Obama Foundation’s fully funded scholarship Program now accepting applications for 2022-2023 cohort

The Obama Foundation Scholars Program at Columbia University in New York, is a fully funded leadership development program that brings together rising leaders from the United States, and around the world, who have demonstrated a commitment to finding solutions to challenging issues in their communities, countries, and regions.

Over the course of an academic year at Columbia University, Obama Foundation Scholars deepen their knowledge and skills and build new capacities and networks to accelerate their impact in their home countries.

Upon completion of the program, scholars, empowered by their experience, return to the regions and continue along a path of service, with the knowledge and networks they have gained.

The deadline to submit an application for the 2022-2023 Obama Foundation Scholars Program is December 22 at 5PM ET.

Scholar Benefits

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

Eligibility Requirements

The Obama Foundation Scholars Program at Columbia University seeks rising leaders from the United States and around the world who meet the following criteria:

• Are emerging leaders who have made meaningful contributions to their field and are now at a “breakthrough moment” in their careers
• Have a proven commitment to service and leadership within a community, region or country, coupled with a demonstrated commitment to return to these communities following their completion of the program and apply their enhanced training, skills, and connections on a long-term basis for the benefit of these communities
• Are fluent in English (verbal, written and spoken)
• Have the ability and inclination to positively shape the future of their community
• Have a demonstrated commitment to inclusivity, community-orientation, hope, courage, imagination, strategy, accountability, integrity and resilience

2022-2023 Application

A complete application, submitted entirely online, includes the following materials:

Complete online application form

Complete the online application form by December 22 at 5PM ET.

Resume/curriculum vitae

The resume/curriculum vitae should be a chronological listing of your employment and academic history, and other significant activities, including any awards, publications, or other achievements․

Personal video statement

The personal video statement should be a short video (no longer than three minutes in length) introducing the applicant and their work to the selection committee. Applicants will upload their video statement to a video hosting service, like YouTube or Vimeo, and will include a link to their video in the online application. Additional information on the requirements for the personal video statement can be found in the online application.

Responses to short essay questions

The short essay questions help the selection committee understand the applicant’s work, their motivation and how the program fits into their career trajectory. Applicants will submit their essay questions in the online application.

Proof of English proficiency

Applicants whose native language is not English are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language by submitting scores from one of four exams: The internet-based or paper-based exams of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL); the International English Language Testing System (IELTS); the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic); or the Duolingo English Test (DET). No other exams will be accepted.

Two letters of recommendation

Two letters of recommendation are required from individuals who are familiar with the applicant and the applicant’s work in an academic, professional or community service setting. Recommendations should directly address the applicant’s suitability for admission to the Obama Foundation Scholars program. Recommendations should not be written by family members or friends.

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Source: worldprojects.columbia.edu