The Obama Foundation Scholars Program at Columbia University, a part of Columbia World Projects, launched the application for its eighth cohort today, inviting rising leaders from around the world to apply to participate in a nine-month immersive program (from August 2025 until May 2026) of academic, skill-based and experiential learning.
The application will remain open until Dec. 16 at 5 PM EST.
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. The program is part of Columbia Global’s mission to help put trailblazing research to action by developing the leaders that our tomorrow needs.
Learn about other programs and scholarships available through the Obama Foundation.