The Christian Leadership Institute is a four-day leadership initiative offered by Baylor University for rising high school seniors that have an interest in growing their leadership skill set from a Christian perspective and Biblical worldview. CLI is designed to equip rising seniors with both the skills and the confidence to take on leadership roles during their final year in high school and beyond.
Students will be mentored by current Baylor students and professional staff as they engage in team-building activities, classroom training, small-group fellowship, and one-on-one mentorship. CLI creates a unique environment in which new friendships are formed, strengths and callings are identified, and Christian leadership potential is realized, while getting a unique and first-hand look at the college experience.
Spots are limited, so early registration is recommended.
CLI 2026
- Dates: June 23 - June 26, 2026
- Cost: $425
- Participant Requirements: Current high school juniors that are graduating in spring 2027
- Registration Opens: February 23, 2026 at 8:00 AM
- Registration Deadline: May 31, 2026
- Check In: June 23, 2026 - 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Check-out: June 26, 2026 - 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Housing: TBD
- Meals: All provided in campus dining halls
Yes! Baylor is 100 miles south of Dallas (DFW) and 100 miles north of Austin (AUS). Connecting flights are available into Waco (ACT), as well as a ground shuttle service. If you fly into Waco, a Baylor shuttle will pick you up at the Waco airport and bring you to campus.
Typically, CLI has between 120-150 students from many states and several different countries.
Yes, although we encourage participants to take this opportunity to meet new people and consider it part of the CLI, learning experience.
CLI staff do not collect cell phones, but campers are encouraged and challenged to be unplugged and expected to be technology-free during sessions.
All students should manage allergies through careful, cafeteria selections. Accommodations will be made if meals are catered/delivered.
The CLI keynote speakers include distinguished Baylor faculty and staff members, local church leaders, and influential businessmen and women.