Job Description

Apply for Aspire Leaders Program 2026 (free 9-week online leadership program). Eligibility: 18–29 years, first-generation or limited-income students/graduates. Deadline Jan 21, 2026.

Aspire Leaders Program 2026: Fully Funded 9-Week Online Leadership Program

The Aspire Leaders Program is a free online leadership development journey for limited-income and first-generation university students and recent graduates worldwide. Check eligibility, last date, benefits and how to apply.

Free Program · Online · Cohort 1 Deadline: 21 Jan 2026

Program Overview

The Aspire Leaders Program is a free, interactive, online leadership development program designed for limited-income and first-generation university students and recent graduates.

The program content is delivered in English and is designed to be manageable alongside studies or work commitments.

Aspire Institute started as a program under the Mittal South Asia Institute at Harvard University (2017) and became an independent non-profit in 2022.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Age: 18 to 29 years.
  • Background: Limited-income or first-generation to attend university.
  • Education: Currently enrolled in a university program or graduated from a university program.
If you meet eligibility criteria and submit the short online application, the program indicates you will be accepted.

Key Benefits

Personal & Professional growth

  • Strengths-based leadership skills assessment.
  • Career resources (resume, LinkedIn, interviewing and networking support) co-created with Harvard Business School.
  • Live interactive learning with a global cohort of peers.

Learning and recognition

  • Leadership development course designed and delivered by Harvard University faculty (Aspire Horizons course).
  • Synchronous sessions with educators from universities around the world.
  • Certificate of completion after successful program completion.

Program Structure (What You’ll Do)

Component What it includes
Leadership foundation Strengths-based leadership assessment and skills building
Aspire Horizons course Leadership development modules delivered by Harvard University faculty
Immersive learning Live sessions and peer discussions with a global cohort and mentors
Alumni community Ongoing access to a community of young leaders, mentors and opportunities

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

  1. Open the Aspire Leaders Program application page on the official Aspire Institute website.
  2. Complete the online application (takes around 10 minutes).
  3. Submit before the deadline for the current cohort.
  4. Check your email for further instructions and onboarding details.
Cohort 1 of the 2026 Aspire Leaders Program is open until January 21, 2026.

FAQs

1) Is the Aspire Leaders Program paid?

No, the program is described as free and fully funded.

2) Is it offline or online?

It is an online program with live interactive sessions and cohort discussions.

3) What if I am a graduate?

Recent graduates are also eligible if they fit the age and background criteria.

4) Where can I apply?

Apply through the official Aspire Institute website application link.

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