The Washington Program 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. Our alumni have been accepted to all of the nation’s top law schools and many of the nation’s leading graduate programs. Today, they are teachers, ordained ministers, accountants, entrepreneurs, and rising stars at Fortune 500 companies. All of them are engaged in public and community service.
Interested candidates must meet the following guidelines:
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.
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.
Applicants should be active members of their campus communities, including student organizations, arts or athletic programs, and community service activities.
Applicants must be willing commit to two consecutive summers in the Institute.
For questions or more information regarding eligibility, please email amulinge@theinstitute.net or call 484.478.4610.
To apply to the Institute, applicants must submit all materials listed below. Applications open on September 1 and must be received by January 15.
Applications are reviewed by Institute staff and alumni. During the review process, you may be contacted for a telephone or video interview. All applicants who are accepted into the Institute will be notified by February 1.
Click to complete a brief application form that includes student information and three short essay responses (50-250 words).
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.
Provide a clear, recent headshot as a profile picture. Passport photos are preferred.
Submit a resume detailing the extent of their campus involvement, volunteerism, and work experience. This allows us to better assess leadership abilities.
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.
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.
Submit an official transcript sent directly from their campus registrars.
All application materials must be either emailed to amulinge@theinstitute.net or mailed to:
The Institute for Responsible Citizenship
1227 25th Street, NW, Sixth FL
Washington, DC 20037