Discover everything about the Obama Foundation Scholars Program for international students, including eligibility, benefits, how to apply, selection criteria, and tips for success. If you’re an international student aspiring to be a global change-maker, the Obama Foundation Scholars Program offers an exceptional opportunity to develop your leadership skills, expand your global network, and make a lasting impact in your community. Founded by former U.S. President Barack Obama, this program is more than just a scholarship — it’s a transformational journey.
Whether you’re from Africa, Asia, Latin America, or the Middle East, this in-depth guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Obama Foundation Scholars Program for international students, from eligibility to application tips.
What Is the Obama Foundation Scholars Program?
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program is a prestigious leadership development initiative designed to empower emerging leaders from around the world. Its primary mission is to identify individuals who are making significant contributions in their communities and equip them with the advanced skills, knowledge, and networks needed to scale their impact.
This program blends immersive academic learning with practical, hands-on experience and rich global networking opportunities. Scholars are exposed to a curriculum that encourages critical thinking, innovative problem-solving, and cross-sector collaboration, all while being immersed in a diverse cohort of fellow leaders. This combination fosters an environment where scholars can reflect on their leadership journeys, gain new perspectives, and build actionable strategies for driving change.
The program is hosted annually at two world-renowned institutions:
- Columbia University in New York City
- The University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy
Both institutions provide unique yet complementary experiences. Columbia’s program focuses on leadership training through workshops, seminars, and a non-degree academic curriculum, designed to sharpen scholars’ practical leadership abilities and policy understanding. Meanwhile, the University of Chicago offers a more academic-intensive route through a master’s degree program that delves into international development and public policy.
The overarching focus of the program is to prepare participants to return to their home countries and continue their impactful work with fresh insight, expanded resources, and a global support network. Ultimately, the Obama Foundation Scholars Program aims to create ripple effects of positive change, empowering leaders who are deeply rooted in their local contexts to contribute to global progress.
Program History and Legacy
Established by the Obama Foundation in 2017, the Scholars Program was part of a broader vision to develop a new generation of global leaders capable of addressing complex social, economic, and political challenges. Inspired by his time in office and his grassroots organizing experience, Barack Obama envisioned a leadership platform that could nurture promising changemakers from diverse backgrounds. His goal was to create an ecosystem where talented leaders—especially those working within civil society, public service, entrepreneurship, and nonprofit sectors—could gain the tools, exposure, and networks necessary to maximize their impact.
In its inaugural year, the program brought together a small but powerful cohort of leaders who were already making strides in their home communities. The success and visibility of these early scholars helped build momentum, and the program has since expanded in scope and reputation. By 2024, hundreds of scholars from over 50 countries had participated, with alumni leading innovative initiatives in areas such as climate change, gender equity, economic empowerment, health care reform, and human rights advocacy.
The program’s growing alumni network serves as a testament to its enduring legacy. Many alumni have returned home to assume higher leadership roles, launch new organizations, or scale up their existing projects with new vigor and expanded global perspectives. The ripple effects of their work continue to inspire and empower communities worldwide.
The program is deeply rooted in the values of:
- Civic leadership, emphasizing integrity, accountability, and commitment to the public good
- Public service, encouraging participants to prioritize the well-being of others and work toward equitable societies
- Empathy and inclusion, fostering respect for diversity and ensuring marginalized voices are heard and represented
- Global collaboration, promoting cross-border partnerships and the sharing of best practices for collective advancement
Over the years, the Obama Foundation Scholars Program has cemented its place as a transformative force in the global leadership landscape, shaping a new era of changemakers who are united by a common vision of creating a fairer, more just world.
Host Institutions: University of Chicago and Columbia University
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program is hosted at two prestigious institutions, each offering a unique educational environment that combines academic rigor with practical leadership development. Both institutions are globally renowned for their excellence in public policy, international affairs, and civic leadership, making them ideal settings for nurturing the next generation of changemakers.
Columbia University (New York City)
At Columbia University, scholars engage in a non-degree program that emphasizes intensive leadership development, cross-disciplinary learning, and real-world experience. The program is based at Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), a top-tier institution known for its expertise in global public policy and international relations.
Scholars participate in a series of workshops, seminars, and immersive learning sessions that are tailored to their specific leadership goals. These include practical modules on community organizing, policy development, strategic communications, and coalition-building. The program also incorporates opportunities to attend public lectures, panel discussions, and networking events across New York City, providing scholars with firsthand exposure to thought leaders, policymakers, and influential practitioners.
