FAQS

Aspire Institute is an independent non-profit organization that facilitates the Aspire Leaders Program. The program, previously called the Crossroads Emerging Leaders Program, was founded at Harvard University in 2017 by Harvard Business School professors. In 2021, it spun out of Harvard University to become Aspire Institute.

This program is for limited-income or first-generation university students and graduates around the world. All applicants must meet the following criteria:

• 18-29 years old
  
• Currently enrolled in or graduated from a university program — this can be an undergraduate OR postgraduate program
  
• Meet at least ONE of the following:
  • Come from a limited-income background
  • Be first-generation to attend university in their family

Visit engage.aspireleaders.org/registration to register for our Engage portal if you do not have an existing account. After you fill out your profile and verify your account, navigate to engage.aspireleaders.org to log in. Please review this guide for detailed step-by-step instructions.

Make sure to go through each required question and click the submit button. Review all information before clicking submit to make sure it is correct. You will receive confirmation that your application was submitted successfully. If you do not receive this email, please make sure you have clicked submit and your email is verified.

The Aspire Leaders Program is 100% free. There are no costs associated with applying or going through the program. Beginning in 2026, learners will have the option to purchase a $5 credential bundle that includes:

• A unique, verifiable, digital e-credential through our Engage platform
• A personalized letter of recognition detailing the accomplishments made through the program

Yes, the program is all online so you can join from anywhere in the world. You will need wifi or data to access the different elements of each program module.

First-generation means that neither of your parents/primary caregivers completed a bachelor’s level degree. 

If your sibling, cousin, etc. has completed a bachelor’s program or is currently enrolled, you are still eligible.

We define “limited income” broadly and trust individuals to self-identify based on their personal circumstances and background. Our application process includes questions that help applicants reflect on their access to resources and opportunities, but ultimately we respect that economic disadvantage takes many forms across different regions and contexts.

Rather than using rigid financial thresholds that may not translate well across global economies, we recognize that limited income often means having fewer resources and opportunities than others in one’s community.

You are not required to submit official test scores or English language certification to participate in the program. The entire program is conducted in English, so we do suggest having an intermediate level in speaking, listening, and writing.

No, only applicants that meet the admissions eligibility criteria and have been accepted into an undergraduate or postgraduate program are eligible to apply. You must be enrolled in university courses before the program begins or have graduated from university.

Yes! Beginning in Cohort 1, those who are currently in graduate school or who have graduated from a postgraduate program will be for the program under the condition that they meet the other eligibility criteria.

Yes, if you meet the other eligibility criteria and graduated from an undergraduate program within the last three years then you are eligible.

The Aspire Leaders Program does not provide course credit. However, a free certificate of completion will be available to those who pass Module 2. Beginning in 2026, a $5 credential bundle containing a unique, verifiable digital certificate and a personalized letter of recognition will be available for purchase.