FAQ
frequently asked questions

How do I nominate my student?
As an educator, you may honor your most outstanding students by nominating them to attend the National Young Scholars Program (NYSP). We ask that you personally select only those students who can meet the challenge of our academic curriculum and who merit the distinction of a nomination. To nominate your students, click here. You may also complete and return the nomination certificate you received in the mail.

Who is the ideal NYSP nominee?
The National Young Scholars Program seeks outstanding 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students who have demonstrated academic achievement. These students are leaders in their classrooms, at home and in their communities. Despite their young age, these scholars exhibit maturity and independence and possess a broad range of interests and goals. As an educator, you know your students best, and we defer to your familiarity in selecting scholars who will benefit most from attending NYSP.

If I nominate a student, how can I be sure his or her information is safe?
NYSP protects, secures and never shares your nominees’ information. For over 25 years, we have been recognizing the highest-achieving students in the nation, and we maintain the strictest, most comprehensive privacy policy possible. Click here to view our privacy policy.

Who supervises the students?
The Program is supervised, directed and administered by a staff of faculty advisors with experience in education who have received extensive training on the developmental needs of elementary school scholars and the NYSP curriculum. The scholar relations team is highly trained to facilitate program logistics and assist scholars with their needs, ensuring a safe learning environment for all students. The scholar-to-staff ratio is strictly maintained at 8-to-1.

What does a typical lesson look like?
The National Young Scholars Program curriculum is designed to spark the imaginations of young scholars while emphasizing the importance of teamwork and leadership. Students take part in the Discovery Strand of their choice, gaining hands-on experience in their particular area of interest, and reinforce important interpersonal skills in the Leadership Strand. To see a sample lesson from a previous Discovery Strand, please click here.

Can special dietary needs be met?
Vegetarian options are always available and the availability of other special meal options are considered by request. All dietary needs and food allergies must be indicated on the scholar Medical Information & Authorization form provided in the acceptance materials. If necessary, a staff member will contact parents to discuss any special arrangements that need to be made for scholars. Vegetarian options are always available. The availability of other special meals, including kosher meals, should be verified prior to enrolling.

If my student is returning, does he/she get any special options? What will be different?
Students who are returning to NYSP have the distinguished role of an Eagle or Golden Eagle, the title of honor given to alumni. Eagles and Golden Eagles will be specially recognized at the Program and are even presented with an exclusive alumni gift!