Goes By: AEI Summer Honors Program
Be sure to consult the Fellowship Website for complete eligibility and competition requirements.
AEI Summer Honors Program Early Decision Deadline
Sunday, February 1, 2026
AEI Summer Honors Program Final Decision Deadline
Sunday, March 15, 2026
Educational and development opportunity for top undergraduate students to explore current issues at a preeminent policy thinktank in Washington, D.C.
Sponsored by policy think tank American Enterprise Institute, the Summer Honors Program gathers students from diverse ideological backgrounds for dialogue and debate about the most pressing issues facing the world. The program aims to provide students with a deeper understanding of contemporary public policy challenges, an appreciation for substantive dialogue across ideologies, and the knowledge and network to pursue a career in policy.
Accepted students will live in Washington, DC as they participate in a one-week seminar in a particular area of public policy alongside an AEI scholar or partner. These students will receive a $250 stipend, housing, most meals, and travel reimbursement. Students may apply for multiple courses but will only be admitted to one.
Applicants may also choose to be considered for the five-week Summer Honors Academy. Academy students will participate in a week-long series of roundtable discussions before continuing with courses of their choosing for the remaining four weeks alongside special briefings and a capstone policy debate. Academy participants will receive a $1,250 stipend in addition to housing, meals, and travel reimbursement.
Eligible students must have a graduation date no earlier than the winter preceding the program.
Letters of recommendation should be submitted no later than seven days after each application deadline.
Deadlines are typically in early February (early decision) and early March. Refer to the program website for details.
Housing, meals, travel reimbursement, and stipend ($250 for Honors Program, $1,250 for Honors Academy).
| Requirements | Details |
|---|---|
| Year(s) of Application | Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior, Alumni/Non-enrolled |
Minimum Grade Point Average |
3.5 |
Citizenship |
No Requirements |
| Campus Nomination Required | No |
Last updated: June 13, 2025
PROGRAM ON HIATUS FOR SUMMER 2022. A competitive six week summer leadership program that offers a small, select group of rising college juniors unparalleled opportunities in the nation’s capital and on the famous estate of America’s first president. Fully funded 6-week summer experience, including $600 per week stipend.
Fully-funded summer program for college juniors to study at one of several Junior Summer Institutes (JSI) in areas of public service and international affairs. Covers tuition at a PPIA JSI, $1,500 stipend, housing and meal plan, books and course materials.