Obama Foundation Scholars at Columbia University 2025-26

The Obama Foundation Scholars program at Columbia University is an immersive program designed to bring together emerging leaders from around the world to participate in academic, skills-based, and experiential learning. The program is conducted in partnership with the Obama Foundation and is based at Columbia World Projects.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicant :

• must be Emerging leaders who have made meaningful contributions to their field and are at a breakthrough moment in their careers.
• must have a proven commitment to service and leadership within a community, region, or country, and a commitment to return to these communities following completion of the program.
• must be Fluent in English (verbal, written, and spoken).
• should have demonstrated commitment to inclusivity, community orientation, hope, courage, imagination, strategy, accountability, integrity, and resilience.

Value of the Scholarship :

• Monthly stipend for living expenses in New York City.
• Furnished studio apartment within walking distance of Columbia University.
• All tuition and fees for up to four courses at Columbia University.
• Basic medical, dental, and life insurance for the duration of the program.
• Air travel to and from home country and any program-related activities.

Application Process :

• Complete the online application form.
• Submit a resume/curriculum vitae, personal video statement, responses to short essay questions, proof of English proficiency, and two letters of recommendation.

Deadlines:

The application for the 2024-2025 cohort is currently closed. Applicants are encouraged to follow social media channels for updates on when the 2025-2026 application will become available in Fall 2024.