This seven-month journey is made possible by generous donors who believe in your leadership. While the true cost is $5,000 per participant, your investment is just $2,100.
Why? Because our donors believe in you. They know that when people like you step up to lead, our communities grow stronger.
Your $2,100 program fee covers only a portion of the total cost and helps support essentials like world-class media training, cutting-edge learning tools, expert guest speakers, and personalized mentorship. The rest is funded by those who are invested in your potential.
This isn’t just a program — it’s an investment in yourself and the future of public leadership.
If you have any questions about the cost of the program or financial aid, please reach out to lbjwcs@austin.utexas.edu.
Is there Financial Aid available for Out-of-State Applicants?
If you are joining us from out of state, we offer financial aid based on both need and merit. A limited number of partial tuition scholarships are available. We provide fundraising resources for all admitted cohort members to create a plan to fundraise not just their tuition, but their hotel and travel costs as well.
How do I fundraise for my tuition costs?
We encourage and provide resources for all admitted change-makers to fundraise for their tuition and travel — consider this your first step into the world of political fundraising! Fundraising is a critical campaign skill, and this hands-on experience not only provides valuable practice but also helps build early relationships with future campaign donors. Many past participants found that the supporters they engaged during their LBJWCS fundraisers later became key contributors when they launched their own campaigns.
All newly admitted cohort members will be invited to attend a workshop with fundraising expert and LBJWCS Advisory Council member Nancy Bocskor, to discuss the fundamentals of fundraising and where to get started. We will also help you create a GoFundMe page, amplify your campaign to our supporters, and provide additional resources to help you reach your fundraising goal.
Can I help defray the cost for others?
Yes! If you would like to help defray our tuition costs for our participants and support change-makers in politics, please make a tax-deductible donation. Thank you for your support!
When will I find out if I received financial aid?
If you apply for financial aid, you will receive notification of financial assistance either in your admissions letter or shortly after you are accepted into the program depending on the type of award.
Full Funding Reimbursement Awards for Texas Residents
Thanks to the generous support of the Center for Women in Government (CWG) at the Jane Nelson Institute for Women's Leadership at Texas Woman's University, a limited number of full funding reimbursement awards are available to eligible Texas residents. These awards cover the entire program fee (not including the credit card processing fee) on a reimbursement basis.
The CWG support helps ensure that aspiring leaders from all socioeconomic backgrounds can participate in the LBJ Women's Campaign School, breaking down financial barriers for women in public life.
How to Apply
Applications for the CWG Full Funding Reimbursement Award open alongside the application for the 2027 Class (Cohort 8). To be considered, you must submit two separate applications:
- One to the LBJ Women's Campaign School to join the program
- One to the CWG to be considered for the full funding reimbursement award
The full funding reimbursement awards are limited and priority will be given to eligible applicants who submit their materials early and completely. Visit the Jane Nelson Institute for Women's Leadership's Center for Women in Government website for the application link and further details including the reimbursement funding application deadline.
Because this award comes from a state funded school, any funds given must be reimbursed should you drop out of the program at any time.