Presidential Leadership Scholars Program 2027: Fully Funded Leadership Program for Experienced Leaders

Applications are now open for the prestigious Presidential Leadership Scholars Class of 2027, a fully funded leadership development program designed for bold, principled, and high-potential leaders from diverse sectors.. This highly competitive leadership development program brings together accomplished leaders from different sectors who are committed to driving positive change in their communities, organizations, and professions.

The Presidential Leadership Scholars (PLS) program explores leadership lessons and experiences from the administrations of former U.S. Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Lyndon B. Johnson while helping participants strengthen their leadership capacity through reflection, collaboration, and action-oriented learning.

Key Details

• Program: Presidential Leadership Scholars Class of 2027
• Location: United States
• Application Deadline: July 19, 2026 (11:59 PM CT)
• Program Duration: 6 Months
• Who Can Apply: Experienced leaders with typically 10+ years of professional experience
• Funding: Fully funded (housing, meals, and domestic travel during sessions covered)
• Program Format: Six in-person leadership modules + onboarding webinar
• Required: Personal Leadership Project (PLP)

About the Presidential Leadership Scholars Program

The Presidential Leadership Scholars Program is designed for bold, principled, and high-potential leaders who are ready to tackle critical societal challenges and expand their leadership impact.

The six-month intensive leadership program assembles a diverse cohort of professionals from across sectors who are interested in strengthening their leadership skills while learning alongside peers from different backgrounds and perspectives.

Scholars participate in immersive modules, collaborative leadership development activities, and practical leadership exercises focused on creating meaningful change.

Program Benefits

Successful participants will receive:

• Fully funded participation in the six-month leadership program
• Housing and meals during all program sessions
• Domestic travel during program modules
• Access to a diverse network of accomplished leaders
• Leadership coaching and development opportunities
• Exposure to leadership lessons from former U.S. presidential administrations
• Opportunities for collaboration and peer learning
• Personal and professional growth through experiential learning

Who Should Apply?

The Presidential Leadership Scholars Program is looking for leaders who demonstrate:

Civically Minded Leadership

Applicants should show a strong commitment to improving their communities, organizations, or professional sectors.

Openness to Feedback

Successful scholars are willing to receive, reflect on, and act upon feedback related to their leadership style and performance.

Acceptance of Diverse Perspectives

The program values leaders who actively engage with individuals from different backgrounds, viewpoints, and experiences.

Strong Professional Experience

Applicants typically have at least 10+ years of meaningful professional experience and an established leadership track record.

Demonstrated Leadership

PLS is designed for experienced leaders rather than individuals seeking introductory leadership training.

Ability to Influence Change

Applicants should already be in positions where they can drive meaningful impact and influence positive transformation.

Commitment to the Program

Participants must be able to fully engage in the rigorous six-month experience and attend all required sessions.

Personal Leadership Project (PLP)

All applicants are required to submit a Personal Leadership Project (PLP) as part of their application.

The project should:

• Focus on creating a positive outcome for a specific group of people
• Include an achievable six-month goal
• Build on the applicant’s existing expertise, experience, or network
• Benefit directly from participation in the program
• Address a significant leadership challenge

Projects may relate to current professional responsibilities or new initiatives outside an applicant’s day-to-day role.

Presidential Leadership Scholars 2027 Schedule

Participants are required to attend all sessions and activities.

Onboarding Webinar

📅 January 6, 2027
🕑 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (CT)
📍 Online via Zoom

Program Modules

• Module One: January 20 – January 23, 2027
• Module Two: February 24 – February 26, 2027
• Module Three: March 17 – March 19, 2027
• Module Four: April 21 – April 23, 2027
• Module Five: May 12 – May 14, 2027
• Module Six: June 23 – June 26, 2027

Application Process

The application process includes:

• Personal and professional background information
• Essay responses
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal Leadership Project summary

Please click “Next >>” to start your application.

Important Application Timeline

• Application Deadline: July 19, 2026
• Finalist Notifications: Mid-September 2026
• Interviews: Early October 2026
• Final Acceptance Decisions: December 2026

Leadership Approach

The Presidential Leadership Scholars Program emphasizes inclusive leadership and meaningful collaboration. Scholars are expected to:

• Reflect deeply on their leadership development
• Build inclusive leadership habits
• Engage respectfully across differences
• Include diverse voices in decision-making
• Foster collaboration and participation
• Seek understanding even during disagreement

Why You Should Apply

The Presidential Leadership Scholars Program offers a unique opportunity for experienced professionals to strengthen their leadership abilities while joining a powerful network of changemakers committed to improving lives and solving pressing global and local challenges.

If you are passionate about leadership, collaboration, civic engagement, and creating lasting impact, this program could be an excellent next step in your leadership journey.

🔗 Apply now and learn more through the official program website.

💡 Pro Tip: Your Personal Leadership Project is a major component of the application. Focus on presenting a realistic, impact-driven initiative that clearly demonstrates your leadership capacity, long-term vision, and ability to create measurable change.

Questions?