Youth Leadership Institute
Hispanic Scholarship Fund
About
The Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) is a college empowerment program designed to support high-achieving Latino high school juniors. Its primary mission is to provide students with the practical tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the college application process, access scholarships, and prepare for academic and career success. Participants engage in a rigorous curriculum that includes both a virtual component and a five-day residential experience at a top-tier university campus. Core activities feature college and career workshops, interaction with professional mentors, and networking opportunities with fellow student leaders. The program is unique because it is entirely free, covering all costs including housing, meals, and airfare for students in need of transportation assistance. By living in college dorms and participating in high-level workshops, students build the confidence and professional network required to excel in higher education.
Application Requirements
Timeline
Application Window
Jan 1, 2026
Application Window
Feb 15, 2026
Notification of Admission Status
Mar 1, 2026
Code of Conduct Acceptance & Orientation
Apr 22, 2026 – Apr 22, 2026
Virtual YLI Component
May 2, 2026 – May 3, 2026
In-Person Component - Session #1 (Loyola Marymount University)
Jun 24, 2026 – Jun 28, 2026
In-Person Component - Session #2 (University of Southern California)
Jul 15, 2026 – Jul 19, 2026