Scholarships

The Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship ($50,000)

Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship: A Leadership Opportunity for Aspiring Changemakers

Barack and Michelle Obama have teamed up with Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky to launch the Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship, a transformative program designed to support and empower the next generation of leaders across the United States.

This two-year scholarship blends financial support, leadership training, mentorship, and global exposure to help students create lasting impact in their communities and beyond.

About the Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship

The Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship is a leadership development and scholarship initiative for second-year undergraduate students and community college transfer students entering their junior year.

The program focuses on cultivating values such as empathy, cooperation, and global understanding through real-world experiences and mentorship.

Participants receive:

  • Up to $50,000 for junior and senior years
  • $10,000 stipend for a summer work experience
  • Free Airbnb housing during the summer voyage
  • Optional in-person convenings with leaders in public service
  • Membership in the Obama Foundation’s global community
  • $2,000 Airbnb travel credit annually for 10 years after graduation

Eligibility Requirements for the Obama-Chesky Voyage

Applicants must:

  • Be second-year undergraduate students or community college transfers entering their junior year
  • Demonstrate a passion for public service, leadership, and community impact
  • Show curiosity about the world and commitment to positive change

Application Guidelines

To submit a strong application:

  • Prepare a compelling personal statement outlining your leadership goals and community impact
    Use this guide for inspiration:
    Statement of Purpose Examples
  • Highlight your service experience, leadership potential, and long-term vision
  • Submit all required materials through the official application portal

For students exploring leadership, writing, or impact-driven career paths, this resource may also help:  Creative Writing and Leadership-Focused Jobs

Deadline

Applications close on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Central Time.

Apply here:
Official Voyager Scholarship Application Portal