Program Eligibility
Eligibility for the Reagan Leadership Program
Students are eligible to apply for the Reagan Leadership Program at Eureka College if they meet the four criteria listed below.
Graduation timeline
Students are eligible to apply for the Reagan Leadership Program if they are a current high school senior planning to graduate in spring 2026.
High school GPA
Students are eligible to apply for the Reagan Leadership Program if they have earned at least a 3.30 cumulative high school GPA (weighted) at the time of application.
College plans
Students are eligible to apply for the Reagan Leadership Program if they are planning on completing a four-year college degree.
College timeline
Students are eligible to apply for the Reagan Leadership Program if they are planning on enrolling in university beginning with the Fall 2026 semester.
Frequently Asked Questions
We recognize that you may have questions about eligibility requirements, the application process, and other aspects of the Reagan Leadership Program. Please review the FAQs below. If your question is not addressed, please do not hesitate to reach out to the RLP Director at rlp@eureka.edu.
What does the Reagan Leadership Program offer selected students?
All students selected for the Reagan Leadership Program receive a full four-year tuition scholarship to Eureka College. Reagan Fellows also receive personalized leadership training, including a fully funded mentorship experience in their fields of study. Selected students also travel abroad during their first- or second-year in the program.
How many Reagan Fellows are selected each year?
The Reagan Leadership Program plans to select four applicants as the next cohort of Reagan Fellows.
What is needed to apply?
The application process for the Reagan Leadership Program is very easy. Please review this complete breakdown for more information.
When will I hear if I have been selected as a finalist and/or as a Reagan Fellow?
We strive to let students know about their progression through the selection process in as timely a manner as possible. Please review this complete timeline for more information.
What kind of leadership experience are you looking for?
All of us here at the Reagan Leadership Program consider leadership to be a broad term. Leadership is both formal and informal. It involves elected and selected positions, such as student government and team captains. It also involves more organic and unexpected actions, behaviors, and practices. Leaders are found in various contexts—in classrooms, on athletic teams, in workplaces, in religious institutions, online, and in the home. We are confident that you have been a leader and we’re looking forward to learning about your experiences!
I don’t think I’ve really been a leader. I probably shouldn’t apply, right?
Leadership is something that nearly all of us have taken on, whether we know it or not! We bet that you’ve got more leadership experience than you’re giving yourself credit for. Think about the times when you’ve helped others. Reflect on the moments when you solved problems. Consider those situations in which you made a difference. These are all examples of leadership. We hope that you reflect on your leadership and apply! You’ve got a lot to offer and we’re eager to learn more about your experiences!
Can Reagan Fellows also compete as student athletes or take on other extracurricular programs?
Yes! Many of our students are actively competing as members of Eureka College’s athletic teams and/or participating on campus as members of numerous campus organizations.
Can I apply for the RLP if I have completed dual credit, AP, and/or IB courses as part of my high school curriculum?
Yes! We are happy to accept applications from graduating high school seniors who have completed dual credit, AP, and/or IB coursework, though this is not a requirement.
Can I apply for the RLP as a transfer student?
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept applications for the Reagan Leadership Program from transfer students. However, we strongly encourage you to apply as a transfer student to Eureka College. You can do so here.
Do applicants need to have U.S. citizenship?
No. We welcome applications from all eligible students, regardless of citizenship status.
I don’t have a 4.0 GPA. Will I be considered?
We treat each application to the Reagan Leadership Program holistically. This includes GPA, but only as one of many different criteria. All applicants who have above a 3.30 cumulative high school GPA will be considered. We look forward to your application!
I’m not graduating until Spring 2027. Can I apply now?
Unfortunately, we are currently only accepting applications from high school seniors who are graduating in Spring 2026 and planning to enroll in university for the Fall 2026 semester. However, we are planning on holding scholarship competitions in Fall 2026 for the Fall 2027 incoming cohort of Reagan Fellows. We encourage you to keep an eye out and apply during your senior year!
Will I be fully considered if I compete virtually?
Yes! All students who compete virtually will be considered fully for the Reagan Leadership Program.