2025 Red Hat Shelton Challenge | Important Information
Important Application Dates & Deadlines
December 1
Application Opens
February 15
Priority Application Deadline
April 15
Registration Deadline
Please note, students who apply 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
Cost of attending: $900
The cost of attendance 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.
Apply for 2025
Upcoming Virtual Info Session
January 15th, 2025 @ 6:30 p.m. EST
Have questions about the 2025 Shelton Challenge? Our staff team is hosting a virtual info session to share more information. Prospective students and their families are invited to attend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Click on each question below to view more information.
+ What do I need to apply?
- In order to submit, 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 applicants will only need one (1) letter)
- Required ONLY if requesting financial assistance: A brief description of any circumstances surrounding the request
- The contact information associated with your account will be used in all communications related to the program, including admission communications during the spring and program details during the summer. Before submitting your application, please verify and update the details of your account. Be sure to use an email address that you will be able to access over the summer. Please visit the REPORTER support page for a step by step guide on how to update your user information.
+ What if the writer of my Letter of Recommendation cannot provide me a copy?
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:
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.
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.
All application materials must be received by the February 15, 2025 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.
+ Can I submit the application for my child?
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.
+ 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 if I can no longer attend the week I am admitted?
Once your preferences are submitted, it’s essential that you protect these weeks on your calendar until you receive your admissions decision.To help ensure that your selected dates align with your family’s plans and commitments, we strongly encourage discussing your availability with parents, guardians, and any other involved family members before submitting the application. Due to high interest and limited spots in each camp, week transfers cannot be guaranteed.
+ I loved my experience! Can I come back for a second year?
The Challenge is a one-time experience. However, if you’ve successfully completed the Shelton Challenge and seek ongoing leadership development, we have compelling opportunities to support your advancement. Check out our Peer Leader experience.
+ 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 are Peer Leaders?
Peer Leaders (PL) are recent Red Hat Shelton Challenge graduates who serve as a crucial link between team leaders and Coach/Mentor/Trainers (CMTs), ensuring a positive team dynamic. Their responsibilities include leading daily icebreakers and morning ceremonies, serving as a liaison between the team and CMT, and working to establish team expectations and provide guidance. As a result of serving as a PL, you will:
- Receive housing and meals during your stay at camp.
- Have the opportunity to continue to deepen your own leadership.
- Build skills, such as the ability to work on diverse teams, communication, and facilitation.
- Contribute to a transformative experience that impacts your local and state communities.