Deadline: July 19, 2026
Applications are open for the Presidential Leadership Scholars Program 2027. The Presidential Leadership Scholars program annually gathers a diverse group of mid-career professionals to hone their leadership abilities through interactions with former presidents, key administration officials, leading academics, and business and civic leaders.
The PLS program challenges Scholars to develop their leadership ability in an environment where individuals’ experiences are seen as strengths and are respected, supported, and valued. Within this welcoming and open-minded culture, Scholars are expected to do the following both in and out of the program:
- Engage in deep reflection about their personal leadership development, including acknowledging habits that might exclude potential collaborators while being open to new ways of broadening participation by others.
- Commit to meaningful interactions with others whose life experiences and perspectives are different than their own, even if those interactions are uncomfortable.
- Include diverse perspectives in the framing of challenges and consideration of responses.
- Work to ensure the full participation of others in influencing change.
- Seek understanding with others, especially when they disagree.
Costs
- There are zero financial costs associated with applying to the PLS program.
- The four presidential centers are committed to offering this opportunity to leaders across the country, regardless of their financial means. To honor this commitment, program tuition, accommodations, meals, and travel to, from, and throughout the module are funded in full by contributions from foundations, individuals, and corporations.
Eligibility
- All applicants must fit one of the following criteria regarding citizenship and country of residence:
- A citizen of the United States living and working in the country;
- A citizen of the United States living and working outside of the country, but who can pay for all non-domestic costs associated with traveling to each module;
- A legal resident of the United States living and working in the country.
- The minimum age for participants is 21. While there is no maximum age, most Scholars have 10+ years of professional experience and are at a point in their careers where their participation and the lessons learned in PLS will be able to be put into practice for many years to come.
- Exceptionally qualified candidates with less than 10 years of experience will be considered for the Presidential Leadership Scholars program.
Application
Each applicant is required to complete the application form, upload the required documentation, and submit two references for consideration.
For more information, visit Presidential Leadership Scholars Program.