In addition to academic enrichment, scholars are encouraged to engage with local organizations and community projects, enabling them to apply their learning in real-world contexts. The vibrant, multicultural setting of New York City serves as an invaluable backdrop, offering exposure to a wide range of global issues and innovative solutions.
University of Chicago (Harris School of Public Policy)
At the University of Chicago, the Scholars Program takes the form of a fully funded Master’s program focused on public policy. International students admitted to this track complete a Master of Arts in International Development and Policy (MA-IDP) in one academic year, gaining in-depth knowledge and analytical tools to address complex global challenges.
The Harris School of Public Policy is renowned for its data-driven, evidence-based approach to policymaking. Scholars here engage in a rigorous curriculum that covers topics such as economic development, governance, human rights, international finance, and quantitative analysis. The program emphasizes critical thinking and the use of empirical research to craft effective policy solutions.
In addition to coursework, scholars participate in leadership development activities, workshops, and field experiences that connect theory with practice. The program also fosters strong ties with Chicago’s civic and policy communities, offering scholars opportunities to collaborate with local government agencies, nonprofits, and research institutes.
Each institution offers a slightly different structure, but both share the common mission of cultivating global leaders who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to create lasting social change. Whether scholars choose Columbia’s flexible, non-degree pathway or the University of Chicago’s intensive, degree-granting program, they become part of a global community committed to public service and transformative leadership.
Key Objectives of the Program
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program is designed with a clear mission: to empower and prepare a diverse cohort of leaders to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The program provides a dynamic environment where scholars can build their capabilities, connect with like-minded changemakers, and sharpen their vision for community transformation. It serves as a bridge between academic study and real-world action, ensuring that participants leave better equipped to drive systemic change.
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program aims to:
Strengthen the capabilities of emerging leaders by offering advanced leadership training, mentorship, and access to cutting-edge research and methodologies. Scholars are encouraged to critically assess their existing projects and identify ways to amplify their impact through strategic planning, policy influence, and organizational growth.
Foster international collaboration by bringing together leaders from a variety of cultural, professional, and geographic backgrounds. The program emphasizes the importance of learning from diverse perspectives and encourages scholars to build cross-border alliances, share best practices, and develop joint initiatives that transcend national boundaries.
Equip scholars with tools and frameworks to scale their community-based work effectively and sustainably. This includes training in areas such as resource mobilization, public policy advocacy, systems thinking, and innovative problem-solving. Scholars are guided in developing actionable strategies that address root causes of societal issues, ensuring their efforts lead to meaningful and measurable outcomes.
Encourage lifelong engagement in civic work through the Obama Foundation’s global network. Upon completion of the program, scholars become part of a vibrant alumni community that offers ongoing support, collaboration opportunities, and access to exclusive events and resources. This network ensures that the leadership journey does not end with the program but continues to evolve, creating lasting ripple effects across communities worldwide.
The program is especially beneficial to those already working on impactful projects and looking to enhance their leadership on a global stage. Whether scholars are addressing public health crises, advancing human rights, fostering economic empowerment, or innovating in education, the program offers them the knowledge, skills, and partnerships needed to take their initiatives to new heights.
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Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria for International Students
The program is highly competitive, with a focus on identifying truly impactful leaders. It seeks applicants who have a strong track record of service and the potential to make even greater contributions to society after completing the program. Here are the key eligibility criteria for international students:
- Non-U.S. Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens and current residents of countries outside the U.S. The program is designed specifically to support international leaders who are deeply rooted in their home communities.
- Proven Leadership Experience: Candidates should have at least 3–5 years of substantial experience working in roles that focus on public service, social impact, community organizing, non-governmental organizations, or social enterprises. This experience should demonstrate clear leadership, whether through launching initiatives, managing teams, or influencing policies.
- Demonstrated Commitment: Applicants must be actively engaged in work that benefits their local or national communities, especially efforts that uplift under-resourced or marginalized populations. The program prioritizes individuals who are passionate about creating tangible, long-term change and can show a history of commitment to civic engagement.
- English Proficiency: Since the program’s courses, seminars, and workshops are conducted entirely in English, candidates must have a high level of English proficiency, both written and spoken. This ensures that scholars can fully participate and contribute to the program’s academic and practical components.
- Return-to-Country Commitment: One of the core principles of the Obama Foundation Scholars Program is that scholars bring their new skills and insights back to their home countries. Therefore, applicants must commit to returning after the program concludes and continuing their work to strengthen their communities and advance positive change.
