Debate & Leadership Institute Application

Hosted and presented in partnership with Founding Forward and The Bill of Rights Institute, The Debate & Leadership Institute held in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania on Founding Forward’s 75-acre campus, is a unique, 5-day, overnight debate program where rising 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students from across the nation gather to strengthen their debate skills and deepen their civic knowledge. Apply for the program by completing the application below.

Next steps after you apply:

Founding Forward and the Bill of Rights Institute will notify students if they have been accepted into the program starting the first week of February 2026. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a rolling basis. Accepted students will then complete a registration form by May 2026, which includes a $150 non-refundable application fee, to attend The Debate & Leadership Institute. 

We are committed to ensuring that every qualified participant has the opportunity to take part in our programs. If the $150 registration fee presents a challenge, we encourage participants to contact our team to discuss financial assistance or explore flexible options. 

Please note:

The application includes a written response from the student applying as well as a letter of recommendation from a non-adult family member.

When answering the written prompts in the application, please focus on expressing your own ideas and using your unique voice. The goal is to think critically and show your writing skills.

While AI tools can be useful for research or grammar checks, they should not be used to write any part of your essay. You may use AI to find sources or clarify concepts, but the content, structure, and language must be entirely your own. This is an opportunity to showcase your thoughts and independent thinking. Let your work reflect your creativity, passion, and knowledge!

To process the applications, the information you provide in this form will be shared with the Bill of Rights Institute, who is co-hosting this program. Your information will not be bought, sold, or shared with any other party.