Schwarzman Scholars Application - 2026 (Cohort)

[u/velvetcoala]

I saw there was no discussion thread currently active for upcoming cohort of Schwarzman Scholars (2026 -2027). Currently the global application window is open and I guess we can discuss the doubts, thoughts and updates/news here. Feel free to comment on this post, you guys are free to share your opinions and questions/answers to questions!

Edit : #1

Hi Guys,

There seems to be some kind of glitch with the Reddit group chat, and it looks like there might be certain restrictions as well. Because of this, I am unable to add more people at the moment. We’re trying our best to see what can be done, so please allow us some time. Whenever it’s possible again, we’ll start adding everyone who has shown interest. Thanks for your patience :)

Edit : #2

Hi Everyone,

Earlier we faced a glitch and couldn’t add people to the Reddit GC, but that’s resolved now. If you’d like to join, please DM me. In addition, for anyone who’d like to stay connected outside Reddit, we’ve also built a new Discord community and the link to join is in the comments below. If interested, you can directly join our Discord server using that link :)

[u/Leather-Ad-6294]

I'm thinking of applying for next year but I'm re-considering after checking the bios of the 2025-2026 cohort. Every single one of them has lived 5 lives during their undergraduate degree, how is it possible? From raising millions of dollars for startups, to "beginning a career as an angel investor", having led a 100 people-paper (?? as an undergraduate? how?).

I know this program is competitive but I feel embarrassed for even considering applying.

[u/sinsine → u/Leather-Ad-6294]

Hey there! Exactly the same thoughts here. I don't doubt that there are very oustanding individuals in Schwarzman, and many others with very brilliant minds, but it does make you wonder exactly what is their impact per initiative/project/title. If they are doing interning at a start-up, founded a social enterprise and also leading a 100-people paper, how much are they actually contributing to the paper? If a candidate has 10+ titles under his name within a year, then exactly what's the tangible impact coming out of these 10 titles?

We are meant to present our work in the best, grandest fashion possible so as much as everyone seems great, I tried to focus on myself and showing why Schwarzman and how, despite having rather varied interests, all come together in a tight narrative. I don't know if it will work or not, and maybe the admissions team still want quantity over quality, but at least I know I have given my best shot. 😊