The Civic Innovation Academy is a one-week, in-person experience designed for the most innovative young change-makers. Over the course of a week, you’ll join a cohort of 75 Civic Fellows from across the country, and meet face-to-face with legislators, organizers, CEOs, and academics to explore the diverse world of change.
You'll use what you've learned to work directly with staff from executive departments to brainstorm solutions to problems facing our nation. Previous Fellows have met with representatives from the departments of State, Treasury, Education, and The White House.
The Civic Innovation Academy is a one-week, in-person experience designed for the most innovative young change-makers. Over the course of a week, you’ll join a cohort of 75 Civic Fellows from across the country, and meet face-to-face with legislators, organizers, CEOs, and academics to explore the diverse world of change.
You'll use what you've learned to work directly with staff from the departments of State, Treasury, Education, and The White House to brainstorm solutions to problems facing our nation.
The application contains a written component, and some applicants will be invited to interview.
U.S. based high school students. Students who graduate High School in June ‘24 may also apply.
Extended Deadline! | Applications close on April 5th, 2024, at 11:59 PM EST. All applicants will be notified of their admission decision by April 30th.
The program runs June 22-29 2024.
The program is in person in Washington D.C. The program is free, including housing + meals. Accepted students cover their own travel costs, but financial aid is available.
Throughout the Academy, you’ll learn from social-change experts across sectors, and work in teams to explore D.C. and create solutions to real-world issues.
Kick off the day with a morning run, workout, meditation session, or other activities guided by Civics Unplugged staff. Then, grab breakfast with your class!
Led by members of the CU Team, you’ll start the day with a deep dive in systems thinking, history, organizing and tech. Guest speakers will join throughout the day for fireside chats and in-depth workshops.
Travel into Washington in small teams to meet with representatives from the Department of State, Treasury, Transportation, Education, and The White House. Together, you'll brainstorm solutions to problem's they're focused on
Return to Georgetown for free time, movie nights, boba-tea runs, and other fun community activities. On some nights, we'll travel in to DC to see the sights!
Will there be chaperones?
Yes. Georgetown University and Civics Unplugged staff will be on-site 24/7. All staff will have undergone the necessary screening and training as required by Georgetown University.
Who is eligible for the Academy?
High school students from anywhere in the world. Students whose gap year began in June 2024 are also eligible to apply.
Is the Civic Innovation Academy at Georgetown Free?
Yes, the program is entirely free. All students in attendance are provided with in Georgetown University’s Dorms, and three meals throughout the day. The only cost for students is their travel to and from D.C.
If you believe you will have trouble covering this cost, please still apply. Students will have the opportunity to apply for financial aid once they have been accepted to the program. It is our commitment to keep all Civics Unplugged programs 100% accessible to all students who are accepted.
Can you accommodate dietary and disability needs?
Yes! Once accepted, our team will reach out to ensure all accommodations are met.
How does travel work?
Students are responsible for their own travel to and from D.C. Once they arrive in the local airport/bus station, team members and transportation will be on site to take them to Georgetown University.
Staff will also take them back to their departure terminal at the end of the program.
I've never been to DC before; will I have time to see the city?
Most educational sessions will take place in the morning. Students will spend the rest of the day in small groups, exploring D.C. and meeting with elected officials and government representatives. Sightseeing included!
Will I have a roomate?
Yes, all Fellows will have a roommate. Roommates are asigned in accordance with UCLA dorm policy
What is the difference between the program at Georgetown verus UCA? Can I apply to both?
Both Civic Innovation Academies have the same core curriculum, but leverage their geographic location to provide on-site collaboration opportunities for fellows. At Georgetown, those visits are much more federal government focused, while at UCLA, students will explore more climate & STEM related avenues of civics.
Fellows can only apply to one Civic Innovation Academy.
What is the acceptance rate?
Typically our in-person programs have a 5-10% acceptance rate.
What are the application requirements?
The application consists of basic demographic information and a few written response questions to gauge your potential as a civic innovator.
Does CU have a political affiliation?
No, CU is a non-partisan organization. And in fact, our training helps students grow into thinkers and leaders whose identity and impact transcend conventional political bounds.
When do applications open and close?
The application for both the Civic Innovation Academy at Georgetown and UCLA close on April 1st, 2024.
The Academy gives you the opportunity to attend workshops led by members of Congress and CEOs, and work alongside top officials at the departments of State, Treasury, Education, and Transportation. No other program puts you in the room with the people impacting policy at such a high level.
75 Fellows
In Person
Program Dates: June 22-29, 2024
APPLICATIONS CLOSED!
The Civic Innovators Fellowship is designed for young leaders who are passionate about solving community issues and want to channel their passion into innovative action. You'll learn the 5 skills of a civic innovator, dive deep into case studies and solvathons, and get matched with mentors, internships, and funding opportunities.
350 fellows
Virtual
Program Dates: September 15-November 18
Application Deadline: September 1st, 2024
The Digital Citizen Fellowship is a 10 week educational program for high school students interested in data, AI, algorithms, social media, and the digital world. During the program, you’ll learn about everything from the history of the internet and machine learning to how new technologies can strengthen our democracy.
100 Fellows
Virtual
Program Dates: February - April
APPLICATIONS CLOSED!
Travel to Austin, TX to attend workshops led by experts in housing, transportation, energy, jobs, and public infrastructure who are solving challenges in one of the country's fastest growing cities.
30 Fellows
Program Dates: November 16-19 2023
APPLICATIONS CLOSED!
The Academy gives you the opportunity to attend workshops led by members of Congress and CEOs, work alongside leading researchers and private companies, and explore the civic innovation happening in Los Angeles.
50 Fellows
In Person at UCLA
Program Dates: Aug 11-17, 2024
APPLICATIONS CLOSED!