The Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service is open to the 2026–2028 cohort and seeks to support students and young people pursuing careers in public service. The program is open to eligible sophomores in the United States, and selected scholars will receive up to $50,000 in financial support over two years. Additional perks include a summer travel experience and an Airbnb allowance. Applications are open for the 2026–2028 cohort, with the application deadline set for March 17, 2026, at 11:59 PM United States Central Time (UTC-6).
About The Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service
The Obama Foundation, a nonprofit organisation in partnership with the Airbnb CEO and Co-Founder Brian Chesky, is calling for students pursuing careers in public service to apply for the scholarship fund. The Airbnb CEO has donated $100 million to support this cause for eligible students completing their sophomore year in the spring of 2026.
The purpose of the scholarship is to support students who demonstrate a commitment to public service with up to $50,000 to help reduce their financial barriers to education and to provide leadership training and global learning opportunities. The scholarship will support 100 students with financial aid, summer travel stipends and Airbnb housing credits for two years (2026-2028).
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: $10,000 – $50,000
- Maximum award: $50,000
- Project duration supported: two years
Additional benefits of the foundation’s scholarship include summer travel stipends and fully funded Airbnb housing credits for two years from 2026 to 2028.
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Who Can Apply for the Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service
- Eligible organisation types:
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- Students are currently enrolled in an undergraduate program.
- Students finishing their sophomore year in the spring of 2026.
- Students with a demonstrated commitment to public service
- Registration requirements:
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- Applicants should be college sophomores ready to pursue a four-year course at an accredited institution.
- Must be a US citizen or permanent resident.
- Applicants should demonstrate financial need using the FAFSA formula.
- Must have a minimum grade point of 3.0 to 4.0 scale.
- Should demonstrate commitment ot public service.
- Geographic eligibility: United States
- Sector or thematic focus:
- Public service
- Civic engagement
- Social impact
- Leadership development
Application Process
- Complete the online application form on the official grant website.
- Submit by March 17, 2026, at 11:59 PM United States Central Time (UTC-6)
- The selection will be done by the foundation’s board.
- Finalists will be contacted in May, and final voyagers will be contacted in July 2026.
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Required Materials
- Completed application form
- Academic Transcripts
- Proof of Us citizenship
Key Dates
- Application deadline: March 17, 2026, at 11:59 PM United States Central Time (UTC-6)
- Notification timeline: May – July 2026
- Scholarship Notifications: July 2026
- Funds Disbursed: August – October 2026
Selection Notes
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- The scholarship is highly competitive, with a focus on junior students studying in the US.
- Priority focus areas:
- Selection focuses on commitment to public service and leadership potential.
- Academic performance and impact.
- Exclusions:
- Applicants with political affiliations or running for public office.
Official Source of the Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service
- Official Application Page: https://obama.org/programs/voyager-scholarship/
