The application for the 2025-2026 Obama Foundation Scholars Program at Columbia University is now open!
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program at Columbia University is a transformative initiative designed to empower rising leaders from around the world. This program offers a fully-funded 9-month residency at Columbia World Projects, where scholars engage in academic, skills-based, and experiential learning. Through workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities, participants develop their leadership abilities and work on innovative solutions to global challenges. The program aims to create a network of values-driven leaders committed to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Program Description
Obama Foundation Scholars at Columbia University are based at Columbia World Projects, an initiative that mobilizes the university’s researchers and scholars to work with governments, organizations, businesses, and communities to create tangible solutions to real-world issues. The program takes advantage of the unique opportunities for engagement that come with being at one of the world’s most important centers of research and residing in New York City.
Key Components of the Program
1. Weekly Seminar
A Weekly Seminar that runs the length of the academic year, exploring questions in tandem with key global trends including inequality, technological developments, the diffusion of power, population movements, and climate change.
2. Personal and Professional Development Workshops
The program includes workshops and seminars focused on developing practical skills needed for effective leadership.
3. An Experiential Learning
An Experiential Learning component that engages Scholars in the work of Columbia World Projects.
4. Audited Coursework
Audited Coursework that provides Scholars with the flexibility to select and enroll in up to two graduate level courses each semester at Columbia.
5. Thought Leadership Speaker Series
A Thought Leadership Speaker Series that introduces Scholars to seasoned practitioners from the NGO community, and philanthropic, governmental, and international organizations to expand Scholars’ networks and perspectives to help advance their work.
6. Engagement
Meaningful opportunities for Scholars to contribute to the intellectual life of the campus and gain exposure to different perspectives by engaging with the Columbia University community.
Scholar Benefits
Monthly stipend to assist with living expenses in New York City
A furnished studio apartment within walking distance of Columbia University
Tuition and fees for up to four courses at Columbia University
Insurance; Basic medical, dental and life insurance for the duration of the program in New York City
Air travel to and from home country and any program-related activities
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants can be from any nationality.
Must be an emerging young leader making a positive impact in their communities.
Proven commitment to service and leadership within a community, region, or country.
Must commit to returning to their community after completing the program.
Should be fluent in English (verbal, written, and spoken).
Ability and inclination to positively shape the future of their community.
Demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity, community-orientation, hope, courage, imagination, strategy, accountability, integrity, and resilience.
Application Procedure
1. Complete the online application form:
Submit your application through the provided online platform.
2. Upload required documents:
Include your resume/curriculum vitae, a personal video statement, and responses to short essay questions. Details about application documents and procedures can be found here.
3. Submit by the deadline:
Ensure your application is complete and submitted by December 16 at 5 PM EST.
ℹ️ See Further information on the official page.
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