The NextGen Service Summer Policy Academy (SPA) is a fully funded three-week professional development experience for undergraduate college students interested in exploring impactful public service careers.
Students from all academic disciplines are eligible to apply!
Applications for summer 2025 are closed. Check back in the fall for summer 2026 application information.
Selected students will:
- Convene in Washington, DC from June 15 to 22 for site visits to federal agencies, panel discussions with public servant leaders, professional skill development, leadership training, and visits to national museums.
- Complete a two-week residential study program from June 23 to July 3 at one of three participating host schools organized around a policy topic.
- Receive a $1,000 stipend!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply?
To be eligible, applicants must be:
- An undergraduate student who will be a senior in the 2025-26 academic year.
- In good academic standing (i.e., “on track” to graduate in 2026).
What criteria will be considered in selecting participants?
Strong applicants will convey an authentic interest in learning more about public service career opportunities and developing change-making skills through their resume and responses to essay prompts. The selection process will also consider applicants’ undergraduate university affiliation to ensure representation from Midwestern schools. Preference will be given to applicants from historically marginalized backgrounds, Pell Grant recipients, and first-generation college students.
How do I apply?
To be considered for this opportunity, students must complete the online application. The deadline to apply is February 7, 2025 at 9:59 p.m. CT.
How much will the program cost? Will I be compensated?
Travel, lodging, and meal expenses will be covered by the program. Students will also be awarded a $1,000 stipend.
Will each host school offer the same programming? How will I be placed at my host school?
The skills and curricular opportunities at each host school will have common elements, but each will offer unique experiences organized around different policy lenses. You will be required to rank each school based on your preference in the application. While we cannot promise you will be placed at your first-choice school, we will take your rankings and interests expressed in your application into consideration.
Who should I contact if I have more questions about the program?
For questions or to report any technical difficulties in completing the application, email [email protected]. For more details, please visit the Volcker Alliance website.