2025 Civic Leadership Institute

The Civic Leadership Institute is designed for high school students interested in American civics, government, and history who are committed to their communities and have the academic potential to succeed in a rigorous, college-like environment. Eligible applicants will be rising high school freshman, sophomores, juniors, or seniors with a minimum of 2.75 GPAs. Statewide representation (geographic diversity) is also a consideration in student selection. Applicants will be selected based on academic achievement, drawn from these materials, and including the following criteria:

Participation in the 2025 MyImpact Challenge Competition. MyImpact Challenge is a civic engagement contest hosted by the Bill of Rights Institute designed to highlight students actively engaged in service, volunteerism, or entrepreneurship in their communities.

My Impact Challenge Information

Ensure you have a copy of your unofficial transcripts and a letter of recommendation before starting your application, as both are required. 

• Academic achievement evidenced by cumulative GPA  and success in relevant coursework (e.g., American History or Government) - minimum grade of B in all high school history or government classes taken to date.
• A letter of recommendation is required with your application.
• A statement of interest should be no more than 250 words. Please tell us why you want to attend the Civic Leadership Institute and what you hope to get from the experience. 

• Participation in the 2025 MyImpact Challenge Competition: MyImpact Challenge is a civic engagement contest hosted by the Bill of Rights Institute designed to highlight students actively engaged in service, volunteerism, or entrepreneurship in their communities. To participate in the 2025 Civic Leadership Institute, students must submit a valid application to the 2025 MyImpact Challenge contest.

   

Applications are due May 4th at midnight!

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A minimum travel stipend of $250 for students will be available upon completing the Civic Leadership Institute.

Civic Leadership Institute 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Civic Leadership Institute?

The Civic Leadership Institute is a free, college-style summer program for Arizona high school students who are passionate about civics, government, history, and community service. Hosted by Arizona State University’s Center for American Civics in partnership with the Flinn Foundation and the Bill of Rights Institute, this selective program offers a unique opportunity to explore civic leadership at a deeper level.

Who is eligible to apply?

High school students who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:

• Entering 9th through 12th grade in the 2025–2026 academic year
• Demonstrated interest in civics, history, and/or public service
• Minimum GPA of 2.75
• Grade of B or higher in all history/government classes
• Strong performance in related coursework (such as U.S. History or Government)

How much does it cost to attend?

The Civic Leadership Institute is free of charge, thanks to generous support from our program partners.

Is housing provided?

While housing is not provided, a travel stipend is available to help offset hotel and transportation costs. Stipend amounts start at $250 and vary based on the distance traveled within Arizona.

When will I receive the travel stipend?

Stipends are paid directly to students after the successful completion of the program.

What materials do I need to apply?

Applicants must submit the following:

• One letter of recommendation
• A 250-word statement of interest responding to:
  • Why do you want to attend the Civic Leadership Institute?
  • What do you hope to gain from the experience?
• A valid entry to the 2025 MyImpact Challenge, a civic engagement contest hosted by the Bill of Rights Institute

Is the MyImpact Challenge required?

Yes. All applicants must submit an entry to the 2025 MyImpact Challenge as part of their application to the Civic Leadership Institute.

Learn more and submit your entry: billofrightsinstitute.org/my-impact-challenge

Are students from all parts of Arizona encouraged to apply?

Yes. We are committed to assembling a diverse and representative cohort from across the state.

Important Dates

• Civic Leadership Institute Application Due: May 4, 2025
• MyImpact Challenge Submission Due: May 18, 2025

Need help with your application?

For questions or support, please contact:
Liz Evans
Program Director for Civic Education and Outreach
Email: [email protected]Visit: civics.asu.edu/cli