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The Institute selects scholars from all over the United States. They have a wide variety of interests and represent small liberal arts colleges, large universities, Ivy League institutions, and historically Black colleges and universities.

>> Click here to apply online! <<

Eligibility

Interested candidates must meet the following guidelines:

• College Sophomores
  Applicants must have sophomore standing at an accredited college or university and have completed at least one academic year on a college campus. First-year students with sophomore status are not eligible to apply. Second year community college students are welcome to apply, but must show proof of acceptance to a four-year institution before beginning their first summer in the Institute.

• Strong Academic Performance
  Although the Institute does not have a GPA requirement, transcripts are carefully reviewed. Applicants' transcripts should reflect a rigorous and challenging courseload. All majors are welcome.

• Campus Involvement
  Applicants should be active members of their campus communities, including student organizations, arts or athletic programs, and community service activities.

• Two-Summer Commitment
  Applicants must be willing commit to two consecutive summers in the Institute.

For questions or more information regarding eligibility, please email wkeyes@theinstitute.net or call 202.660.2501.

Application Process

The Institute is currently accepting applications for the 2017-2018 Washington program.

To apply to the Institute, applicants must submit all materials listed below. Application packages must be received by The Institute by February 15, 2017.

• Completed Application Form
  Applicants must complete a brief application form that includes student information and three short essay responses (50-250 words). >> Click here to apply online! <<

• Institute Essay
  Applicants must discuss America's greatest accomplishment and greatest failure since its founding. Essays should be no more than three pages, double-spaced. We do not expect these essays to be research papers - only expressions of your opinions.

• Profile Photo
  Applicants must provide a clear, recent headshot as a profile picture.

• Resume
  Applicants must submit a resume detailing the extent of their campus involvement, volunteerism, and work experience. This allows us to better assess your leadership abilities.

• Writing Samples
  Applicants must submit two papers written in college-level courses. Writing samples should demonstrate the applicant’s ability to think critically. If possible, applicants should submit papers that bear a professor's grade and remarks, but this is not required.

• Two Letters of Recommendation
  Applicants must secure two letters of recommendation from college administrators, professors, internship supervisors, or other individuals who can comment on their academic ability, leadership skills, and personal character. Recommenders can submit their letters via email to wkeyes@theinstitute.net
  Or mail it to:

  The Institute for Responsible Citizenship
  1227 25th Street, NW, Sixth FL
  Washington, DC 20009
  wkeyes@theinstitute.net

• Official Transcript
  Applicants must submit an official transcript sent directly from their campus registrars. Transcripts should be sent to the following address:

  The Institute for Responsible Citizenship
  1227 25th Street, NW, Sixth FL
  Washington, DC 20009
  wkeyes@theinstitute.net

  All application materials must be sent to:

  The Institute for Responsible Citizenship
  1227 25th Street, NW, Sixth FL
  Washington, DC 20009
  wkeyes@theinstitute.net

All application materials are due on or before February 15, 2017.

Review Process

Applications are reviewed by Institute staff and alumni. During the review process, you may be contacted for a telephone interview. All applicants who are accepted into the Institute will be notified by March 1, 2017.

Contact »

Click here to apply online!