Apply to U-LEAD
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 four (4) U-LEAD courses.
**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 Latinx Leadership Program explores the notion of social change and to challenge students to see themselves as agents of that change. Students will develop their understanding of Latinx leadership through Juana Bordas’ book “The Power of Latino Leadership”, while also learning more about identity, history, and current issues within the Latinx community. 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 U-LEAD Poster 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 Summer 2024 will be open until June 14, 2024. Please email ulead@ucf.edu if you need to apply for the Summer B course after June 14th.
Applications for Fall 2024 will be open from June 15, 2024-August 22, 2024.
Please direct application related inquiries to ulead@ucf.edu.