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.

The 64th annual United State Senate Youth Program Washington Week is scheduled for: March 7-14, 2026

2025 Delegates are Sebastian Rios and Christopher Lee.

“Through closely examining our nation's history and learning directly from the current leaders of our country, Washington Week was the greatest expedition imaginable into public service."

• Sebastian Rios, 2025 Delegate

"Every delegate I met reinvigorated my desire for public service."

• Christopher Lee, 2025 Delegate

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

• 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 2025–2026 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 2025–2026 school year to be eligible.

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 7-14

Nomination Deadline – September 5, 2025, 5:00pm

Application sent to qualified candidates – September 19. 2025, 5:00pm

Application Deadline – October 24, 2025, 5:00pm

Interviews Conducted – November 2025

Delegate Announcements – December 2025

Submit nominations via the Nomination Form. All high schools can nominate any number of students. Students may be self-nominated.