United States Senate Youth Program

Overview

The 62nd annual United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) Washington Week is being planned for March 2-9, 2024. This annual program authorizes the selection of 104 student delegates—two high school juniors or seniors from each state, the District of Columbia, and the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA)—for an intensive week-long education and leadership program to be held either in Washington, D.C., or online. The program is merit based and highly competitive. Each student will also receive a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship with encouragement to pursue coursework in history and political science.  

Delegates will hear major policy addresses by senators, cabinet members, officials of the Departments of State and Defense, leaders of other federal agencies and senior members of the national media. Delegates also traditionally participate in a meeting with a justice of the U.S. Supreme Court and the president of the United States. Most speaking events include in-depth question and answer sessions.  

The Hearst Foundations will pay all expenses for Washington Week including transportation, hotel, and meals. The Department of Defense (DoD) annually provides a team of competitively selected men and women officers to serve as mentors and chaperones for the student delegates, and a registered nurse, licensed physician, and professional security team are always in place throughout an in-person week.  

Application 

Students who qualify may complete the Tennessee student application. 

The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. CT on September 22, 2023.