Organization Policies
Applications are only accepted between February 2st, 2026 and 4:00PM on April 2st, 2026. Applications submitted outside of this time frame will not be processed.
In completing this application, you authorize the investigation of all statements contained in this application and any supporting documents.
The following are requirements to be considered as an applicant for the Shriners Hospitals for Children - Northern California Summer Youth Academy (SYA):
- Must be between 16-17 years old by June 1st, 2026
- Summer Youth Academy will be held June 21-26, 2026, from 9 am to 3 pm; Commit to attending the sessions every day during the week
- Provide up-to-date vaccination records, Tuberculosis testing (skin TB test ONLY, we do not accept blood tests) and other infectious disease testing.
- Provide a valid photo ID (i.e. driver's license, school ID, etc., not a copy)
- Compete a drug test
- Attend an interview with only one parent or guardian prior to beginning your volunteer position. This year, the interviews will be held Thursday, April 30, 2026 (Time: TBD after 5pm).
For instructions on your Personal Statement Essay follow this link.
Shriners Children’s also provides a Summer Youth Academy Writer's Workshop. The workshop will give the students and parent/guardian the opportunity to learn how to write an effective essay for applications to competitive medical programs, including this opportunity to apply to the SYA. The Writer's Workshop will be on Feb. 19th from 6 pm - 8 pm at Shriners Children's in Sacramento.
USE THIS LINK TO REGISTER FOR THE WORKSHOP
If you have changes or questions about your SYA application, please contact Volunteer Services at 916-453-2087. DO NOT COMPLETE A NEW APPLICATION.
