The 2026 United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP), a week-long leadership and education program in Washington, D.C., set for March 7–14, 2026, is now accepting applications from high school students in Alabama (WDNews).
To join the 102 other delegates from across the country, two Alabama kids will be selected. Delegates study the federal government up close at Washington Week, meeting with the President, Cabinet members, a Supreme Court justice, U.S. Senators, and other national leaders.
Sen. Katie Britt of Alabama, who is co-chairing the program this year with Sen. Edward Markey of Massachusetts, expressed her excitement in seeing representation from her state.
“As a co-chair this year, I’m excited to support the United States Youth Program, which draws the best and brightest young leaders,” Britt remarked. I’m excited to meet the amazing kids who were chosen, especially the two Alabamans who I know will be outstanding representatives of our state.
The Hearst Foundations funds and manages USSYP, which was established in 1962. A $10,000 undergraduate college grant is awarded to each delegate, who is urged to pursue further education in public service, history, or government.
Candidates must be juniors or seniors in high school who are participating in a leadership role at their school or in an elected or appointed student government during the 2025–2026 academic year. In Alabama, the Department of Education oversees the selection process.
For state-specific deadlines and application information, interested students may get in touch with their high school administration, counselor, or visitussenateyouth.org.
