Frequently Asked Questions

Meridian is a nonpartisan center for diplomacy founded in 1960 and headquartered on a historic campus in Washington, D.C. Our mission is to empower leaders to advance the next era of diplomacy. Our programs strengthen American leadership by accelerating collaboration on shared challenges, increasing economic competitiveness, and building geopolitical resilience. We equip leaders from government, business, science and technology, cities and states, culture and sports with the insights, networks, and resources to navigate a complex world. 

We welcome all rising 11th and 12th grade students who are curious about international issues and have demonstrated academic excellence. 

We welcome international students, but do not sponsor visas. 

Applications will go live on October 1, 2025. Sign up here to be notified. 

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and will close once the cohort is filled. 

The last day to apply is on March 15, 2026.

Before January 15: $3,000; After January 15: $3,500 

Tuition covers lunch each day for the one-week program, plus course materials, academic expenses, trips, tours, activities, and off-campus event transportation. Travel costs to and from Meridian each day are not included, and students are individually responsible for expenses such as spending money for all other meals, transportation outside of program hours, etc.