By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Published September 2025
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) announced that applications are now open for the 64th Annual United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) Washington Week, which offers high school students a unique opportunity to study the federal government in the nation’s capital.
“It’s an honor to encourage Alabama’s brightest young leaders to apply for this once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Sen. Britt said. “The Senate Youth Program provides an unparalleled opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the legislative process and the responsibilities of public service.”
The USSYP Washington Week will take place in March 2026 in Washington, D.C. Two student delegates from each state will be selected to participate, joining 104 students nationwide for a week of intensive study of the federal government. Delegates also receive a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship to support their future education.
Applicants must be high school juniors or seniors serving in a student government, civic, or educational leadership role. The program is fully funded by the William Randolph Hearst Foundation and has provided civic education opportunities for more than 6,000 students since its founding in 1962.
“I strongly encourage eligible students from across Alabama to apply,” Britt said. “This program equips the next generation of leaders with the knowledge, inspiration, and connections they need to make a difference.”
For application details and deadlines, students may visit the Alabama State Department of Education’s website or contact their school counselor.
Application Requirements for 2026 USSYP
- Must be a high school junior or senior actively enrolled during the entire 2025–2026 academic year.
- Legal U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is required at the time of application. Non-citizens must possess an I-551 (“green card”).
- Must be serving in a high-level leadership position (elected or appointed) in a student government, civic, or educational organization for the entire school year. Qualifying roles include:
- Student Body President, Vice President, Secretary, or Treasurer
- Class President, Vice President, Secretary, or Treasurer
- Student Council Representative
- National Honor Society officer (including discipline-based honor societies with service components)
- Elected or appointed representative to a civic/service/educational group (local up to state-level)
- Residency requirement: Must reside in the state they represent for the full school year.
- Ineligible positions include: Participation in Model UN, mock trial, debate teams, Boys/Girls State, or similar academic clubs or competitions that primarily serve educational benefit rather than public representation.
Students can learn more about eligibility, application procedures, and deadlines by contacting their high school principal or counselor, or by visiting www.ussenateyouth.org for state-specific application details.