Note: There are no formal age restrictions for applicants, though most candidates tend to fall within their late 20s to early 40s. What matters most is the applicant’s leadership potential and the impact of their work, not their age.
In addition to these criteria, the program values diversity across sectors, gender, geography, and professional backgrounds, striving to create cohorts that reflect a wide array of perspectives and experiences.
Selection Process and Evaluation Metrics
The Obama Foundation employs a rigorous and holistic selection process to identify candidates who have demonstrated leadership ability and the potential to create meaningful change in their communities. The process is designed to assess both tangible achievements and the personal qualities that indicate future promise.
The Obama Foundation selects candidates based on several key metrics:
- Impact: The selection committee looks for candidates who have already made a demonstrable positive impact in their field or community. This could include measurable outcomes from initiatives they have led, policies they have influenced, or programs they have successfully implemented.
- Vision: Applicants should articulate a compelling mission and a long-term vision for social improvement. The committee values clarity of purpose and seeks candidates who have a well-thought-out plan for how they intend to expand or scale their work in the future.
- Leadership: A proven track record of taking initiative, building coalitions, leading teams, or spearheading community projects is essential. The program seeks individuals who are not only passionate but have shown they can mobilize resources and people to drive change.
- Adaptability: Scholars are expected to thrive in a multicultural, collaborative environment. The program values candidates who are open to new ideas, resilient in the face of challenges, and able to work effectively with people from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds.
- Engagement Potential: Successful candidates demonstrate a strong interest in contributing to the broader Obama Foundation network beyond the duration of the program. This includes staying connected with fellow alumni, sharing best practices, and continuing to engage with the Foundation’s global initiatives.
The selection process typically includes an initial application review, shortlisting based on the strength of the application materials, and in some cases, interviews or additional assessments. Transparency, fairness, and alignment with the Foundation’s mission are core principles of the selection process.
By applying these criteria, the program ensures that it selects scholars who are well-positioned to make lasting contributions to their communities and to the global network of civic leaders fostered by the Obama Foundation.
Benefits of the Obama Foundation Scholars Program
This program offers an extensive benefits package designed to eliminate financial barriers and allow scholars to fully dedicate themselves to personal and professional growth. Beyond financial support, the program provides access to unparalleled opportunities for mentorship, learning, and networking, creating a holistic experience that nurtures every aspect of leadership development.
Key Benefits Include:
- Full Tuition Coverage: The program covers all tuition fees directly with the university, ensuring scholars can focus entirely on their studies and leadership training without worrying about academic costs.
- Monthly Stipend: Scholars receive a generous monthly stipend to cover living expenses, including housing, food, transportation, and personal needs. This financial support allows scholars to immerse themselves in the program and the local community without the distraction of financial strain.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance is provided for the duration of the program, ensuring scholars have access to medical care and support services while living in the United States.
- Travel Costs: The program covers round-trip airfare between the scholar’s home country and the U.S., as well as local transportation for official program activities. This ensures that travel logistics do not become a barrier to participation.
- Enrichment Programming: Scholars participate in a wide range of enrichment opportunities, including workshops, seminars, site visits, and public events that expose them to innovative leaders, cutting-edge research, and global best practices. This programming is designed to deepen leadership skills and provide real-world context.
- Mentorship Opportunities: The program offers structured mentorship, connecting scholars with experienced leaders and professionals across sectors. These mentors provide guidance, career advice, and strategic support, helping scholars refine their leadership approach and expand their influence.
- Post-program Support: Even after the formal program ends, scholars remain part of the Obama Foundation’s global network. This lifelong community offers ongoing access to exclusive events, funding opportunities, collaboration prospects, and continuous learning resources, helping scholars sustain and scale their impact over time.
The benefits of the Obama Foundation Scholars Program go well beyond financial aid—they create a transformative experience that equips leaders to elevate their work to a global stage and achieve lasting, positive change.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Application Guide
Applying to the Obama Foundation Scholars Program is a multi-step process that requires careful preparation and attention to detail. To maximize your chances of success, it’s important to understand each stage and prepare your materials thoughtfully.
1. Choose Your Institution
Begin by deciding whether you want to apply to Columbia University’s non-degree program or the University of Chicago’s Master’s program. Consider your career goals, preferred learning style, and the focus of each institution’s curriculum to determine which path aligns best with your leadership development needs.
2. Review Application Timeline
The application process typically begins in Fall (September–October) and closes in December or January. It’s essential to check the specific timeline for your chosen institution, as deadlines and requirements may vary slightly between Columbia and Chicago.
