To assist the scholars, the Obama Foundation provides a rigorous leadership development curriculum, training, networking opportunities, and specialized assistance throughout the academic year. Through this program, Obama Scholars may acquire practical knowledge, expertise, and resources to increase the impact of their work when they return home.

The Obama Foundation Scholars Program at Columbia University brings together rising leaders from the United States and worldwide who have demonstrated a commitment to finding solutions to challenges in their communities and countries. Scholars complete a fully funded 9-month residency on campus at Columbia World Projects, deepening their knowledge and skills and building new capacities and networks to accelerate their impact.

Details

• Opportunity type: Fully Funded
• Opportunity: Scholarship
• Scholarship Level: Leadership
• Foundation: Obama
• University: Columbia University
• Duration: one year
• Application type: Online
• Availability: International
• Gender: Male and Female
• Deadline: Complete the online application form by 5 p.m. ET on December 12, 2023.

Eligibility

• Emerging leaders who have made significant contributions to their field and are now experiencing a breakthrough moment in their careers
• The applicant must have a demonstrated track record of serving and leading a community, region, or country. They should also show a dedication to returning to these communities after completing the program and use their improved skills, training, and connections for the long-term benefit of these communities. Any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors have been corrected.
• Are fluent in English (verbal, written, and spoken)
• Have the ability and inclination to shape the future of their community positively
• Demonstrate commitment to inclusivity, community, hope, courage, imagination, strategy, accountability, integrity, and resilience.

Documents

• Complete the online application form
• The resume/curriculum vitae
• The personal video statement
• The short essay questions
• Two letters of recommendation
• Proof of English proficiency
• Minimum Scores
  • TOEFL: Internet-Based Exam: 100
  • TOEFL: Paper-Based Exam: 600
  • International English Language Testing System Academic: 7
  • Pearson Test of English Academic: 68
  • Duolingo English Test: 120 (75 on the exam taken prior to July 2019)