How to Apply

Early applications are due March 3, 2024 and Regular Applications are due March 31, 2024. You may still apply after the deadlines have passed, but we may not have openings left. 

  • Check your eligibility

    We can only accept current juniors who live in New York City. We prioritize first-generation college-bound students from low-income families. Students must be able to commit to the full summer and academic year program. Read more here.

  • Get parental permission

    Your parents or guardians will need to sign your application, promising to:

    • Give permission for you to participate in the Freedom and Citizenship program at Columbia University.

    • Allow you to live in the dormitories Sunday through Friday afternoons for the four weeks of the summer program.

    • Avoid scheduling medical or other appointments for my student during the summer program.

    • Support your participation in the full summer AND year-long program.

  • Gather your materials

    You'll need to submit a high school transcript, an optional letter of recommendation, and three short essays. You can submit your counselor and recommender's email addresses into the application and we'll send them an email requesting the appropriate materials. Read more here.

  • Submit an online application

    Visit our application home page for the application portal. Applications cannot be saved if you log in from a new browser or computer so we recommend waiting to start an application until you're ready to submit. You can view a sample application and the application checklist before beginning.