3. Prepare Application Materials
Start gathering the required materials early to ensure you have ample time for review and revisions. Commonly required documents include:
- Personal statement or essays outlining your leadership journey, community impact, and goals
- Updated resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
- Proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
- Academic transcripts from previous institutions
- Two or more letters of recommendation from professional or academic references
Invest time in crafting compelling essays that clearly communicate your vision, passion, and suitability for the program.
4. Submit Application
Each institution has its own online application portal where you will upload your documents and complete your submission. Double-check that all components are completed and submitted before the deadline, as late or incomplete applications are typically not considered.
5, Interview
If you are shortlisted, you may be invited to a virtual interview. This is an opportunity to elaborate on your application, demonstrate your communication skills, and answer questions about your leadership experience and future plans. Prepare by reviewing your application thoroughly and practicing responses to common interview questions.
By following these steps carefully and dedicating time to showcase your strengths and vision, you will strengthen your candidacy for this highly competitive and transformative program.
Required Documents for Application
While specific document requirements may differ slightly between Columbia University and the University of Chicago, the following materials are generally required to complete your application. Preparing these thoroughly is crucial, as they collectively demonstrate your readiness and suitability for the program:
Completed Online Application Form
This is the first official step and includes personal information, educational background, and professional details. Ensure accuracy and completeness.
Resume or CV (2 pages max)
Your resume should clearly outline your educational background, professional experience, leadership roles, honors, and relevant skills. Prioritize clarity and focus on achievements rather than just duties.
Personal Statement or Essays (500–1,000 words each)
You may be asked to respond to specific prompts about your leadership journey, community impact, future goals, and how participation in the program will enhance your work. These essays are a critical part of the application and allow the selection committee to understand your personal motivations and vision.
Proof of Leadership Work (e.g., project reports, videos, media features)
Evidence of your impact is highly valued. This could include links to articles or media features about your work, videos of your initiatives, project documentation, or other relevant materials that showcase your leadership in action.
Academic Transcripts
Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended are required to verify your educational qualifications.
Two to Three Letters of Recommendation
Choose referees who can provide specific examples of your leadership abilities, achievements, and character. Letters from supervisors, mentors, or academic advisors who have closely observed your work are ideal.
English Proficiency Test Results (TOEFL/IELTS), if applicable
International applicants from non-English-speaking countries must provide proof of English proficiency through standardized tests unless they qualify for a waiver based on prior education in English.
Valid Passport
A scanned copy of your current, valid passport is required to verify your identity and citizenship.
It is advisable to start gathering these documents early, as securing official transcripts, recommendation letters, and test scores can take time.
Tips for Crafting a Strong Application
Applying to a prestigious and competitive program like the Obama Foundation Scholars Program requires not only meeting the basic requirements but also presenting your story in a compelling and authentic way. Here are some actionable tips to strengthen your application:
1. Highlight Tangible Impact
Focus on the results of your leadership rather than just describing responsibilities. For example, rather than stating you “led a community health initiative,” explain that you “organized a health outreach program that provided medical services to over 2,000 underserved residents, resulting in a 30% increase in vaccination rates.”
2. Share Your “Why”
Your personal motivation and connection to your work are just as important as the work itself. Share the life experiences or pivotal moments that inspired you to take action. Personal narratives create a powerful emotional connection with reviewers.
3. Align With the Obama Foundation’s Mission
Reviewers look for candidates whose values align with those of the Obama Foundation. Highlight how your work embodies inclusiveness, civic responsibility, and a commitment to social justice. Show that you are not only making a difference but are also driven by a vision of equity and global cooperation.
4. Be Authentic and Vision-Driven
Avoid writing what you think the committee wants to hear. Be genuine and let your unique voice shine through. Clearly articulate your vision for the future and how the program will help you achieve specific goals that benefit your community or country.
5. Secure Strong Recommendations
Select referees who know you well and can offer detailed, firsthand accounts of your leadership impact, character, and growth potential. Brief them about the program and your goals so they can tailor their letters to highlight qualities that match the program’s focus.
6. Proofread and Edit Carefully
Attention to detail matters. Make sure all your documents are free of typos, grammatical errors, and inconsistencies. A polished application reflects professionalism and dedication.
By following these tips, you can present a compelling application that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of the selection committee.
Life as an Obama Scholar
During the academic year, scholars engage in a rich blend of coursework, leadership workshops, field experiences, and cultural exchange. The program is intentionally designed to be immersive, offering both structured learning and opportunities for self-directed growth. Scholars become part of a close-knit community that encourages collaboration, peer learning, and cross-cultural understanding.
