DC Summer Policy Institute Quick Facts
2 weeks
July 6–17, 9:00am–5:00pm
2 college credit hours
Choose between two courses for college credit:
U.S. Health Care Markets and Policy;
Democracy Policy in the World
Cornell in Washington’s Wolpe Building
22nd and O St. in Washington D.C.
About the Brooks School
The Cornell Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy was launched in 2021 to harness the university’s wide-ranging expertise in public policy teaching, research, and engagement. It brings together scholars across disciplines to tackle the biggest public policy challenges we face as a society, both in the U.S. and globally. The school is oriented toward developing policy solutions that improve people’s lives.
Application Details
Applicants must:
- Be 15–19 years old and have completed their sophomore year of high school by the program start date (July 6, 2026).
- Reside in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area for commuting.
- If a student lives outside of the DC Metropolitan Area and is interested in participating in the program, the following requirements must be met:
- For students under 18 years old:
Students may attend if their parent(s)/guardian(s) attest that temporary housing and a supervising adult will be arranged for all times the student is not on campus. - For students 18 or 19 years old:
Students may attend and are responsible for managing their own housing arrangements.
- For students under 18 years old:
- If a student lives outside of the DC Metropolitan Area and is interested in participating in the program, the following requirements must be met:
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Demonstrate academic readiness and personal maturity.
How to Apply:
The following materials will be required to apply to the program:
- Completed Cornell Brooks DC Summer Policy Institute application
- Resume (including achievements, extracurriculars, or prior pre-college coursework)
- School transcript(s)
- One letter of recommendation (principal, counselor, advisor, mentor, or teacher)
- A 500-word essay answering the writing prompt: Tell us about your background, interests, and how participating in the Cornell Summer Policy Institute would advance your goals.
The application link will be available on January 22, 2026.
For questions or additional information, please email us at brookssummer@cornell.edu
Program Cost
- Participants who apply by April 30, 2026, will benefit from a discounted program tuition and fees of $5,300.
- Starting May 1, 2026, program tuition and fees will total $5,800.
- A non-refundable $500 deposit is due to secure a spot.
Have Questions?
Cornell Brooks School
Cornell in Washington
DC Summer Policy Institute
Contact Email
brookssummer@cornell.edu