The NRA Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.) is a weeklong educational program in Washington, D.C., that brings together up to 40 high school students The mission of Y.E.S. is to give students an opportunity to expand their knowledge of our American government, Bill of Rights, and the U.S. Constitution; encourage them to become active participants in the uniquely American democratic process; and give them the tools and confidence to return to their communities as articulate, committed leaders on behalf of the Second Amendment.
Scholarship Details
- Up to $40,000 in college scholarships are awarded annually through the Youth Education Summit and Grand Scholarship programs
- Up to 40 high school students are selected to participate in the weeklong summer program in Washington, D.C.
- Participants engage in educational activities focused on American government, the Bill of Rights, the U.S. Constitution, and civic leadership
- Scholarships are awarded to outstanding participants during the program's concluding banquet
- Students interested in serving as NRA Ambassadors may establish NRA programs in their communities and apply for an additional Grand Scholarship
- Applicants are evaluated on academic achievement, leadership, community service, written materials, and an interview
- Since 1996, more than 1,200 students have completed the program, and over $750,000 in scholarships have been awarded
Eligibility Criteria
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be a current high school sophomore or junior at the time of application
- Be entering their junior or senior year of high school in the fall of 2027
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Be available and able to attend the entire 2027 Y.E.S. session in Washington, D.C., July 27–August 1, 2027
- Complete the Y.E.S. application by the application deadline of January 10, 2027
- Submit all required application materials, including a high school transcript, essay, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and interview
- Demonstrate an interest in American government, the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, leadership, and civic engagement
- Be willing to actively participate in all required Y.E.S. activities throughout the week
Application Process
- Visit the NRA Youth Education Summit Application Portal and complete the online application form.
- Obtain a copy of your high school transcript.
- Write a three-page essay addressing the Second Amendment.
- Prepare a one-page personal statement describing your background, interests, and qualifications.
- Request three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with your academic accomplishments, leadership abilities, or community involvement.
- Submit the completed application and all required supporting materials according to the program's instructions.
- Participate in a 10-minute telephone or video interview as part of the selection process.
- If selected, attend the weeklong Youth Education Summit in Washington, D.C., and participate in its educational and leadership activities.
- Students interested in additional scholarship funding may pursue the NRA Ambassador opportunity and submit a separate Grand Scholarship application after establishing qualifying community programs.
The application process is competitive. Applicants are evaluated based on their complete application, including academic performance, written responses, recommendations, and interview. Selected students will be invited to participate in the 2027 Y.E.S. program.
