- Is the Aspire Leaders Program a Harvard University program?
Aspire Institute is an independent non-profit organization that facilitates the Aspire Leaders Program. The program, previously called the Crossroads Emerging Leaders Program, was founded at Harvard University in 2017 by Harvard Business School professors. In 2021, it spun out of Harvard University to become Aspire Institute.
- What are the admissions eligibility criteria for this program?
This program is for limited-income or first-generation college students and recent graduates around the world. All applicants must meet the following criteria:
- 18-29 years old
- Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program or recently graduated but NOT enrolled in a postgraduate program or graduated from a postgraduate program
- Meet at least ONE of the following:
- Come from a limited-income background
- Be first-generation to attend university in their family
- 18-29 years old
- How do I apply for the Aspire Leaders Program?
Please visit https://apply.aspireleaders.org/ to create an account and start your application or visit this direct link for the 2025 Aspire Leaders Program application. Make sure to go through each required question and click the submit button. Review all information before clicking submit to make sure it is correct. You will receive confirmation that your application was submitted successfully. If you do not receive this email, please make sure you have clicked submit and your email is verified.
- How much does this program cost?
This program is 100% free. There are no costs associated with applying or going through the program.
- Is this program online? Do I need internet access?
Yes, the program is all online so you can join from anywhere in the world. You will need wifi or data to access the different elements of each program module.
- How do you define first-generation?
First-generation means that neither of your parents/primary caregivers completed a bachelor’s level degree.
If your sibling, cousin, etc. has completed a bachelor’s program or is currently enrolled, you are still eligible.
- How do you define limited-income?
We define “limited income” broadly and trust individuals to self-identify based on their personal circumstances and background. Our application process includes questions that help applicants reflect on their access to resources and opportunities, but ultimately we respect that economic disadvantage takes many forms across different regions and contexts.
Rather than using rigid financial thresholds that may not translate well across global economies, we recognize that limited income often means having fewer resources and opportunities than others in one’s community.
- Do I need a TOEFL, IELTS, or other English exam score?
You are not required to submit official test scores or English language certification to participate in the program. The entire program is conducted in English, so we do suggest having an intermediate level in speaking, listening, and writing.
- Can I apply if I am not enrolled in an undergraduate program yet?
No, only applicants that meet the admissions eligibility criteria and have been accepted into an undergraduate program are eligible to apply. You must be enrolled in undergraduate courses before the program begins or have recently graduated from an undergraduate program.
- Can I apply if I am in graduate school?
No, if you have enrolled in graduate school then you are no longer eligible for the program.
- Can I apply if I am working full time?
Yes, if you meet the other eligibility criteria and graduated from an undergraduate program within the last three years then you are eligible.
- Does this program provide any certificates or course credit?
The Aspire Leaders Program does not provide course credit. However, there are some certificates provided for completion of key elements of the program.
