COLUMBUS — Mississippi high school students with a passion for learning, leadership, creativity and discovery can now apply for the 2027 Mississippi Governor’s School, a tuition-free residential honors program that will bring talented students from across the state to Mississippi University for Women’s campus next summer.

Applications for the 2027 MGS are now open and will be accepted through Nov. 1 at 11:59 p.m. The two-week program will take place June 6-19, 2027, on The W’s campus.

MGS is open to Mississippi residents who are currently completing 10th or 11th grade and have not previously attended MGS. Eligible students must demonstrate academic qualification and advanced ability in one area, including academic aptitude, creative thinking, leadership or fine and performing arts.

“MGS is about so much more than being a high-achieving student,” said Mackenzie Pearce, MGS coordinator. “We want students to come here curious, excited and ready to challenge themselves. They will spend two weeks surrounded by peers who are just as motivated and interested in learning as they are, and that experience can change the way they see themselves, their communities and their futures.”

During the two-week residential experience, scholars will live and learn together through challenging academic courses, leadership experiences, service projects, team-building activities and enrichment opportunities. Students will also earn three hours of honors college credit through The W.

Tuition, room, meals and program activities are provided at no cost to selected scholars. Students are responsible for transportation to and from MGS and personal dorm supplies.

“MGS represents an investment in Mississippi’s future,” said Penny Mansell, director of the Center for Education Support at The W. “For more than four decades, this program has brought together some of our state’s brightest young people and allowed them to learn from one another, explore their interests and imagine what they can contribute to Mississippi. We want students from every corner of our state to know that MGS is an opportunity for them.”

The application includes a résumé, two recommendation letters, documentation supporting eligibility and advanced ability and a response to a 2027 scholar prompt. The MGS application process is competitive, and students are encouraged to begin gathering application materials well before the deadline.

“We know that exceptional students live in every community across Mississippi, and we do not want a student to miss this opportunity simply because they are unsure whether they qualify or how to complete the application,” Pearce said. “If students or families have questions, we want them to reach out.”

Students interested in applying for Mississippi Governor’s School can find the application, eligibility requirements and additional information at www.muw.edu/education/govschool.