Program Eligibility
Eligibility for the Disciples Leadership Program
Students are eligible to apply for the Disciples Leadership Program at Eureka College if they meet the four criteria listed below. Eligible students who compete for the DLP scholarship are automatically qualified for the Reagan Leadership Scholarship Competition at Eureka College, which is held at the same time as the competition for the DLP. Information on the Reagan Leadership Program Scholarship at Eureka College can be found here.
Graduation timeline
Students are eligible to apply for the Disciples Leadership Program if they are a current high school senior planning to graduate in spring 2026. In exceptional circumstances, transfer students may be eligible to compete. Please email for more information.
High school GPA
Students are eligible to apply for the Disciples Leadership Program if they have earned at least a 3.30 cumulative high school GPA at the time of application.
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Membership
Students are eligible to apply for the Disciples Leadership Program if they are members of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
Pursue at Least a Minor in Philosophy and Religion
Students may choose any major areas of study, but must complete at least a minor in Philosophy and Religion during their studies at Eureka College.
Frequently Asked Questions
We recognize that you may have questions about eligibility requirements, the application process, and other aspects of the Disciples Leadership Program. Please review the FAQs below. If your question is not addressed, please do not hesitate to reach out to the DLP Director at dlp@eureka.edu.
What does the Disciples Leadership Program offer selected students?
All students selected for the Disciples Leadership Program receive a up to four-years of tuition to Eureka College. DLP Fellows also receive leadership training, space for faithful reflection in community, and a fully funded mentorship experience in their fields of study. Selected students also travel abroad during their first- or second-year in the program.
How many Disciples Fellows are selected each year?
The Disciples Leadership Program plans to select 1 to 2 applicants as upcoming Fellows.
What is needed to apply?
The application process for the Disciples Leadership Program is very easy. Please review this complete breakdown for more information.
When will I hear if I have been selected as a finalist and/or as a Disciples Fellow?
We strive to let students know about their progression through the selection process in as timely a manner as possible. Please review this complete timeline for more information.
What kind of leadership and faith experience are you looking for?
The Disciples Leadership Program considers leadership to be a broad term and faith a winding road. Leaders are found in various contexts—in classrooms, churches, on athletic teams, in workplaces, online, and in the home. Faith isn’t about having the right answers, it’s pursuing meaningful questions. We are confident that you have been a leader and we’re looking forward to learning how your experiences intersect your journey of faith.
Can Disciples Fellows also compete as student athletes or take on other extracurricular programs?
Yes! Many of our students are actively competing as members of Eureka College’s athletic teams and/or participating on campus as members of numerous campus organizations.
Can I apply for the DLP if I have completed dual credit, AP, and/or IB courses as part of my high school curriculum?
Yes! We are happy to accept applications from graduating high school seniors who have completed dual credit, AP, and/or IB coursework, though this is not a requirement. We also receive applications from transfer college students.
Can I apply for the DLP as a transfer student?
Yes, we consider applications from transfer students. Please email the DLP Director for more information.
Do applicants need to have U.S. citizenship?
No. We welcome applications from all eligible Disciples students, regardless of citizenship status.
I don’t have a 4.0 GPA. Will I be considered?
We treat each application to the Disciples Leadership Program holistically. This includes GPA, but only as one of many different criteria. All applicants who have above a 3.30 cumulative high school GPA will be considered. We look forward to your application!
I’m not graduating until Spring 2027. Can I apply now?
Unfortunately, we are currently only accepting applications from high school seniors who are graduating in Spring 2026 and planning to enroll in university for the Fall 2026 semester. However, we are planning on holding scholarship competitions in Fall 2026 for the Fall 2027 incoming Disciples Fellows. We encourage you to keep an eye out and apply during your senior year!
Will I be fully considered if I compete virtually?
Yes! All students who compete virtually will be considered fully for the Disciples Leadership Program.