Apply to U-LEAD

Student Well-Being #1 Purpose

The LEAD Scholars Academy provides students with various opportunities to learn more about themselves and develop new leadership skills. The U-LEAD programs are single-semester programs designed for upperclassmen and transfer students with 60+ credits, a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA, and an interest in service and leadership.

Click here to Apply to U-LEAD!

Program Benefits:

  • Access to LEAD Lounge for studying, networking and professional development
  • $200 fellowship every semester you remain in good standing
  • Priority class registration (following semester)
  • Recognition as a LEAD Scholars Academy Graduate at commencement with the completion of at least 4 semesters of U-LEAD Programs.
**Unfortunately DACA, TSA or Political Asylum applicant students (or other students who are not eligible for financial aid) are ineligible to receive LEAD foundation scholarships**

U-LEAD Program Options

The Civic Engagement Scholars Program is for students looking to increase their community involvement. Students will connect with nonprofit agencies, explore post-collegiate civic opportunities, and pursue their passions through civic engagement. This program is open to all students, regardless of identity affiliation.

The Global Leadership Program is for those students with a strong interest in international and global issues. Students will complete internationally-focused service opportunities. This program challenges students to become more globally-minded citizens and leaders. This program is open to all students, regardless of identity affiliation.

The Leadership Laboratory Program is intended for students who have a strong interest in developing their leadership style on a more advanced level as they participate in student or professional organizations. Participants will learn what it means to be an effective leader who can make a difference with other leaders and followers in their communities through social change and community engagement. This program is open to all students, regardless of identity affiliation.

U-LEAD Course Options

LDR 2262 – Focused Volunteer Community Service

  • 1 credit hour
  • Online discussion-based course
  • Complete 20 hours of service in a community agency
  • Participate in two LEAD Impact events

LDR 3905 – Independent Study

  • 0 or 1 credit hours **
  • Complete 15 hours of service in an appropriate service agency
  • Participate in two LEAD Impact events
  • Required attendance at biweekly group seminar meetings
  • Independent research project in program focus area
  • Plan to attend Social Change Showcase (Fall and Spring Only)
    *Must be available for at least a portion of the event.
    **Courses in the Leadership Laboratory Program may be zero or one credit hour and may have slightly different requirements.

Application Process

All U-LEAD students (new and returning) must reapply to the U-LEAD program each semester. The application will ask you to upload a copy of your resume, respond to questions about why you are interested in U-LEAD, and you are able to rank the U-LEAD programs by order of preference.

Please note that U-LEAD course offerings vary each semester due to instructor availability.

Once your application has been submitted, you will receive and e-mail regarding your application status and selected program, if applicable.

Click here to Apply to U-LEAD! 

Applications for Spring 2024 will be open from October 16, 2023 until January 11, 2023.

Please direct application-related inquiries to ulead@ucf.edu.