Democracy Scholars

Discover Passions. Discuss Big Ideas. Prepare for College. Make Friends for Life. 

NYU Democracy Scholars offers rising high school seniors in New York City a FREE residential opportunity to learn in a college environment, explore relevant topics in political philosophy and social justice, and develop confidence in their academic and leadership capabilities. Students reside at NYU's campus from July 7 - 27, and continue to meet as Democracy Scholars throughout the duration of their senior year of high school to work on civic engagement projects.

Over the summer, students participate in small discussion-based seminars led by NYU professors and gain experience in college-level reading, writing and critical thinking. Additionally, students receive mentoring and support throughout the college application process from professors and Democracy Scholar Writing Mentors. Preference for the Democracy Scholars program will be given to first generation student applicants attending public high school. Only NYC residents are eligible to apply for NYU Democracy Scholars at this time.


Applications for the 2024-2025 academic year are now available.