Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship 2026 opens doors for aspiring public servants with up to $50,000 in US college aid, summer stipends, and global travel perks. Launched by the Obama Foundation and Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky, this program targets US college students passionate about community impact, easing debt while building leadership networks.
Program Snapshot
Sponsor: Obama Foundation & Airbnb (administered via International Scholarship & Tuition Services – ISTS at applyists.net).
For: Rising juniors (sophomore year ending Spring 2026) at US colleges/universities, including transfers from 2-year schools.
Citizenship: US citizens, permanent residents, or DACA recipients.
Deadline: March 17, 2026, 11:59 PM CT (UTC-6).
Awards: 100 scholars annually.
Public service here means broad impact—healthcare, education, environment, or policy—not tied to specific majors. Applications opened January 28, 2026.
Eligibility Essentials
To qualify, meet these at application and Fall 2026 enrollment:
- Full-time enrollment as a junior in Fall 2026 at a US accredited college/university (or transferring).
- Rising sophomore (completing sophomore year Spring 2026).
- Demonstrated public service commitment (e.g., volunteering, community projects).
- Financial need for aid.
- Eligible status: US citizen/PR/DACA.
No GPA minimum specified, but strong academics help; diversity in perspectives encouraged. International students (e.g., Nigerians studying in US) may qualify if meeting citizenship rules.
Life-Changing Benefits
Voyagers get barrier-breaking support:
- Up to $50,000 tuition aid ($25,000/year for junior/senior years).
- $10,000 summer stipend + free Airbnb housing (up to $4,200) for work-travel between junior/senior year.
- $2,000 annual travel credits for 10 years post-grad.
- Annual Obama Foundation summits with President Obama and leaders.
- Mentorship network, monthly virtual sessions (speakers, roundtables).
This package totals potential $100K+ value, fostering global leaders who bridge divides.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Nail your app via https://voyagerscholarship.applyists.net:
- Register/Start:Create account on portal (opened Jan 28, 2026).
- Gather Docs:Transcripts, resume, public service examples, financial aid info (FAFSA if applicable).
- Essays/Responses:Answer prompts on service passion, impact vision, travel interests (broadly defined).
- Recommendations:Secure 1-2 from mentors/teachers highlighting service.
- Submit by Deadline:March 17, 2026, 11:59 PM CT—early is best.
Timeline: Finalists notified May 2026; scholars July 2026; funds August-October. No fee; non-partisan. Prep tips: Showcase authentic stories, link service to future goals.
Pro Application Tips for Standouts
- Tailor Essays: Use STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for service examples.
- Highlight Need: Tie finances to pursuing service without debt.
- Leverage Networks: Check campus offices for endorsements.
- Practice Interviews: Finalists may face them.
For Nigerian-Americans or US-based Africans, emphasize cross-cultural service.
Why Pursue Voyager Now?
In a divided world, Voyagers gain tools for empathy-driven change. Past scholars traveled from Togo to Geneva for health work. If you’re a US student eyeing public good, apply—spots are competitive but transformative.
APPLY NOW
