Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP)

SYEP Overview

This program is more than just a summer job; it’s a chance to earn while gaining exposure to a variety of industries, exploring potential career paths, and building a professional network. SYEP connects you with real-world experiences and like-minded peers in a supportive community where you can develop soft skills, make connections, and discover what inspires you. Whether you’re testing new fields or deepening your interests, this opportunity sets the stage for growth today and impact tomorrow.

Important Dates

Program Timeframe: Monday, June 22, 2026- Friday, July 31, 2026

Application Timeframe: Open from Monday, December 15 to Saturday, January 31, 2026.

Who Can Apply

To be part of the program, you must:

Be 14 to 21 years old
Be in middle or high school
Live in the City of Alexandria
Be allowed to work in the U.S.
Your family gets one of these benefits (or by qualifying based on household income at or below 130% of the federal poverty line):
- SNAP (food stamps)
- Medicaid
- TANF
- Free or reduced-price school lunch based on eligibility for benefits (CES Lunch Letter is not applicable)

Have an IEP at school?
You're still eligible, even if you don’t receive any of the benefits above. However, you’re still required to meet the other eligibility requirements (age, school status, live in the City Of Alexandria, and be allowed to work in the U.S.)

Become a 2026 SYEP Participant

Please read through each drop-down tab before applying.

What Documents Are Needed?

To participate in the program, you’ll need to provide documents that confirm your eligibility. We currently accept the following:

Proof you live in the City of Alexandria
(Examples: school ID, Virginia ID, or a report card with your full name and address)
Proof you can work in the United States
(Examples: Social Security card, birth certificate, or other official documentation)
Proof of income qualifying based on household income at or below 130% of the federal poverty line
(Examples: Free or reduced-price school lunch based on eligibility for benefits (CES Lunch Letter is not applicable), Medicaid Award Letter, Federal Tax Return, W-2, or paystubs)
A government-issued photo ID
(Examples: driver’s license, learner’s permit, school ID, or Virginia ID card)
If you’re using an IEP (Individualized Education Program) for eligibility,
A copy of the IEP will also be required.

Best Combinations to Minimize Documents

If you receive SNAP/Medicaid/TANF/F&R Lunch:

Submit:

1. School ID or Report Card (Covers school + address + possibly photo)

2. Social Security Card, Birth Certificate, Green Card, or Work Authorization Card (Covers work eligibility)

3. Benefit Letter (Covers income requirement)

4. (Optional if School ID doesn’t have photo) A photo ID

= As few as 3 documents

If you don’t get benefits but have an IEP:

Submit:

1. School ID or Report Card (Covers school + address + possibly photo)

2. Social Security Card, Birth Certificate, Green Card, or Work Authorization Card (Covers work eligibility)

3. IEP Document (Covers eligibility alternative)

4. (Optional if School ID doesn’t have photo) A photo ID

= As few as 3 documents

Quick Tips:

• If your school documents don’t have your address, submit a Virginia ID or official mail with your name and Alexandria address.

• Make sure your documents are clear, current, and match your name.

Ready to Apply? Here’s What It Takes

Complete and submit all required forms and documents by the application deadline.
Commit to the full six-week program, including orientation, workshops, work experience, and the closing ceremony. If you have planned vacation or summer school, this would potentially interfere with the program activities.
Adhere to all program policies and guidelines as outlined in the SYEP Participant Handbook.

Due to the six-week timeframe, your dedication to these commitments will help you maximize this valuable opportunity and set you up for future success.

How to Apply

Before you apply, be sure to review the following tabs:

Who Can Apply
What Documents Are Needed
Ready to Apply? Here’s What It Takes

Important: Submit Your Application Once. Completely and Accurately!

To make sure your application is processed smoothly:

Submit your application only once
Include all required documents with your application
Make sure every document is complete and accurate

Spaces are limited, so the earlier you apply with all the necessary paperwork, the better your chances of being enrolled. Incomplete or multiple submissions can cause delays or affect your eligibility. Take a moment to review everything before you submit!

Fill out the Smartsheet Youth Application!

Any questions, please reach out to DCHSSummerYouth@alexandriava.gov.

SYEP Business and Employers