumni Network

Programme Dates


Milestone Date
Applications Open 5 November
Application Deadline 22 December
Interviews January 2027
Scholar Notification March 2027
Programme Start 14 June 2027
Geneva Residential Week 15–22 October 2027
Project Presentations July 2028
Programme Completion December 2028


Scholar notification occurs in March following the selection process.

Programme Fees


Country Income Category ICN NNA Member Non-ICN NNA Member
High Income Countries CHF 6,000 CHF 7,000
Upper-Middle Income Countries CHF 6,000 CHF 7,000
Lower-Middle Income Countries CHF 4,000 CHF 4,500
Low Income Countries CHF 3,500 CHF 4,000

Funding Support

Full and partial bursaries may be available for applicants from low- and lower-middle-income countries.

How to Apply

1. Register

Click on the "Register" link and complete and submit the registration form.

2. Login

Login to the award with your email and password.

3. Create

Create your online application. 

4. Save

During the Call for Applications period, your application can be saved as DRAFT until all the required information is completed and attachments uploaded. As each section is complete, you will see a appear in the category tab when the application is saved. At any time, you can download and print your application by clicking on the icon in the Application Summary section.

5. Submit

On completion, save your Application as FINAL. Download and print a copy of your application for your records by clicking on the icon in the Application Summary section in the right column. Only fully completed applications submitted by 22 December 2026 will be reviewed.

Note: If an update is required prior to the Call for Applications period, you can make the update and resave as FINAL.

If you require assistance or additional information, please contact the Program Administrator.

Applicant Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Be a nurse, having a recognized nursing qualification and current professional registration
  • Be able and permitted to travel internationally, particularly from 15-22 October 2027.
  • Have a valid passport.
  • Have access to stable Wi-Fi.
  • Have access to a private space for the online sessions.
  • Have or have access to a laptop or computer.
Required Application Documents

In addition, applicants must submit:

  • Updated CV/résumé.
  • Short introductory video.
  • Employer support letter.
  • Recommendation letter.

Key Dates

Applications Open:
Nov 5, 2026
Applications Close:
Dec 22, 2026 at 11:59 pm EST

Contact Us

International Council of Nurses
3, place Jean Marteau
1201 Geneva, Switzerland
Email:   gnli@icn.ch
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