The National Rifle Association is proud to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 NRA Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.), a prestigious, all-expense-paid, six-day leadership and scholarship program for rising high school juniors and seniors. The summit will take place July 21–26, 2026, in Washington, D.C.
For more than 25 years, Y.E.S. has united some of America’s brightest, most driven, and patriotic youth for an unforgettable week of education, leadership, and civic engagement. Participants meet with political leaders, tour historic landmarks, and sharpen their skills through debates and public speaking, all while competing for valuable college scholarships.
The mission of Y.E.S. is to inspire students to explore the foundations of American government, the Bill of Rights, and the U.S. Constitution, while encouraging them to return to their communities as active citizens and advocates for the Second Amendment.
Highlights of the 2026 Y.E.S. Program Include:
- Meeting with NRA leadership
- Practicing marksmanship at the NRA Range
- Touring the National Firearms Museum
- Participating in debates on current issues
- Viewing the Constitution and Bill of Rights at the National Archives
- Exploring D.C.’s monuments and memorials
- Touring the U.S. Capitol Building
- Attending the 8th & I Parade
- Honoring fallen heroes at Arlington National Cemetery
Past participants describe the program as life-changing. Kolin R. from New Mexico shared:
“My favorite part was the opportunities I had to exercise my individual rights, with crucial lessons along the way. From defending my right to bear arms by shooting at the NRA Range, to expressing my freedom of speech with public speaking and debate. This was an experience like no other. I bonded with friends and mentors, traveled through history, and began making it ourselves. Most importantly, I learned to raise your hand the highest you can and put every ounce of effort into your beliefs, your confidence, and your success.”
How to Apply
Y.E.S. is open to current high school sophomores and juniors nationwide. Applicants must submit the following:
- High school transcript
- A three-page essay on the Second Amendment
- Personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- A short phone interview
The application deadline is January 18, 2026. For full details and to apply, visit yes.nra.org. Questions may be directed to [email protected].
Follow the NRA Youth Education Summit on Facebook and Instagram @NRAYouthEducationSummit for updates and announcements.
