The Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America (LEDA) conducts an annual national search to identify and support outstanding student leaders through a transformative educational experience. The LEDA Scholars program brings together exceptional high school juniors for an intensive, completely free five-week residential summer program.
The program alternates between two prestigious locations:
The five-week residential Summer Institute includes:
Cost: The entire program is completely free of charge to accepted Scholars.
Applicants must meet ALL of the following requirements:
Students attending private high schools with low or no tuition may also be eligible. Prospective applicants in this category should email LEDA directly to confirm eligibility before applying.
LEDA seeks students who demonstrate:
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| September 9, 2025 | Application opens |
| December 10, 2025 | Part I application deadline |
| Mid February 2026 | Part I decision notification |
| Late February 2026 | Part II application deadline |
| Early March 2026 | Part II decision notification |
| Mid March 2026 | Finalist interviews conducted |
| Early April 2026 | Final acceptance notification |
The LEDA application consists of two parts:
Prospective applicants can:
Christopher (Cohort 18, Lithonia, GA – Northeastern University): “This was nothing like I expected. Whatever standard I had set, LEDA set the bar 20 times higher. The knowledge and perspective gained, the community – the family – built during the Summer Institute has become the most valuable thing. There is hard work involved, but the time spent pays off tremendously. This opportunity truly does come once in a lifetime.”
Jasdeep (Cohort 17, Caruthers, CA – Harvard University): “LEDA has brought some of the best friendships possible. Prior to joining, I had little faith in myself and my future, but being surrounded by such motivating and uplifting individuals has changed how I view myself, the world, and any problems I encounter.”
Lindsay (Cohort 18, Oklahoma City, OK – Stanford University): “Before LEDA, the idea of college was something wanted for the future, but there was no clear path to make it the present. Attending the Summer Institute completely changed the approach to the college application process by supporting goals and helping plan how to reach them. The college fit philosophy is transformative: students do not have to fit the college; rather, the college should fit the student.”
Jarod (Cohort 17, Wichita, KS – Vassar College): “Applying for LEDA was the best decision made. LEDA not only gave valuable resources to help with the entire college application process but also welcomed students into a whole new community of peers, mentors, and people recognized as family.”
Sean (Cohort 19, Cypress, CA – Harvard University): “The effort and compassion that goes into the program is remarkable. LEDA gives 110% to achieve its vision, and evidence of these efforts is strikingly clear throughout the Summer Institute. Staff are committed to being welcoming and approachable, and professors are devoted to fostering a collaborative, discussion-based classroom where differences are celebrated, not judged.”
Giorgio (Cohort 20, Queens, NY): “LEDA truly is a community! People here come from all around the United States with different backgrounds and cultures, but differences bring everyone together. Learning about people and their stories is uplifting and beautiful. The individuals here become family and shape identity.”
The program emphasizes four foundational values:
LEDA emphasizes a distinctive approach to college selection based on individual fit rather than prestige alone. The program helps students identify colleges where they will thrive academically, socially, and personally, rather than forcing students to conform to institutional expectations.
Scholars frequently reference the phrase “LEDA 4 Life,” reflecting the lasting nature of the relationships and support network developed through the program. The LEDA community extends beyond the five-week Summer Institute, providing ongoing mentorship, networking opportunities, and peer support throughout college and beyond.
LEDA Scholars come from all regions of the United States, representing diverse backgrounds, cultures, and communities. This geographic and cultural diversity enriches the learning experience and broadens perspectives for all participants.
Downloadable Materials:
Stay Connected:
For the LEDA Scholars program, the key deadline is:
December 10, 2025 – Part I Application Deadline
However, there are multiple stages:
Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America (LEDA) 121 West 36th Street, #207 New York, NY 10018
Phone: (646) 582-3608 Email: leda@ledascholars.org
Note: All event times are listed in Eastern Time.
The LEDA Scholars program is a transformative opportunity for high-achieving students from modest economic backgrounds to prepare for college success and develop as future leaders. Information provided is for the 2026 application cycle and is subject to change. Prospective applicants should verify all details directly with LEDA.
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