Eligibility Requirements

Interested applicants must meet the following criteria in order to apply:

  • Sophomore or junior who resides or attends high school in Jefferson County
  • Maintains at least a “B” average
  • Demonstrates leadership qualities, and/or potential for leadership
  • Possesses the ability to question and work with others
  • Expresses an interest in furthering their knowledge of the greater Birmingham area
  • Commits to 100% attendance at all sessions

2024-2025 Application Process

Step One: Calendar Check!

Please carefully review the PROGRAM CALENDAR. You must be able to commit to 100% participation.

NOTE: All superintendents and principals excuse absences for YLB.

View Calendar

Step Two: Nominations

To receive an application, student must be nominated by someone who knows them well. Nominations close on Sunday, August 25th, 2024 at 11:59 PM.

Nomination Form

Step Three: Application and References

YLB candidates must submit an application and have two references submitted. A link to the online application and online reference form will be emailed to each nominated candidate on August 26th, 2024, and they are also available via the links above.

Application References

Step Four: Deadline!

Candidates will have until Friday, September 13, 2024 at 11:59 PM to complete the application and collect two references. Late applications will not be accepted.

Step 5: Finalist Interviews

All applications will be reviewed by a selection committee who will choose a group of Finalists to be interviewed. For applicants selected for an interview, they will take place on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, from 4-7 PM.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This is the only day interviews take place. Unfortunately, we cannot offer make-up interviews.

Step Six: Class Selected

After interviewing Finalists, the selection committee chooses a class of approximately 40 participants. Because the program is limited in size, many qualified applicants are not accepted. Students not accepted in their sophomore year are encouraged to re-apply in their junior year.