Is the Obama Foundation Scholars Program open now?
The 2026–2027 University of Chicago application is closed and the cohort has been announced.
How much financial support does the UChicago track provide?
US$10,000 toward tuition and living expenses.
Is it a full master’s scholarship?
Not automatically. The UChicago track is a leadership programme for students already in eligible master’s programmes.
What does this scholarship actually cover?
A one-year leadership programme layered onto eligible graduate study. The UChicago track provides US$10,000 in support plus intensive Obama Foundation leadership programming.
Other verified benefits
The UChicago track includes a one-year leadership curriculum, convenings, workshops, action planning and networking. Each participating Scholar receives US$10,000 in financial support toward tuition and living expenses.
Costs not confirmed or not covered
The UChicago Scholar stipend is not a full scholarship for all university tuition and living costs. Students are already enrolled in eligible UChicago master's programmes.
Who is eligible to apply?
For UChicago, applicants are entering the final year of an eligible master's at Harris, Crown or Booth, have at least three years of demonstrated leadership, academic success and a commitment to tackle a defined social challenge.
The generic programme has different university tracks. Applicants must use the current partner-specific eligibility and timeline.
Eligible countries
Emerging leaders from the United States and around the world, subject to the university-partner track.
Language requirements
Strong English is required; Columbia explicitly requires fluency and partner-school rules apply.
Which documents should you prepare?
- Statement of purpose
Which documents may be required conditionally?
- CV or résumé
- Academic transcripts
What should you do next?
- First qualify for or enroll in the relevant partner-university graduate programme.
- Wait for the next Obama Foundation Scholars application window.
- Prepare evidence of leadership, social impact and future community commitment.
- Apply through the relevant university/Obama Foundation track.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Obama Foundation Scholars Program fully funded?
Not as one universal scholarship. The current University of Chicago track provides US$10,000 in financial support toward tuition and living expenses alongside leadership programming.