The NRA is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.), set to take place from July 22nd to July 27th, 2025, in Washington, D.C. This marks the 24th annual Y.E.S., a prestigious, all-expense-paid, six-day leadership and scholarship program designed for high school sophomores and juniors.
For over two decades, the NRA’s Youth Education Summit has brought together some of the brightest, most ambitious and patriotic youth from across the nation to engage in an unforgettable educational experience in our nation’s capital. During this week-long summit, students will have the unique opportunity to interact with political leaders, explore historic monuments, and participate in competitive debates, all while vying for college scholarships.
The Youth Education Summit is not just a visit to Washington, D.C.; it’s a comprehensive scholarship-based experience aimed at deepening students' understanding of American government, the Bill of Rights, and the U.S. Constitution. Y.E.S. inspires students to become responsible citizens who actively engage in the democratic process and return to their communities as advocates for the Second Amendment.
What to Expect During Y.E.S.
- Meetings with NRA leadership
- Target practice at the NRA range
- Tours of the National Firearms Museum
- Debates on current issues
- Viewing the Constitution and Bill of Rights at the National Archives
- Tours of Washington, D.C. monuments and memorials
- An inside look at the U.S. Capitol Building
- Visits to the American History Museum
- Attendance at the Marine Barracks, 8th & I Parade
- Paying respects at Arlington National Cemetery
- Opportunities to earn college scholarships
- Connecting with other like-minded students from across the U.S.
- And much more!
John C., a past Y.E.S. participant from Minnesota, shared, "Y.E.S. helped me gain the confidence and skills required to move up into leadership and management in my career. Without Y.E.S., I wouldn’t have understood the value of presenting myself and my intentions clearly and directly."
In addition to the invaluable educational experience, Y.E.S. participants have the chance to compete for up to $40,000 in college scholarships. Since its inception in 1996, Y.E.S. has awarded over $700,000 in scholarships, made possible through Friends of NRA fundraising and The NRA Foundation.
How to Apply
Applications for the 2025 Youth Education Summit are now open. Eligible applicants are current high school sophomores and juniors. To apply, students must submit a completed application through our online portal, including their high school transcript, a three-page essay on the Second Amendment, a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation. The application deadline is January 19th, 2025.
Please note, residents of Idaho must first apply to and attend the Idaho State Summit to be eligible for the National Y.E.S. The Idaho application is available on our website under Idaho State Summits.
For more information about the NRA Youth Education Summit, to apply, read frequently asked questions, or donate, visit our website at yes.nra.org.
Contact: Riley Hoaglin, NRA Youth Education Summit Coordinator; [email protected]
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