Activities include:
Leadership seminars with global experts
These seminars feature prominent leaders, policymakers, and practitioners from around the world who share their experiences, insights, and strategies for effective leadership. Topics often include conflict resolution, inclusive governance, grassroots mobilization, and ethical leadership.
Community engagement events
Scholars regularly participate in volunteer projects and community outreach activities, engaging directly with local populations and organizations. These events deepen scholars’ understanding of community needs and foster hands-on service experience.
One-on-one mentorship
Each scholar is paired with a mentor who provides personalized guidance throughout the year. Mentors help scholars navigate personal challenges, refine their leadership strategies, and expand their professional networks.
Visits to policy institutions, NGOs, and media outlets
These site visits offer scholars a behind-the-scenes look at how public policy is shaped and how civil society organizations operate. Scholars gain valuable exposure to advocacy work, policymaking processes, and media engagement strategies.
In addition to these core activities, scholars are encouraged to take part in university events, cultural excursions, and informal gatherings that further enrich their experience. Outside the classroom, scholars often collaborate on joint projects, exchange ideas, and form lifelong bonds with peers from across continents. Many also take advantage of the vibrant cultural and professional landscapes of New York City or Chicago, making the most of their time in the U.S.
Alumni Impact and Success Stories
The Obama Foundation Scholars alumni network is a vibrant, growing community of leaders who continue to drive change long after their time in the program ends. Alumni are making significant strides in diverse fields, leveraging the skills, connections, and visibility gained through the program to scale their impact globally.
The Obama Foundation Scholars alumni have gone on to:
Lead climate justice movements in Africa
Alumni have spearheaded environmental campaigns, established renewable energy cooperatives, and advocated for sustainable policies that address the urgent challenges of climate change.
Launch education startups in Latin America
Several alumni have founded innovative educational platforms and programs that improve access to quality education, particularly in underserved and rural communities.
Hold public office in Southeast Asia
Graduates of the program have transitioned into roles within local and national governments, using their platforms to champion policies that advance social justice, transparency, and inclusive development.
Shape refugee policy in the Middle East
Alumni have worked closely with international organizations and governments to reform refugee policies, ensuring better protection and integration for displaced populations.
One notable alumna, Rosebell Kagumire from Uganda, now leads African feminist movements across digital and policy spaces. Her post-program influence has grown significantly thanks to the support and visibility offered by the Foundation. She continues to advocate for women’s rights, amplify marginalized voices, and challenge systemic inequalities through her leadership and activism.
Other alumni have similarly compelling stories—whether building health care systems in war-torn regions, driving economic empowerment projects, or crafting cultural preservation initiatives, their collective achievements demonstrate the profound and far-reaching impact of the Scholars Program.
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FAQs
Furthermore, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Obama Foundation Scholars Program
Is the program open every year?
Yes, it typically opens annually around September and runs through the following academic year. Application deadlines and program timelines are announced on the Foundation’s official website well in advance.
Can undergraduate students apply?
No. The program is designed for professionals with a minimum of 3–5 years of leadership experience. Applicants should already be actively engaged in work that has a measurable impact on their community or field.
Do I need to take the GRE or GMAT?
For the University of Chicago MA-IDP track, GRE scores may be required unless waived due to extensive professional experience or a relevant academic background. Columbia’s non-degree program does not require standardized test scores.
Is this a degree-granting program?
Only the University of Chicago track awards a Master’s degree (MA in International Development and Policy). Columbia’s program is non-degree but offers a robust, immersive leadership development experience.
Can I bring my family?
Most scholars travel alone due to housing and financial limitations. However, in certain cases, limited arrangements may be made depending on the host institution’s policies and available resources. It’s recommended to discuss specific needs with the admissions office during the application process.
What happens after the program ends?
Upon completion, scholars become part of the Obama Foundation’s global alumni network. This lifelong community provides ongoing access to mentorship, funding opportunities, collaboration platforms, and exclusive events that support scholars in sustaining and expanding their impact.
Final Thoughts
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program for international students represents a rare and powerful convergence of academic rigor, civic leadership, and global impact. If you’re a leader striving to elevate your work and contribute meaningfully to society, this program could be your next big step.
With full funding, elite academic environments, and access to a lifelong network, the Obama Scholars Program is a life-changing opportunity for those who are serious about social change.
Take the leap. The world needs your leadership—and the Obama Foundation is here to help you amplify it.
