Freedom and Citizenship
Program · Columbia University Center for American Studies · New York, NY
Political philosophy seminar plus a year of college guidance for rising seniors.
Our take
Free, taught by Columbia faculty, followed by a year-long civic project. For low-income students near New York.
“Helps an application” is our read on how much an admissions reader is likely to weigh it: Strong means getting in or placing is a real achievement, Solid means it shows real interest and effort, and Light usually means most students who apply and pay can attend. It’s our opinion, not a ranking from any college, and a light one can still be a great summer.
The details
- Run by
- Columbia University Center for American Studies
- Type
- Program
- Format
- Residential, New York, NY
- When
- Summer, 3 weeks + school-year project
- Who can apply
- 11th grade, residents of NY, NJ only
- How hard to get in
- Competitive
- Cost
- Free
- Deadline
- Usually closes in March.
- Subjects
- Humanities, Law / Policy, Leadership
Dates, costs and rules change every year. Check the official site before you apply. Last checked October 18, 2026.
Questions
Is Freedom and Citizenship worth it?
Free, taught by Columbia faculty, followed by a year-long civic project. For low-income students near New York. On how much it helps a college application, we rate it strong.
How much does Freedom and Citizenship cost?
It’s free, or it pays you. Check the official site for this year’s price.
When is the Freedom and Citizenship deadline?
Usually closes in March. Exact dates change every year, so confirm on the official site.
Who can apply to Freedom and Citizenship?
Students in 11th grade, and only residents of NY, NJ. It is competitive.
Want a list picked for you?
Clarity Prep members get opportunities matched to their grade, interests and state in the app, plus a mentor who helps them decide what’s worth applying to and checks in every week until the applications are in.
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