2024/2025 Fully Funded Obama Foundation Scholars Programme at Columbia University.
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program at Columbia University, a part of Columbia World Projects and Columbia Global, launched the application for its seventh cohort today, inviting rising leaders from around the world to apply to participate in a nine-month immersive program of academic, skill-based and experiential learning.
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program at Columbia University brings together emerging leaders from around the world who have demonstrated a commitment to finding solutions to challenges in their communities, countries and regions. Over the course of an academic year, Obama Foundation Scholars have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and skills and build new capacities and networks that accelerate their impact in their home countries. Current and previous Scholars hail from the U.S. and around the world and are accomplished practitioners in a range of fields including education, community and civic engagement, and sustainable development.

Columbia University stands as one of the oldest and most prestigious Ivy League institutions in the United States. Situated in New York City, it boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1754. Renowned for its academic excellence and diverse student body, Columbia has established itself as a global leader in higher education, research, and innovation.
The university comprises multiple undergraduate and graduate schools, including Columbia College, the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, the School of General Studies, and various professional schools such as the Columbia Law School, Business School, and Journalism School, among others.
Columbia University prides itself on offering a wide array of academic programs across disciplines, ranging from humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences to professional studies. Its faculty includes distinguished scholars, Nobel laureates, and experts in their respective fields, fostering an intellectually stimulating environment for students.
The university’s location in New York City provides unparalleled opportunities for students to engage with a vibrant cultural scene, access internships at top companies, and immerse themselves in a diverse and dynamic community.
Columbia University is renowned for its cutting-edge research initiatives and contributions to various fields, including medicine, engineering, business, and the arts. It has played a pivotal role in numerous groundbreaking discoveries and advancements, solidifying its position as a leader in pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.
Eligibility Requirements For The Obama Foundation Scholars Program
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
Please note: Priority will be given to applicants who have not matriculated at Columbia University. The fellowship is a full-time, residential program at Columbia and cannot be undertaken at the same time as a degree program.
Benefits
- Monthly stipend to assist with living expenses in New York City
- A 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 in New York City
- Air travel to and from home country and any program-related activities
Application Requirements
Complete online application form
Complete the online application form by 5 p.m. ET on December 12, 2023.
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.
Application Deadline: December 12, 2023 at 5 p.m. EST.
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