The CHCI NextGen Latino Leadership Program 2027 is an all-expenses-paid leadership opportunity for current 10th and 11th grade students who want to learn about government, civic engagement, leadership and public policy in Washington, D.C.
Organised by the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI), the week-long program brings high school students from across the United States together for leadership training, civic education, networking and educational activities in the nation’s capital.
For 2027, the program will be offered in two June sessions: June 6–12, 2027, and June 20–26, 2027. The application deadline is January 15, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.
CHCI NextGen Latino Leadership Program 2027 at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program | CHCI NextGen Latino Leadership Program |
| Host | Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) |
| Location | Washington, D.C., USA |
| Program Type | Free Leadership Program |
| Target Students | Current 10th & 11th Graders |
| Academic Year | 2026–27 |
| Session 1 | June 6–12, 2027 |
| Session 2 | June 20–26, 2027 |
| Application Opens | August 15, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | January 15, 2027 |
| Cost | Free |
| Travel & Lodging | Covered |
| Meals & Activities | Covered |
| Location Eligibility | 50 states, Puerto Rico & Washington, D.C. |
What Is the CHCI NextGen Latino Leadership Program?
The CHCI NextGen Latino Leadership Program is a week-long leadership and civic engagement experience created for high school students.
Participants travel to Washington, D.C., where they explore the nation’s capital, learn about the legislative process and develop leadership skills that can help them become more active in their schools and communities.
The program also connects students with Members of Congress, CHCI alumni, CHCI staff and other Latino leaders. Students from across the country participate together, allowing them to build a national network of young leaders.
The experience is designed to help students understand how government works while encouraging them to think about how they can create positive change in their communities.
Is the CHCI NextGen Latino Leadership Program Free?
Yes. The program is completely free for selected participants. CHCI states that travel, lodging, meals and program activities are covered through the support of CHCI and its sponsors.
This makes the NextGen Latino Leadership Program an attractive opportunity for high school students who want a Washington, D.C. leadership experience without paying program costs.
What Will Students Do in Washington, D.C.?
The CHCI NextGen experience combines leadership training, civic education, networking and sightseeing.
Participants may have opportunities to:
- Meet Members of Congress
- Tour Capitol Hill
- Explore museums
- Visit historic monuments and sites
- Meet prominent Latino leaders
- Learn how the U.S. political process works
- Participate in civic engagement education
- Take part in leadership development activities
- Connect with other student leaders
- Learn how to make a difference in their communities
- Build friendships with students from across the country
Students also become lifelong members of the CHCI Alumni Association, extending the program’s value beyond the week in Washington, D.C.
CHCI NextGen Latino Leadership Program Eligibility
To apply, students must:
- Be a current 10th or 11th grade student
- Demonstrate an interest in civic engagement
- Reside in one of the 50 U.S. states, Puerto Rico or Washington, D.C.
CHCI states that all individuals are welcome to apply, although preference is given to individuals with financial need.
There is no requirement in the current eligibility information stating that applicants must identify as Latino/a/x. CHCI welcomes applicants who are interested in investing in the Latino community or working on policies affecting the Latino population.
CHCI NextGen 2027 Program Dates
The 2027 NextGen Latino Leadership Program will take place during two separate June sessions.
Session 1: June 6–12, 2027
Session 2: June 20–26, 2027
Students can indicate their preferred week during the application process. However, CHCI makes the final session assignment, and the official program page notes that changes cannot be made after an applicant is assigned a week. Program dates are also subject to change based on the Congressional calendar.
What Do Students Need to Apply?
Applicants should prepare their materials before starting the online application.
According to CHCI, the 2027 NextGen application requires:
- Personal and contact information
- Demographic and educational information
- Emergency contact information
- Three short essays
- A copy of the high school transcript
- Recommender’s contact information
- Parent/Guardian Information and Permission Form
- An up-to-date resume
CHCI accepts an unofficial high school transcript. Students should contact their school counselor if they need help obtaining their transcript.
CHCI NextGen Latino Leadership Program Application Deadline
The application deadline for the CHCI NextGen Latino Leadership Program 2027 is:
January 15, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.
Applications must be completed online through CHCI’s application system before the deadline. Students outside the Eastern Time Zone should convert the deadline to their local time to avoid missing it.
The application launched on August 15, 2026.
How Competitive Is the CHCI NextGen Program?
Students should take the application seriously because the program attracts applicants interested in leadership, civic engagement and public service.
CHCI asks applicants to complete three short essays, provide a transcript, submit a recommendation contact and upload a resume.
The essays are particularly important because CHCI encourages students to be themselves and explain what matters to them rather than attempting to write what they believe the selection committee wants to hear.
Students should proofread their essays carefully and, where possible, ask a teacher or counselor to review them before submission.
Are Chaperones Provided?
Yes, students are supervised while participating in the program in Washington, D.C.
CHCI states that CHCI and Close Up staff supervise students at all times after they arrive in Washington, D.C. However, chaperones are not provided for students’ travel from their home cities to Washington, D.C.
Can Non-Latino Students Apply?
Yes.
CHCI states that individuals who do not identify as Latino/a/x may apply to its programs if they are interested in investing in the Latino community or working on policies affecting the Latino population.
Therefore, students should focus their application on their genuine interests, experiences and commitment to civic engagement rather than assuming they are automatically excluded because they do not identify as Latino/a/x.
Why Apply for the CHCI NextGen Latino Leadership Program?
For high school students interested in leadership, government, public service or civic engagement, the program can provide an early introduction to Washington, D.C., and the U.S. political system.
Students can gain:
- Leadership development
- Civic engagement experience
- Exposure to government and the legislative process
- Networking opportunities
- National connections with other students
- Experience communicating with established leaders
- A better understanding of issues affecting Latino communities
- A valuable experience to discuss in future college applications
The program also allows participants to develop relationships with peers from across the country and become part of the CHCI Alumni Association.
How to Apply for the CHCI NextGen Latino Leadership Program 2027
Eligible students should prepare their transcript, resume, recommendation information, parent/guardian information and three short essays before completing the online application.
The official application opened on August 15, 2026, and must be submitted by January 15, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. EST.
Official program and application: CHCI NextGen Latino Leadership Program
FAQs
What is the CHCI NextGen Latino Leadership Program?
It is a free, week-long leadership and civic engagement program that brings eligible high school students to Washington, D.C., to learn about government, leadership and public policy.
Who can apply for CHCI NextGen 2027?
Current 10th and 11th grade students during the 2026–27 academic year who meet CHCI’s residency and civic engagement requirements can apply.
When is the CHCI NextGen application deadline?
The deadline is January 15, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.
How much does the CHCI NextGen program cost?
There is no cost to selected students. Travel, lodging, meals and activities are covered.
Where does the CHCI NextGen program take place?
The program takes place in Washington, D.C.
Can I choose my session?
Applicants can state a preferred week, but CHCI makes the final assignment. Students cannot change their assigned session afterwards.
What should I include in my application?
Applicants need personal information, three short essays, a high school transcript, recommender information, parent/guardian information and permission, and an up-to-date resume.
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