Governor Scholars Program
The Kentucky Governor’s Scholars Program (GSP) is a highly selective, five-week summer residential program for outstanding high school juniors across the Commonwealth. Established in 1983, GSP is designed to promote academic excellence, leadership, and personal growth among Kentucky’s next generation of civic and economic leaders. [gsp.ky.gov],
Students selected for GSP spend part of their summer living on a college campus, where they engage in a rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum rooted in the liberal arts and sciences. The program combines classroom instruction, seminars, and co-curricular experiences with a full residential life component, giving participants an early glimpse into the college experience.
Program Highlights
- Five-week, on-campus experience at participating Kentucky colleges and universities
- Challenging academic coursework paired with seminars, discussions, and creative exploration
- No grades or credits, allowing students to focus on learning, collaboration, and intellectual curiosity
- Diverse peer community representing all regions of Kentucky
- Enrichment activities including guest speakers, performances, field trips, and student-led initiatives
Eligibility & Application
GSP applicants must:
- Be a current high school junior (11th grade) in Kentucky
- Be a resident of Kentucky
- Have completed a standardized test (ACT, PSAT, or SAT)
- Be nominated through their school and complete a competitive application process
Selection is highly competitive and considers academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, leadership, service, and personal character.
Cost & Benefits
Accepted students attend GSP at no cost, making it one of the most prestigious and accessible academic enrichment opportunities in the state.
Graduates of the program often qualify for significant college scholarship opportunities at many Kentucky colleges and universities.
Learn More
For complete program details, application materials, and deadlines, visit the official website:
