• 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.

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 ([email protected]) 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, 2026 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 [email protected].

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.

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.

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.

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.