100 qualified high school juniors who show leadership potential but lack the exposure and support they need to attend highly selective colleges. LEDA Scholars receive leadership training, writing instruction, standardized test preparation and a year of highly personalized guidance as they navigate the application and admissions process at the most competitive colleges.
| Who should apply? | first-gen and/or low-income students |
| Eligible Grade Levels | juniors |
| Cost | free |
| Opens | now open |
| Deadline | December 14, 2021 |
| Decisions Released | April – May 2022 |
| Location | Princeton University (7-week fully funded summer institute experience) |
| Selectivity | one cohort of 100 students per year |
| Link | https://ledascholars.org/ |
Application Requirements
- high school junior (c/o 2023)
- US citizen, permanent resident, or has DACA status
- annual household income under $90,000
- minimum UW GPA of 3.5
Application Process
Round 1 (now open, due Dec. 14, 2021 @ 11:59 PST)
- requirements: academic profile from counselor, biographical info, financial info, graded essay w/ teacher comments, personal statement + supplemental essay (total of 2 essays), extracurricular activities, ONE letter of recommendation
Round 2 (March-April 2022, finalist round)
- requirements: verification of income (tax returns+ legal status, academic info update)
April-May 2022: Results are released
Notes
Successful applicants demonstrate:
- A desire to be challenged academically
- A strong commitment to their studies
- A desire to be a leader in their families, schools, and communities
- A connection to LEDA’s Core Values of Excellence, Integrity, Compassion, and Community