Application Process

Applications for 2026 will open in September

The KIETS Climate Leaders Program network of Scholars will be comprised of committed, emerging, innovative leaders focused on finding solutions to mitigating or reversing the negative effects of climate change.

Program Components

• Funding provided for Scholars and their faculty mentors
  • $5,000 faculty stipend
  • $1,000 student stipend
  • Up to $12,000 internship support funds for students
• One year program (January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025)
• Internship (three to six months)
• Climate Leadership Academy (May 4-7, 2025)
• Climate Leadership Symposium (Fall, 2025)

Eligibility

Candidates for the 2025 cohort must be full-time undergraduate or graduate students at NC State who will not graduate prior to Spring 2026. We are seeking Scholars that have a record of strong academic performance, and a willingness to take leadership positions that give them opportunities to communicate and engage individuals, as well as local and global communities, on climate change issues and solutions.

Nomination/Application Process

Candidates must be nominated by a faculty or professional staff member at NC State who is willing to mentor the candidate and work with the candidate to identify an internship experience.

Each application will include three parts:

1. Scholar Application Form (Closed until September 2025))
2. Candidate’s Resume (uploaded on the Scholar Application Form)
3. Faculty Nomination Form (Closed until September 2025)

Applications for the 2026 cohort will open in September 2025.

Selection Process

Each application will undergo internal review by a selection committee (organized by KIETS). Highly ranked applications will demonstrate:

• Candidate’s strong academic performance
• Candidate’s preparedness for an internship in a professional setting
• Candidate’s leadership experience and potential (e.g., participation in school and community activities, specific goals for future involvement especially in leadership roles)
• Candidate’s commitment to seeking climate change solutions
• Clear visions for internship goals and potential opportunities
• Strong faculty mentor support for the candidate
• Candidate’s commitment to total engagement in the program

Program finalists will meet with members of the Selection Committee before final decisions are made.

Further Information

You can find more information about the program in the KIETS Climate Leaders Program Guidelines.

You can also read more about the 2025 Prearranged Internships that you can apply for as part of the program.