- Is the Aspire Leaders Program a Harvard University program?
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.
- What are the admissions eligibility criteria for this program?
This program is for low-income, first-generation college students around the world. All applicants must meet the following criteria:
- 18-29 years old
- First-generation college student
- Low-income background
- Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program or recently graduated (within the last three years) but NOT enrolled in graduate school
- Intermediate level English
- How do I apply for the Aspire Leaders Program?
Please visit https://apply.aspireleaders.org/ to create an account and start your application or visit this direct link for the 2024 Aspire Leaders Program application. 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.
- How much does this program cost?
This program is 100% free. There are no costs associated with applying or going through the program.
- Is this program online? Do I need internet access?
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.
- If I have gone through some parts of the program previously without completing, do I have to start from the beginning?
The 2024 Aspire Leaders Program is a new and improved version of previous programs. If you have gone through the program in 2023 or prior and apply again, you will begin in module one with your new cohort.
If you have gone through elements of the 2024 Aspire Leaders Program but miss a deadline, you must apply again and will begin in module one with your new cohort (i.e., if you began in Cohort 1 but did not complete all three modules, you can apply for Cohort 2 or 3 and begin again from module 1).
- How do you define first-generation?
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.
- How do you define low-income?
This varies from country to country. We recommend that you look at your own country’s definition, and we will trust you on your application.
- Do I need a TOEFL, IELTS, or other English exam score?
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.
- Can I apply if I am not enrolled in an undergraduate program yet?
No, only applicants that meet the admissions eligibility criteria and have been accepted into an undergraduate program are eligible to apply. You must be enrolled in undergraduate courses before the program begins.
- Can I apply if I graduated from an undergraduate program?
Yes, you may apply if you meet the other eligibility criteria and graduated within the last three years.
- Can I apply if I am in graduate school?
No, if you have enrolled in graduate school then you are no longer eligible for the program.
- Can I apply if I am working full time?
Yes, if you meet the other eligibility criteria and graduated from an undergraduate program within the last three years then you are eligible.
- Does this program provide any certificates or course credit?
The Aspire Leaders Program does not provide course credit. However, there are some certificates provided for completion of key elements of the program.
- I am an alumni of the Aspire Leaders Program or CELP, can I apply for the 2024 Aspire Leaders Program? If I apply and complete the program, will I be eligible for Extended Leadership Opportunities (ELOs)?
- Yes! Any previous alum can apply for the updated 2024 program as long as you still meet the eligibility requirements.
- No, previous alumni will not be eligible for ELOs.
- When will I find out if I am accepted?
If you applied for Cohort 1, you will hear from our admissions committee by December 15th, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. EST.
- What if I submitted my application or already have an account but want to change my email or name?
If you used an email that is active and verified this email account, you may login and go to your profile settings to make the changes. However, if you used an email that you cannot access or verify then you must resubmit an application with an accurate email address.
- What if I submitted my application with inaccurate information?
Please make sure to read over your application before submitting it as you will not be able to edit this once it is submitted. In order to provide the correct information, you will need to submit another application.
- How do I choose which cohort I wish to join for the 2024 Aspire Leaders Program on the application?
If you would like to apply for Cohort 2 or 3, you may select one option or a primary and secondary choice on the application.
Cohort 2 Application Deadline: March 21st
Cohort 3 Application Deadline: July 3rd
- What if I applied for Cohort 1 of the 2024 Aspire Leaders Program, but I wish to join another cohort?
Please fill out a new application and choose which cohort you wish to join or a primary and secondary choice as outlined in the question above.
- What if I applied for Cohort 1 of the 2024 Aspire Leaders Program, but I wish to join another cohort?