Sponsoring Institution: ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union)

Type: Advocacy Scholarship

Eligibility:

• Applicant has successfully attended the ACLU’s National Advocacy Institute for high school students (in-person and virtual programs qualify);
• Applicant is currently in their senior year of high school;
• Applicant is fully eligible for high school graduation and expects to enroll in higher education in Fall 2025
• Eligible candidates will need to submit an application consisting of:
• • Personal Information
  • High School Transcript
  • Two Letters of Recommendation
  • Personal Statement
  • Essay Questions (One Long-Form, Two Short-Form)
  • High School Resume or CV
  • SAT/ACT/AP/IB Test Scores (optional)

Application Deadline: Late March

Highlight:  Are you a passionate leader who wants to turn your voice into action? The ACLU Scholarship for Emerging Advocates is a prestigious national award designed to support high school seniors who are deeply committed to advocating for social justice and civil rights. Open to students who have completed the ACLU’s National Advocacy Institute (in-person or virtual), this highly selective scholarship offers $10,000 per year, totaling $40,000 over four years of college. Through the lens of civil liberties and equity, emerging advocates are chosen for their leadership, initiative, and dedication to creating change in their communities. Scholars join a national cohort of youth leaders, gaining access to exclusive advocacy training, mentorship, and ACLU-organized opportunities that foster academic and personal growth. From organizing protests to leading local campaigns, applicants demonstrate the power of youth-led advocacy and civic engagement. With a focus on empowering the next generation of advocates, this program prepares students for careers in law, policy, and public service. For young changemakers passionate about justice, the ACLU Scholarship for Emerging Advocates offers a transformative path toward impact, leadership, and long-term support.