The California Department of Education (CDE) is inviting all public and private high schools in the state to nominate up to two outstanding juniors or seniors interested in pursuing careers in public service for the 2027 United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP).
Program Details
Two student delegates from each state will be selected to participate in the 65th Annual Washington Week, held in Washington, D.C., March 6–13, 2027.
Selected delegates will participate in a comprehensive, interactive leadership program and will each receive a $12,500 college scholarship.
Eligibility Requirements
Students must:
- Be nominated by their high school principal
- Be a junior or senior
- Be currently serving in an elected or appointed leadership position in a student government, civic, or educational organization for the entire 2026–27 school year
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
- Be currently enrolled in a California public or independent high school
- Live in California for the entire academic year
The CDE will select four California finalists: two delegates and a first and second alternate.
Application Deadline
Students nominated by their principal must complete and submit the required application materials by:
Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 3 p.m.
Application instructions and materials are available on the CDE USSYP webpage:
https://www.cde.ca.gov/eo/in/us/
Questions
Email [email protected] for additional information.