HOBY Leadership Seminar
Program · Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership · Your state
Leadership seminar for sophomores, one nominee per high school, with a service commitment after.
Our take
The nomination is the honor; the seminar is short. Follow through on the 100 service hours it asks for and it becomes worth listing.
“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
- Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership
- Type
- Program
- Format
- In person, Your state
- When
- Summer, 3–4 days
- Who can apply
- 10th grade
- How hard to get in
- Competitive
- Cost
- Under $1k, with financial aid or fee waivers
- Deadline
- Your school nominates one sophomore, usually in the fall.
- Subjects
- Leadership, Service
Dates, costs and rules change every year. Check the official site before you apply. Last checked October 18, 2026.
Questions
Is HOBY Leadership Seminar worth it?
The nomination is the honor; the seminar is short. Follow through on the 100 service hours it asks for and it becomes worth listing. On how much it helps a college application, we rate it solid.
How much does HOBY Leadership Seminar cost?
It costs under $1,000. Financial aid or fee waivers are available. Check the official site for this year’s price.
When is the HOBY Leadership Seminar deadline?
Your school nominates one sophomore, usually in the fall. Exact dates change every year, so confirm on the official site.
Who can apply to HOBY Leadership Seminar?
Students in 10th grade. 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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