Apply Now: Fully Funded Presidential Leadership Scholars Program 2026

Empowering Mid-Career Leaders to Create Lasting Change

The Presidential Leadership Scholars (PLS) Program is a prestigious, fully funded, six-month leadership development experience that brings together bold and principled leaders who are committed to solving critical challenges at home and abroad. The program draws on lessons learned from the administrations of Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Lyndon B. Johnson.

About the Program

Each year, a diverse cohort of mid-career professionals is selected to participate in this transformative journey. Participants sharpen their leadership skills through direct interaction with former presidents, key administration officials, leading academics, and influential civic and business leaders.

At the heart of the program is the personal leadership project, designed by each Scholar to address a pressing issue in their community, country, or globally. PLS fosters the development of skills to bridge divides and build networks that transcend political, professional, geographic, and economic boundaries. Scholars emerge as changemakers who challenge preconceptions and lead lasting, positive change.

Partner organizations include:

• The George W. Bush Presidential Center
• The Clinton Foundation
• The George & Barbara Bush Foundation
• The Lyndon Baines Johnson Foundation

Program Features

Curriculum & Logistics

PLS is led by a faculty of distinguished professors and practitioners representing varied perspectives on leadership. The curriculum is designed around four core leadership competencies:

• Vision and Communication
• Decision Making
• Persuasion and Influence
• Strategic Partnerships

The program is delivered over six months (January–June 2026), combining approximately 20 days of in-person instruction with pre- and post-module assignments and evaluations. Scholars participate in meaningful discussions, develop lifelong relationships, and gain insights from peers with diverse backgrounds.

2026 Program Schedule

• Module One: January 21–24, 2026
• Module Two: February 26–28, 2026
• Module Three: March 26–28, 2026
• Module Four: April 23–25, 2026
• Module Five: May 14–16, 2026
• Module Six and Capstone: June 10–13, 2026

Participants meet monthly for extended weekends at each of the four presidential centers. The program concludes with a capstone session in June.

Costs

Thanks to the generosity of program supporters, PLS is fully funded. Scholars incur no costs for:

• Tuition
• Housing
• Meals
• Domestic travel during the sessions in the host city

Scholars are responsible only for:

• Travel to and from their home airport
• Airport parking, if applicable
• Meals outside the official session schedule
• Incidentals at hotels (credit card required at check-in)

There is no application fee.

The Ideal Presidential Leadership Scholar

PLS seeks high-potential individuals who are:

• Civically minded: Committed to improving society
• Open to feedback: Willing to reflect and grow
• Inclusive: Welcoming of diverse perspectives
• Professionally experienced: Typically with 10+ years of experience
• Proven leaders: With a track record of leadership and impact
• In influential positions: Able to implement the change they envision
• Committed: Able to fully engage in all program components

Leadership Development Approach

The program fosters leadership growth in a space where Scholars’ experiences are seen as strengths. PLS encourages:

• Deep self-reflection
• Embracing uncomfortable yet meaningful dialogue
• Inclusive framing of challenges
• Supporting full participation in change-making
• Seeking understanding across differences

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How is PLS different from other executive leadership programs?

PLS is the only program of its kind that integrates presidential history, real-world leadership case studies, and direct access to former presidents and their advisors. It creates a lifelong network of leaders dedicated to public service and societal impact.

Where are sessions held?

Sessions rotate among the four presidential centers:

• George H.W. Bush Presidential Library Foundation, College Station, TX
• William J. Clinton Presidential Center, Little Rock, AR
• George W. Bush Presidential Center, Dallas, TX
• Lyndon Baines Johnson Foundation, Austin, TX

Are former Presidents involved?

Yes, Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton participate when schedules permit. All four centers are actively involved.

Is this an accredited program?

No, PLS is a professional development program and is not overseen by an accrediting body. It does not offer college credit.

What is expected from alumni?

Alumni are encouraged to:

• Mentor new Scholars
• Share insights with future classes
• Participate in follow-up engagements
• Stay connected with the network

Scheduling & Work Commitments

Can I miss a module?

No. Full participation in all sessions is required.

Will I miss work?

Yes, some days will require time off. Scholars typically attend one extended weekend session per month, plus travel time. The schedule is designed for working professionals but requires employer support.

Qualifications

Is there an age limit?

Participants must be at least 21 years old. There is no upper age limit.

Can I apply with less than 10 years of experience?

Yes, exceptionally qualified candidates with less than 10 years will be considered.

Is a college degree required?

No.

What are the citizenship requirements?

Applicants must be:

• U.S. citizens living and working in the U.S.; or
• U.S. citizens living abroad and willing to cover their own non-domestic travel; or
• Legal U.S. residents living and working in the U.S.

Application Process

Why should I apply?

PLS is a career-transforming opportunity to grow as a leader, expand your impact, and join a powerful network of changemakers and former presidential officials.

What’s required?

• Completed application form
• Two references
• Leadership experience documentation

How many references?

Two. They should know your leadership capacity well. Public figures or high-profile individuals who cannot speak to your work will not strengthen your application.

Can I upload letters of recommendation?

No. Recommenders complete a secure electronic form sent to them via the application platform.

I’ve applied before. Should I reapply?

Yes. Strong applicants are encouraged to reapply. Applications must be submitted anew each year.

When will I know if I’m accepted?

• Finalist notifications: Mid-September 2025
• Interviews (via video): October 2025
• Final selection: By December 2025

Can I nominate someone?

No formal nominations are accepted. However, you are encouraged to share the program with qualified individuals.

Ready to Lead?

Applications for the Class of 2026 are now open.

Deadline: July 20, 2025, at 11:59 PM CT

Don’t miss this chance to join a fully funded, transformative leadership journey that brings together leaders committed to lasting, positive change.

👉  Apply Now for the Class of 2026

Deadline: July 20, 2025

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For more information, visit the PLE website here https://www.presidentialleadershipscholars.org/apply/ or  FAQ page or Contact Us to receive future updates.