For aspiring leaders throughout the globe, the Obama Foundation Scholars Program 2025–2026 provides a life-changing leadership opportunity. This program, which is being held at Columbia University in New York City, offers complete financial assistance, including tuition, living expenses, and travel expenses. Through specialized instruction and practical experience, scholars acquire important insights to promote social change on a worldwide scale. The Obama Foundation Scholars Program is intended for professionals who are dedicated to public service and develop leadership abilities via an immersive curriculum and chances for networking. Through participatory workshops, mentorship, and cooperative projects, scholars are able to address global issues. The goal of this program is to equip leaders to bring lasting, meaningful solutions back to their communities.
About Columbia University
Columbia University is a unique and outstanding learning environment for undergraduate and graduate students in many academic and professional sectors. It is also one of the most significant research centers in the world. The university aims to connect its research and instruction to the wealth of a great city because it understands how important its position in New York City is. Its goals are to draw in a varied and international student body, professors, and staff, to foster global problems research and instruction, and to establish scholarly ties with numerous nations and areas. It demands that all branches of the university promote learning and knowledge at the greatest possible level and share the results of their work with the world.
Objective of Obama Foundation Scholars Program
The primary objective of the Obama Foundation Scholars Program is to provide financial assistance to hardworking and deserving students. Participants from the United States and other countries who are actively engaged, enthusiastic, and have a track record of overcoming obstacles in their communities and nations are eligible to apply for the Obama Foundation Fellowship. Finding leaders who are dedicated to bringing about constructive change in their communities is the Fellowship’s main goal. In order to expand their knowledge, develop new abilities, build networks, and increase their influence, the participants will spend nine months at Columbia University in New York.
Key Highlights of Obama Foundation Scholars Program
| Name of the scholarship | Obama Foundation Scholars Program |
| Host University | University of Columbia |
| Funded by | Obama Foundation |
| Beneficiary | International students and American students also |
| Course duration | 9 months |
| Benefits | Itis not an academic course, it is a character and personal development course and workshop |
| Official website | https://obama.org/presidential-center/campus/ |
Field of Study
- workshops,
- mentorship,
- cooperative projects,
- global issues
- public service
Eligibility Criteria
- Worldwide, up-and-coming leaders are encouraged to apply.
- Candidates need to have significantly advanced their fields of expertise.
- Effective leadership is necessary.
- A track record of providing excellent service is crucial.
- Candidates must be committed to giving back to their communities once the program is over.
- Implementing networking, skills, and training for the benefit of the community is essential.
- Capacity to influence their communities’ destiny in a favorable way
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
Important Dates
| Scholarship | Last Date |
| Last date to apply for the Obama Foundation Scholars Program | 16th December 2024. |
Required Documents
- Complete the online application form
- Provide a resume/CV of your employment and education
- Submit a personal video statement (max. 3 minutes)
- Answer essay questions about your motivations
- Include proof of English proficiency (TOEFL 100, IELTS 7.0, PTE 68, or Duolingo 120)
- Provide two letters of recommendation
Financial Benefits
- Living allowance per month in New York City
- Studio apartment with furniture close to Columbia University
- Fees and tuition for a maximum of four courses
- Basic life, health, and dental insurance
- Round-trip airfare and travel associated with the program
Selection process
- The candidates will be selected on the basis of their application, and how powerful and supportive their essays are.
Application process
- Go to the official website and fill out the online application.
- Upload a CV or resume that highlights your accomplishments and efforts.
- Make a three-minute personal video message that introduces you.
- Respond to the essay questions by discussing your objectives and driving forces.
- Examine the application instructions to make sure all prerequisites are satisfied.
- Verify the submitted documents’ correctness and clarity.
- Keep an eye on your email for confirmation and more guidelines.
FAQ‘s
Que – What is the Obama Foundation Scholars Program?
Ans – For aspiring leaders throughout the globe, the Obama Foundation Scholars Program 2025–2026 provides a life-changing leadership opportunity.
Que – Who funds this program?
Ans – The Obama Foundation supports and funds this scholar’s program.
Que – Which university hosts this program?
Ans – This program, which is being held at Columbia University in New York City, offers complete financial assistance, including tuition, living expenses, and travel expenses
