In order to get accepted, prospective scholars must have high academic achievement, including standardized test scores, and be active in the community.
The 1,000 rising seniors that are selected yearly are eligible to receive scholarships to any in-state public university upon completing the program.
Approximately 1,020 Kentucky students are selected yearly based on an application process detailing their academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, volunteerism, and personal integrity.
Participating scholars are granted the opportunity to expand their horizons by forming close relationships with their peers representing all 120 counties in the commonwealth.
This allows each application to be read blindly, without any regard to the student's personal information, and insures fairness in the selection process.
GSP students are required to stay on their given campus for the duration of the program, except for group field trips and service work.
Regular field trips, ranging from the Little Sandy Correctional Complex to the Cincinnati Opera, enhance the GSP experience.
The program hosts guest speaker convocations and leadership colloquiums, ACT prep, GSP Olympics, Community Arts Day, International Fair, Blood Drives and Community Service Day, as well as weekly showcases where students can perform talent and entertainment acts.
The students also have opportunities to participate in weekly dances, Classic Film Series viewings, and a Fourth of July Parade.
Additionally, the program encourages scholars to form and publicize their own student-led events and clubs which can meet during free time throughout the day.
[8] Because of the rigorous application process and educational purpose, alumni have access to a multitude of scholarships due to their involvement in the program.