What is the United States Senate Youth Program?

Established in 1962, the United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) offers a unique educational experience for outstanding high school students interested in public service careers. Two student leaders from each state, the District of Columbia, and the Department of Defense Education Activity are selected to spend a week in Washington, D.C., experiencing their national government in action. Delegates engage with senators, cabinet members, officials from the Departments of State and Defense, and a U.S. Supreme Court justice. Each delegate receives a $10,000 college scholarship.

To apply for the U.S. Senate Youth Program, students must meet all the following criteria:

• Be able to attend attend 65th annual Washington Week March 6-13, 2027
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (documentation required).
• Be currently enrolled as a junior or senior in a Nevada public or private high school during the 2026–2027 school year.
• Hold a current elected or appointed leadership position in a student government, civic, or educational organization for the full academic year. Acceptable Leadership Positions Include:
  • Class President, Vice President, Secretary, or Treasurer
  • Student Council Representative
  • Student Body Officer
  • Representative appointed by a board, commission, or panel to serve on a district, regional, or state-level civic or educational committee

Not Eligible: Positions in school clubs or teams that are not tied to governance or civic leadership (e.g., Chess Club President, Debate Team Captain, Athletic Team Captain).

Q: Can I still apply if I'm homeschooled or attend an online school?
A: Yes — if you are enrolled in an accredited Nevada high school program and meet the leadership requirements.

Q: What if I was elected mid-year?
A: You must serve in the qualifying role for the entire 2026–2027 school year to be eligible.

Q: Do I have to be nominated?
A: Nominations are not required.

Eligible students must submit a complete application demonstrating the following:

• Strong leadership experience through civic or school service
• Active participation in the listed leadership position throughout the academic year
• High academic performance
• Knowledge of U.S. history and government
• Participation in school and/or community activities
• Clear, organized writing using standard English
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Willingness to participate in an interview with the Nevada selection committee (if invited)
• Be available to attend Washington Week March 6-13

Nominations will not be required this year

Applications open September 21, 2026

Application Deadline – October 25, 2026, 5:00pm

Interviews Conducted – November 2026

Delegate Announcements – December 2026

2026-2027 Application available September 21, 2026

The 64th annual United State Senate Youth Program Washington Week was held March 7-14, 2026, and a Day at the Capitol was held April 24, 2026.

2026 Delegates are Delegates are Ethan Cohen and Kyle Allen.

“I am incredibly grateful to the Nevada Department of Education for selecting me for the United States Senate Youth Program and for providing me the opportunity to represent Nevada and its youth on a national stage. I am also sincerely thankful to the Hearst Foundations for their true commitment to bettering our communities and serving youth, empowering them with the confidence to make a positive difference and forge change. I am deeply appreciative to both the Nevada Department of Education and the Hearst Foundations for making Carson City Day possible.”

• Ethan Cohen, the Meadows School

"USSYP has been the greatest experience of my life, allowing me to make lasting friendships and empower my leadership as I prepare for the next chapter."

• Kyle Allen, Carson City High School