Obama Foundation Scholarship Programmes - Fully Funded, Check out on how to Apply and Application Processes.

The Obama Foundation Scholarship Programs are designed to empower emerging leaders who have shown a commitment to public service and community impact. These programs aim to equip participants with the skills, networks, and inspiration needed to tackle some of the world's most pressing issues. Here’s an overview:

1. Columbia University Obama Foundation Scholars Program

Location: New York, USA

Eligibility: Young professionals from around the world who are active in public service, either through their careers or volunteer work, and are committed to returning to their communities to make an impact.

Program Structure: This full-time, fully-funded program lasts for one academic year and includes an immersive curriculum designed to deepen participants' understanding of global challenges and effective leadership. Scholars are also given opportunities to connect with thought leaders, learn from community leaders, and participate in Obama Foundation-led activities.

Benefits: Full tuition, monthly living stipend, housing, health insurance, and travel expenses to and from the home country.

To apply for the 2025-2026 Columbia University Obama Foundation Scholars Program, you can access the application on the official Columbia Scholarship Application Website . The program aims to empower leaders from around the world who are dedicated to addressing community and global challenges. The application deadline is December 16, 2024, at 5 PM EST.

The Obama Foundation Scholars Program includes a fully-funded nine-month residency at Columbia, involving academic courses, leadership workshops, and mentorship through Columbia World Projects. This immersive program is designed to enhance the skills of Scholars, with opportunities for networking, professional development, and a “Thought Leadership” series. Scholars will also participate in experiential learning to further develop their impact on their communities upon returning home.

For more detailed information and to apply, visit the Columbia Scholarship Application Website .

2. University of Chicago Obama Foundation Scholars Program

Location: Chicago, USA

The University of Chicago Obama Foundation Scholars Program is designed for emerging leaders who are actively working on impactful social initiatives. This one-year program offers a range of learning and development experiences, including in-person seminars, virtual workshops, and faculty-led sessions on applied social change. Scholars develop an action plan to address specific challenges in their communities while gaining insights from leaders in Chicago and worldwide. The program also includes quarterly civic treks and interaction with an alumni network to support their leadership growth.

To apply, you can start your application through the official University of Chicago Obama Foundation Scholarship .

Eligibility: Similar to the Columbia program, this scholarship targets individuals worldwide who are dedicated to improving their communities. Scholars typically have a history of leadership, community involvement, and are enthusiastic about contributing to the public good.

Program Structure: Based at the Harris School of Public Policy, this program allows scholars to enhance their policy knowledge and engage with global issues directly. Scholars work on projects relevant to their areas of interest and gain insights through workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities.

Benefits: The program offers a tuition waiver, housing, health insurance, and a stipend for living expenses, as well as support for travel costs to and from Chicago.

Application Process & Tips for Success

Timing: Applications usually open annually in the fall and are highly competitive.

Application Requirements: Applicants generally need to submit a statement of purpose, CV, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Demonstrated commitment to public service and leadership is critical.

Tips for Success:

Showcase Impact: Highlight concrete examples of your community work, public service, or social impact projects.

Align with the Mission: Emphasize how your work aligns with the Obama Foundation's mission of inspiring, empowering, and connecting people to change their world.

Long-term Vision: Clearly articulate your vision for how you intend to use the skills and connections gained to make a lasting impact on your community or region.

Program Impact

Obama Scholars join a global network of changemakers, gaining mentorship and the ability to collaborate on global initiatives. The program’s alumni have gone on to create significant social, economic, and environmental impact in their respective communities.

For the latest details on the application timeline and requirements, you can visit the Obama Foundation Scholarship Programmes .

To succeed in securing a scholarship, especially competitive ones like the Obama Foundation Scholars Program, here are several key strategies:

1. Understand and Align with Program Goals: Scholarship programs often seek candidates whose goals align with their mission. For the Obama Foundation Scholars Program, emphasize your commitment to social change, leadership potential, and your vision for impacting your community. Demonstrate a clear understanding of how the program's values and offerings connect with your personal mission and goals.

2. Highlight Relevant Experience and Impact: Show specific examples of your past work in social impact or public service. Highlight initiatives you've led, any challenges you've overcome, and the measurable impact you've made. If you’ve worked on community-based projects or policy initiatives, detail these experiences and their outcomes to show your readiness for the program.

3. Craft a Strong Personal Statement: The personal statement is often the heart of your application. Be genuine and reflective in describing your journey, what drives you, and why you’re passionate about social change. Describe how the scholarship will help you scale your work or deepen your expertise, linking this to specific aspects of the program.

4. Secure Strong Recommendations: Letters of recommendation are crucial as they validate your achievements and character. Choose recommenders who know you well, ideally people who have supervised your work in social change or community development, and can speak to your impact, leadership, and commitment to public service.

5. Develop a Clear Action Plan: For programs like the Obama Foundation Scholars, applicants often need to propose an actionable plan for addressing issues in their communities. Outline a realistic, detailed plan of how you’ll use the skills and connections gained to create impact after the program. Highlight both short-term goals and your broader vision.

6. Prepare for Interviews Thoughtfully: If shortlisted, prepare thoroughly for the interview. Be ready to discuss your experiences, aspirations, and understanding of the scholarship program. Practicing with mock interviews and seeking feedback can improve your clarity and confidence.

By thoughtfully tailoring your application, demonstrating past impact, and articulating a compelling vision for the future, you’ll present yourself as a strong candidate for scholarship programs focused on leadership and community transformation.