2026 Summer Honors Program at AEI (Fully Funded): Call for Applications for Top Undergraduates

The Summer Honors Program at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) is now open for applications, inviting top undergraduate students and recent graduates to participate in an intensive, fully-funded educational and professional development opportunity.

Situated in the heart of Washington, DC, this program provides participants the opportunity to connect with the ideas, research, and network of AEI—one of America’s preeminent policy think tanks. The program acts as a forum for substantive dialogue and debate on the most pressing issues facing the country and the world.

The program targets ambitious students with diverse ideological perspectives who wish to delve deeply into policy areas such as economics, foreign policy, political philosophy, and public theology.

What the Program Offers

Participants will engage in a rigorous one-week seminar and receive access to:

• Intensive Seminars: Deep dives into contemporary public policy challenges.

• Exclusive Briefings: Sessions with distinguished guests and policy experts.

• Professional Networking: High-level opportunities to build connections in the policy world.

• Fully Funded Experience: Participants receive reimbursement for travel, housing, meals on class days, and a $250 stipend.

2026 Course Highlights

The program features 18 week-long courses across June and July. Examples include:

• Thinking About War with Kori Schake

• Liberalism and the Common Good with Yuval Levin

• The Constitution: Original Meanings with John Yoo

• Climate Risks and Realities with Roger Pielke, Jr.

Important: Course Selection Criteria

Class discussions will be high-level and academic. Therefore, applicants are strongly encouraged to:

• Read the full course descriptions on the program homepage carefully.

• Select subject areas in which they have previous exposure or academic background.

• Note that selection prioritizes students who demonstrate substantial knowledge of the chosen course topics.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Academic Status: Current undergraduates or recent graduates (graduating Winter 2025 or later).

• Academic Standing: A 3.5 GPA or above is recommended.

• Nationality: International students are eligible to apply.

• Class Size: 12–18 students per class to ensure high-quality debate.

Program Dates & Deadlines

• Early Decision Deadline: 1 February 2026 (Priority consideration).

• Final Application Deadline: 15 March 2026.

• Program Duration: One-week courses throughout June and July 2026.

Who Should Apply?

The program is ideal for:

• Students with leadership positions on or off campus.

• Individuals ready to engage in respectful dialogue across ideological divides.

• Aspiring policy professionals seeking a future career in Washington, DC.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must complete the official online application form. Applicants should list their course preferences based on prior knowledge and submit letters of recommendation within seven days of the deadline.

For any inquiries regarding the application process, candidates may contact the team at [email protected].

Apply Here