Columbia World Projects 2022-2023 Obama Foundation Scholars Program

Since 2018, the Obama Foundation Scholars Program at Columbia University has welcomed:

• 46 rising leaders from 36 countries who have demonstrated a commitment to finding solutions to challenges in their communities, countries, and regions
• Scholars who were, on average, 33 years of age, with ages ranging from 25 to 45
• Emerging institutional and movement leaders addressing a range of challenges, including strengthening governance, increasing access to high-quality healthcare, environmental sustainability, and promoting women’s rights and ending gender-based violence

• Table of Content
• About Columbia World Projects
• Obama Foundation Scholars Program
• Aim and Benefits of Obama Foundation Scholars Program
• Requirements for Obama Foundation Scholars Program Qualification
• Documents Required for Application
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

About Columbia World Projects

Columbia World Projects mobilizes the university’s researchers and scholars to work with governments, organizations, businesses and communities to tackle global challenges. Columbia World Projects is a major, university-wide initiative that aims to forge a closer and more useful connection between Columbia University's vast research capabilities and the needs of the world.

Obama Foundation Scholars Program

Aim and Benefits of Obama Foundation Scholars Program

• Monthly stipend to assist with living expenses in New York City

• A furnished studio apartment within walking distance of Columbia University, if the program is able to convene in person

• 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, if the program is able to convene in person

• Air travel to and from home country and any program-related activities, if the program is able to convene in person

Requirements for Obama Foundation Scholars Program Qualification

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

Documents Required for Application

A complete application, submitted entirely online, includes the following materials:

Resume/curriculum vitae

Personal video statement

Responses to short essay questions

Proof of English proficiency

Minimum Scores

• TOEFL – Internet-Based Exam: 100

• TOEFL – Paper-Based Exam: 600

• International English Language Testing System Academic: 7

• Pearson Test of English Academic: 68

• Duolingo English Test: 120 (75 on the exam taken prior to July 2019)

Please note that while applicants who received scores below the posted minimums may still apply, applications are not guaranteed to be reviewed.

Two letters of recommendation

Application Deadline

How to Apply

For more details, visit Columbia World Projects website.