Obama Foundation Scholars Program 2026
About this scholarship
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program supports emerging leaders from around the world to deepen their impact through academic study, leadership development, and practical experience.
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program is an international leadership development programme run by The Obama Foundation. It is designed for rising leaders who have a clear record of service and impact in their communities and who are ready to strengthen their skills, expand their networks, and accelerate their public-interest work.
The programme is hosted through university partners in the United States and typically combines academic coursework, leadership training, networking, and experiential learning. Rather than serving as a general degree scholarship open to all applicants, it is aimed at individuals with professional experience and a demonstrated commitment to solving public challenges in areas such as civic engagement, social innovation, public policy, community development, and inclusive leadership.
Funding generally covers major participation costs and is intended to make the programme accessible to selected scholars. Depending on the host institution and programme structure, support may include tuition and fees for the academic component, a living stipend, accommodation or housing support, health insurance, and travel related to participation.
Applicants are usually expected to show significant leadership potential, a sustained commitment to public service, and the ability to return to their communities with stronger tools and networks. The programme is internationally focused and welcomes candidates from many countries. Application procedures, eligibility rules, and timelines may vary by host institution and programme cycle, so candidates should review the current Obama Foundation Scholars information and partner-university guidance before applying.
- Leadership-focused rather than a general merit scholarship
- Typically hosted in the United States through partner universities
- Best suited to emerging leaders with proven community impact
Eligibility
Who can apply for this scholarship
Open to emerging leaders with a demonstrated record of service, impact, and commitment to addressing public challenges. Applicants are typically expected to have professional experience, leadership potential, and a plan to apply what they learn to benefit their communities after the programme.
Requirements
Documents typically needed to apply
Language requirements
English proficiency is typically required for participation in the university-based programme.
Where you can use this
Open positions accepting Obama Foundation Scholars Program.