Rising Leaders Program
Frequently asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an age limit?
This program is geared toward applicants who are within approximately the first five to ten years of their career.
I am not based in the DC area. Should I apply?
Yes. We strongly encourage applicants living outside of the DC area to apply for the program. We will provide transportation and accommodation for all in-person events. All other regular meetings and workshops will be held virtually.
Do I have to be a U.S.-based citizen or permanent resident to be considered for the program?
Yes. Members of the class are REQUIRED to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (green-card holder).
Are full-time employees, including journalists, active-duty military, and government employees eligible to apply to this program?
Yes, you must be currently employed full-time at the time of application and for the duration for the program.
If my employer (including U.S. government department, Congress, etc.) requires additional approval for my participation, what is the process?
Please be aware that any approval requirements from your employer will be your responsibility. We recommend you secure your direct supervisors’ approval before submitting your application. If you are accepted to the program, the Aspen Institute’s legal team is available to provide additional information and/or respond to questions your employer or related government office (OGE, Ethics Committee) may have regarding the program.
Is there a fee to participate?
No. If you are chosen to be a member of the ASG Rising Leaders Program, there is no fee required to participate.
Is in-person attendance mandatory?
All successful applicants must be able to attend the kick-off event in Washington, DC (March 18-20, 2026), the Aspen Security Forum, in Aspen, CO (July 14-17, 2026), and Rising Leaders programming in Washington, DC (December 2026).
I see that publishing a policy paper is a part of the program requirements. Should I apply if I am not able to publish due to the restrictions of my current position?
We have had previous Rising Leaders in similar situations and are happy to work with you on a case-by-case basis to offer flexible arrangements to meet the policy paper requirement.
Are students able to apply?
If you are a full or part time student, please wait to apply until you have completed your studies.
I anticipate returning to school, changing my job, relocating to a new city, or another major life change in the next year. Should I apply?
This program is best experienced by those in a settled position who can fully commit their time and focus to the cohort. We would encourage you to apply in the future once you are in a settled role.
Are former Aspen Security Forum Scholars or participants in other Aspen-affiliated programs able to apply?
Yes.
What if I applied to the Rising Leaders Program last year?
Those who applied previously are eligible to reapply.