As our community grows, our program is evolving to meet the needs of underserved young leaders around the globe. This year, we are thrilled to introduce exciting updates to the Aspire Leaders Program that will expand our network, offerings, and opportunities for our learners. Keep reading to see what’s new!
Expanded Eligibility: Applications Now Open to Postgraduate Students and Graduates
Previously, the Aspire Leaders Program welcomed first-generation and limited-income learners who were 18-29 years old and currently enrolled in/graduated from an undergraduate program. Starting in Cohort 1 of our 2026 program, we will also be accepting learners who have graduated from or are currently enrolled in a postgraduate university program!
Working on your master’s degree or PhD? Not a problem! As long as you meet our other eligibility criteria, you will be welcomed into our program alongside your undergraduate peers.
A New Platform
The Aspire Leaders Program now has its own platform designed specifically for our Aspire learners!
The program curriculum will be hosted on Engage — a virtual education platform. Learners who register at engage.aspireleaders.org/registration can then log back into the platform at engage.aspireleaders.org to update their profile information if needed at any point before the application deadline. Once accepted, learners will then be able to access program content on the Engage platform.
View our guide for more information on how to register as a new user.
Increased Credential Options
Alongside a free certificate of completion, those who complete the 2026 Aspire Leaders Program will have the option to purchase a $5 credential bundle containing a personalized letter of acknowledgement and a unique, verifiable e-certificate signed by Aspire’s co-founders.
More Alumni Opportunities
Alumni will have access to even more opportunities for career development, entrepreneurship, and academic advancement through our strategic partnerships. Additionally, they will be eligible to apply for a new course — the AI-Integrated Leadership Program (AILP) — that will run for several cohorts in 2026. More details to come!
