Click Here for the VLI 2026 Application
The Snelling Center for Government invites members of the public, nonprofit and private sectors to apply for admission to the Vermont Leadership Institute.
The application process is highly competitive, with up to twenty-six associates selected on the basis of their professional achievements, demonstrated interest in the community, and potential for leadership.
Desired Applicant Qualities:
- Committed to Vermont
- Curious about the issues facing Vermont
- Committed to learning and growing
- Values inquiry and dialogue
The Snelling Center is a non-partisan organization. As such, we encourage applicants from a variety of perspectives, and we welcome ideological diversity.
The VLI Class of 2026 will begin its training in September of 2025. Most session days take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with at least one overnight per session. Each session requires some advance preparation and some follow-up. Because of the interactive and interconnected nature of their time together, VLI Associates are expected to make a full-time commitment to the program and to their own learning and development.
Tentative 2025-2026 Session Dates:
- Thursday and Friday, September 25 & 26, 2025
- Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday, October 22, 23, & 24, 2025
- Thursday and Friday, December 4 & 5, 2025
- Thursday and Friday, January 8 & 9, 2026
- Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, February 2, 3, & 4, 2026
- Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, March 18, 19, & 20, 2026
- Thursday and Friday, April 23 & 24, 2026
- Friday and Saturday, May 29 & 30, 2026
*Please note this is a tentative schedule. Locations will be updated prior to Session 1 and as the program progresses.
The VLI 2026 Application Process:
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- Submit an application by Sunday, May 4, 2025.
- Include a nonrefundable $25 application fee.
- Submit two letters of recommendation (emailed to tasha@snellingcenter.org).
- Participate in a remote alumni interview.
- Confirm your participation in July.
- Submit an application by Sunday, May 4, 2025.
The following interview also provides a more in-depth overview of the program’s history, philosophy, curriculum and more.
Tuition
Tuition for the 2025 – 2026 year is $9,750 for double occupancy, and $10,750 for single occupancy, which includes food and lodging.
Information about Financial Aid: Avenues for tuition assistance