How can I learn more about the Emerging Leaders Program?
You can learn more about the Acton Institute Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) by visiting The Acton Institute ELP homepage, or by contacting our Program Outreach staff at [email protected] .
What is the deadline for applying to The Acton Institute Emerging Leaders Program?
Applications for the 2025 Emerging Leaders Program will open on November 1st. The early decision deadline is November 30th. As the Emerging Leaders Program is highly competitive, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible for consideration.
Those who apply by November 30th will receive a response to their application by December 20th. Depending on the volume of early applications, some early decision applicants may be notified that they will be considered with the general application pool.
The final deadline to apply for the program is February 15th. All applicants will receive a response no later than March 15th.
What are the requirements to be accepted to the Emerging Leaders Program at Acton Institute?
We accept rising juniors, seniors, recent graduates and graduate students into the program. While our most competitive candidates have a GPA of 3.5 or higher, we do not have a strict GPA requirement.
Do Emerging Leaders have the opportunity to attend Acton University?
All Acton Institute Emerging Leaders Program participants have the opportunity to attend Acton University. Those accepted will be able to interact with over 900 leaders from 70+ countries, as well as attend lectures from world class scholars.
Will I have any opportunities to write for Religion and Liberty Online?
Yes, no matter which department you are assigned to, all Emerging Leaders have the opportunity to submit article(s) for publication to Acton’s Religion and Liberty online publication.
What is the stipend offered for The Acton Institute Emerging Leaders Program?
Acton Institute’s Summer Emerging Leaders Program provides a generous stipend for the 8-week program for participants based in the U.S. Stipends for international participants will be based on VISA status. Housing is also provided for all participants. See below for more details.
Are Acton Emerging Leaders Program stipends taxable?
The stipend participants receive is taxable by the IRS and may be taxable by other tax authorities.
Do I have to move to Grand Rapids to participate in the Acton Institute Emerging Leaders Program?
Yes. Acton’s ELP requires that all participants relocate to Grand Rapids for the 8 week duration of the summer program. You can learn more about the vibrant Grand Rapids community here.
Does the Acton Institute provide housing?
Yes. Acton Institute will provide housing for our summer Emerging Leaders. We secure housing at Grand Valley State University Downtown Campus – conveniently located less than one mile from the Acton building for an easy walk to the office. The GVSU apartment complex is also located near a main bus route. You can view the Grand Rapids bus schedule here. This housing comes fully furnished and kitchen appliances, cookware, and dishes are provided.
What opportunities exist after the program?
Acton Institute places a high priority on helping program participants with job placement at the conclusion of their time with us. Our alumni relations department assists with placing program participants in careers throughout our network. The Acton Institute has gone on to hire a significant number of past program participants.
Do you accept applicants through the Charles Koch Institute?
Yes, students are welcome to apply for The Acton Institute Emerging Leaders Program through the Charles Koch Institute. Visit https://standtogetherfellowships.org/koch-internship-program/ to apply. Candidates who join us through Koch Internship Program will be paid directly by CKI and will participate in CKI programming in conjunction with joining our ELP onsite at The Acton Institute residence in Grand Rapids, MI.
If I am not accepted into the program, are there other opportunities at the Acton Institute?
Yes. While this program is highly competitive, we do offer opportunities to top candidates to whom we are not able to extend offers. In fact, in the application, you can select whether you would like to be considered for a Collegiate Fellowship to attend Acton University.
Please contact [email protected] if you have any further question.