Obama Foundation Scholars at Columbia University 2025

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.