Application Details

Apply to the Aspire Leaders Program

Talent exists among youth around the world. Discover your potential or encourage others to learn more and apply. Proceed to the application form here.

About the Aspire Leaders Program

Who is it for? 

This program is for students who are from backgrounds of social and financial adversity. All applicants must meet the following criteria:

• First-generation to attend university, meaning their parents did not complete an undergraduate degree
• Low-income background
• Ages 18-26
• Current undergraduate students or recent graduates
• OR students impacted by armed conflict and/or a natural disaster

For more details about eligibility, please see the FAQ.

What are the program opportunities?

Through the program, students will:

• Gain access to fully-funded HarvardX courses and leadership development tools.
• Participate in live seminars with Harvard and world-class faculty.
• Exchange ideas in a virtual classroom with a global community of peers.
• Apply for grant and mentorship opportunities.

Does this program require travel?

All stages of the Aspire Leaders Program are delivered online. We suggest access to internet and a mobile device, laptop, tablet, or computer.

Is English knowledge required?

All stages are delivered in English; however, if English is your second language or you are not 100% fluent, we still encourage you to apply and do your best.

Am I eligible if I have applied before?

Yes, if you applied for the 2022 program then you are eligible to apply again – unless you are an alumni and completed all five stages. Congratulations on your perseverence!

Timeline

Students who apply by the Early Action Deadline will be the first cohort to progress through each stage in 2023. If you apply by January 11, you will be welcomed to Stage 1 on a rolling basis and continue from there. The Aspire Leaders Program is competitive, and we strongly encourage you to submit your application early.

Once accepted to the Aspire Leaders Program, students will continue through a multi-stage selection process, culminating in the finalist program, delivered virtually. This occurs 4-5 months after the application deadline.

What are the outcomes?

Aspire Institute’s leadership development offerings will tangibly support the next steps of your journey as a young leader. The Aspire alumni network is a dynamic and diverse group spanning countries around the world. Membership in this group provides access to regional cohorts, affinity networks, and a lifelong community of peers and educators around the world.