Open to: First-gen/low-income students (18-29) worldwide
Benefits: Harvard-designed course, global network, career tools
Description
The Aspire Leaders Program offers a transformative, fully-funded online leadership development experience for first-generation and limited-income university students globally. Originally founded at Harvard University, this independent non-profit initiative provides participants with Harvard-quality leadership training through a flexible, three-module curriculum. The program uniquely combines self-paced learning with live interactive sessions, covering essential topics from personal leadership development to digital transformation and community engagement. What makes this opportunity exceptional is its accessibility – with no costs, no competitive selection, and a simple 10-minute application process for all eligible candidates. Participants will join a diverse global cohort, gaining practical career skills co-created with Harvard Business School while connecting with world-class educators and peers from over 100 countries. The program is conducted entirely in English and designed to accommodate participants’ existing academic or professional commitments.
Eligibility
This program specifically targets young adults facing socioeconomic barriers to leadership opportunities. Applicants must be aged 18-29 and meet one of two criteria: being first-generation university students (neither parent completed a bachelor’s degree) or coming from limited-income backgrounds (self-identified). Eligible candidates include current undergraduate students and recent graduates (within three years of completing their bachelor’s degree), excluding those currently enrolled in or holding postgraduate degrees. The program maintains an inclusive approach to income verification, trusting applicants to self-assess their economic circumstances without rigid financial thresholds. While conducted in English, no formal language test scores are required, though intermediate English proficiency is recommended to fully benefit from the program content.
Benefits
Participants in the Aspire Leaders Program gain access to:
- Harvard-quality curriculum designed by former Harvard faculty
- Career development resources including resume and LinkedIn profile workshops
- Global networking opportunities with peers from 100+ countries
- Interactive masterclasses with world-renowned educators
- Alumni community with ongoing mentorship and funding opportunities
- Completion certificates for key program components
How to Apply
Applying is straightforward and takes just 10 minutes:
- Visit the application portal
- Create an account and complete the short form
- Confirm eligibility (age/education/background)
- Submit before the July 9, 2025 deadline
No essays, recommendations, or documentation required beyond the basic application.
Contact Information
For program inquiries:
- Website: Aspire Leaders Program
- FAQs: Program Questions Answered
- Application Support: Apply Here
𝗧𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗼𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗿𝗼𝘄
