[Obama Foundation Scholars](https://www.obama.org)

April 2026

$10,000 stipend per Scholar for one academic year; covers tuition and living expenses.

A one-year, fully funded leadership and community engagement program for University of Chicago master's students addressing social challenges.

For final-year master’s students at Harris, Crown Family, or Booth; full-year in-person participation required.

--- ## Description The program is a one-year immersive leadership experience for University of Chicago master's students at the Harris School of Public Policy, Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, and Booth School of Business. It aims to equip emerging leaders with interdisciplinary training, community-engaged experience, and mentorship to develop scalable solutions for complex social challenges. Scholars participate in Community Impact Seminars, Civic Treks, exclusive meetings with civic leaders, and receive mentorship from accomplished alumni. The program is designed to foster collaboration, connect academic research with practical impact, and prepare graduates for impactful careers addressing social issues globally. --- ## Due Dates - April 2026 (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Each Scholar receives a $10,000 stipend to help defray tuition and living expenses for their final year. - The program is fully funded—there is no cost to apply or participate. --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be entering their final year of a master’s program at one of the following University of Chicago schools: - Harris School of Public Policy - Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice - Booth School of Business (Full-Time, Evening, and Weekend MBA students who meet specific credit requirements) - Must have at least three years of demonstrated leadership experience with tangible impact on a social challenge. - Must not be engaged in an electoral campaign for public office during the program term. - Must be able to participate fully in-person in Chicago for the entire academic year. - Open to both full-time and eligible part-time students, as long as in-person requirements are met. - Demonstrated academic success and commitment to program values (equity, inclusivity, integrity, community, etc.). - Applicants from diverse backgrounds and international students are encouraged. --- ## Application Process - Complete an online application including: - Resume/CV - Short essay responses - Names of two references (letters required only for finalists) - Selection process includes a review by a committee and interviews for finalists (typically in May). - Decisions are released in June, with the cohort announced in the fall. - No application fee. --- ## Additional Information - Scholars receive a certificate from the Obama Foundation (not an additional academic degree). - Programming is interdisciplinary and includes seminars, civic engagement activities, and mentorship. - Program is non-partisan and not affiliated with any political party. - Accessibility accommodations are available for applicants and participants with disabilities. --- ## External Links - [Program Overview & Application Information](https://www.obama.org/programs/scholars/university-of-chicago/) - [Harris School Program Details](https://harris.uchicago.edu/academics/design-your-path/obama-scholars) - [FAQ](https://www.obama.org/programs/scholars/faq/) - [How to Apply](https://harris.uchicago.edu/academics/design-your-path/obama-scholars/how-to-apply) --- ## Contact Information | Name/Title | Email | Additional Info | |---------------------|-----------------------------|------------------------------| | Adrian Talbott, Program Director & Associate Dean for Civic Engagement | atalbott@uchicago.edu | Harris School of Public Policy | ---

University of Chicago Scholars

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