Eligibility
- Capstone Leadership Academy is open to current 10th grade students in Alabama.
- CLA 2026 is scheduled for March 8-9, 2026 on the campus of The University of Alabama.
- The nomination link will close on October 24, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.
- The application link will close on November 1, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.
- Questions about CLA should be emailed to capstoneacademy@ua.edu or mgsnell@ua.edu
Application Information
In the application, you will be asked to submit the following information. We recommend preparing your information in Word or Google Docs prior to filling out the application.
- Personal information, including your and your parent/guardian’s contact information
- List up to five high school activities in which you have been most involved or that have had the greatest impact on you. This can include things like club, team, organization memberships and honors you have received. Please include how long you have been involved with these activities and any leadership positions that you held.
- List up to five community activities in which you have been most involved or that have had the greatest impact on you since you have been in high school. This can include things like volunteerism, jobs, and awards you have received outside of school. Please include how long you have been involved with these activities and any leadership positions that you held.
- In 250-500 words, describe a time when you positively led or influenced others at school or in your community.
Q&A for Applicants
May I apply if I have not received my school's nomination?
No. Only those who have been nominated by their school may apply.
Is there a fee to apply or participate?
No. Capstone Leadership Academy is free for participants. Meals, housing and activities throughout the program are included. Participants are responsible for transportation to and from campus at the beginning and end of the program.
I am not available to attend the entire session–I will need to come late or leave early. May I still apply?
No. You should not apply if you are not available to attend the entire session of Capstone Leadership Academy.
I would like to submit additional information about myself beyond the questions in the application. May I do so?
No. The only information that will be considered when evaluating applications is the information submitted in the official application.
What do I do if I have more questions about CLA?
We will host several virtual information sessions this fall to answer questions about CLA. Click HERE to sign up for one.
Q&A for High Schools
What should I look for in a nominee?
- 10th grade student in Alabama
- 2.75 or higher high school GPA
- Exemplary leadership qualities
- Able to miss 1 day of school
- Available March 8-9, 2026
How many students may I nominate?
Each high school may nominate up to three students. Each application will be reviewed independently of high school affiliation, so it is possible that 0, 1, 2, or all 3 nominees could be selected.
When should I submit my nominations?
Nominations should be entered by October 1, 2025. The nomination link will remain open after this date, although it is important to remember that students must submit their applications by November 1, 2025 at 11:59 pm. As soon as you nominate students, please share the application link above so they can submit their application. They should NOT wait for an email or further instructions from us to apply.
How do I submit a nomination?
Click the link below to enter your online nominations. Please enter all nominations at the same time. You can nominate up to 3 students that meet the criteria above.
What information will I have to provide in my nomination?
- Your name and contact information
- Nominee's name and contact information (Please include student's PERSONAL email address)
- Nominee's parent/guardian information
- Affirmation that the nominee has a 2.75 or higher high school GPA
- Affirmation that the nominee, in your opinion, will be able to miss one day of school to participate in the CLA program
Does nominating a student guarantee the student a place in the program?
No. Nominees must submit an application after they are nominated by their school. Applications must be submitted by November 1, 2025 at 11:59 pm. Participants are selected through a competitive application process. Applicants will be notified by December 1, 2025 if they have been selected.
Is there a fee to apply or participate?
No. Capstone Leadership Academy is free for participants. Meals, housing and activities throughout the program are included. Participants are responsible for transportation to and from campus at the beginning and end of the program.
What do I do if I have more questions about CLA?
We will host several virtual information sessions in the fall to answer questions about CLA. These will be announced soon. Feel free to email current questions to capstoneacademy@ua.edu or mgsnell@ua.edu