2024 Red Hat Shelton Challenge | Important Information

Important Application Dates & Deadlines

Apply For the Waitlist

December 1, 2023

Application Opens

February 15

Priority Application Deadline

April 15, 2024

Registration Deadline

Spots for the 2024 Shelton Challenge are currently full! We are still accepting applications for our waitlist.

Please note, students who applied by the priority deadline of February 15 will receive notification of their admission status by March 1. Applications received after the priority deadline of February 15 will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all sessions are full. Once sessions are full, students will be placed on a waitlist.

Once admitted into the program, students will receive registration information to reserve their spot. Registration is due by April 15.

Shelton Challenge Eligibility

To participate in the Red Hat Shelton Challenge, applicants:

  • Must be a rising 10th – 12th grader.
  • Cannot have participated in the Shelton Challenge previously. 
  • Are emerging leaders with a commitment to learning and self-improvement. 

Questions regarding eligibility? Please reach out to us at sheltonchallenge@ncsu.edu.

Cost of Attendance

$800 per student.

This fee includes the student’s lodging, meals, activities, instruction, and learning materials for the week.

Financial Support

Full and scholarships to the program are available. Students are able to indicate in their Challenge application if the student’s attendance is dependent upon receiving financial assistance. Students will be able to apply for financial support within their Shelton Challenge application.

Application Process and Important Dates

In order to submit an application for the Shelton Challenge, you will need the provide the following:

  • Name and other pertinent information about the applicant
  • Current unweighted GPA 
  • Availability and preference for programs with multiple offerings
  • Essay question responses
  • Two (2) letters of recommendation saved as a .pdf file and the recommender’s contact information (NOTE: Peer Leaders and Take 2 applicants will only need one (1) letter)
  • Required ONLY if requesting financial assistance: A brief description of any circumstances surrounding the request

High school students are encouraged to independently complete their applications. While proofreading or occasional assistance from others is permitted, students should demonstrate their commitment to leadership by maintaining active ownership of the process. 

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Submitting A Letter of Recommendation

We have received some feedback about high school policies regarding the letters of recommendation. We still encourage you to obtain a copy of your letter of recommendation and upload it with your application. However, if for any reason the individual providing your letter of recommendation would prefer to deliver it directly to Challenge staff, we will take a copy of the document via email. 

If your recommender will be submitting your letter separately, please follow the steps below:

  1. Please provide them with this email address (sheltonchallenge@ncsu.edu) and ask that they use the subject line “Challenge Application: [Applicant’s First and Last Name] Letter of Recommendation” when sending. 
  2. You will still need to upload a .pdf note explaining that the letter was/will be emailed, as the application system will not let you proceed without an attachment uploaded. In your note, be sure to include the recommender’s name and email address so that we can easily pull your application materials. 
  3. All application materials must be received by the February 15, 2024 deadline to be considered during the priority review. Any applications with letters received past that date will be considered on a rolling basis.

If you have any questions regarding the application process, the program, or opportunities to participate, please reach out to us at sheltonchallenge@ncsu.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Click on each question below to view more information.

What happens if I am placed on a waitlist for the Shelton Challenge?

If you are placed on a waitlist, you will be notified in late Spring if a spot opens up. If you receive notification that a spot has opened up, you can register to attend.

Will I be able to contact my student while they are at the Challenge?

Yes. While we recommend allowing your student to immerse themselves in the experience, we understand that some circumstance may require you to be in contact with the student. Students are encouraged to put their phones away during class sessions. So an emergency number will be provided to all parents to contact Challenge administration should the parent need to contact their child immediately.

What is the difference between the Shelton Challenge and the Shelton Challenge: Take II?

The Shelton Challenge: Take II is for students who have previously completed the Shelton Challenge and are interested in continuing the leadership development journey.