Apply for the 2026 UREC Academy Pre-Law + ACT Prep Institute for High School Students

(Baton Rouge) – High School students in the Baton Rouge area are invited to apply to the 2026 UREC Academy Pre-Law + ACT Prep Institute—an interactive afterschool initiative that introduces youth to the fundamentals of law while preparing them for the ACT exam. Register HERE.

The 2026 installment of the program will take place February 24 – May 1, 2026 through a hybrid learning experience. Pre-law instruction will take place at Southern University under the guidance of of a pre-law instructor. ACT preparation will take place virtually. During the program, participants will learn about the legal and criminal justice systems, gain mock trial experience, network with law professionals, and prepare for the ACT exam.

There is no cost to participate. To be eligible for the program, students must have a grade point average of 2.5 or higher and are required to register for the ACT exam that will be administered on April 11.

UREC is intentional about preparing students for their futures through career exploration, college readiness and ACT preparation,  and mentorship,” said UREC President & CEO Carl Dillon. “The UREC Academy Pre-Law and ACT Prep Institute has a strong track record of helping students develop the analytical, communications, and leadership skills required for careers in law. Students who have an interest in exploring law career are encouraged to apply.”

Interested applicants can register HERE.

Program Dates:
February 24 – May 1, 2026
Tuesday – Thursday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Some weekend sessions are required.

Location:
Southern University & Virtual

Eligibility:

  • Open to high school students in the Baton Rouge area
  • 2.5 grade point average or higher
  • Must register for the ACT exam scheduled for April 11, 2026

About UREC Academy:
Urban Restoration Enhancement Corporation (UREC), founded in 1992, is a nonprofit organization that transforms communities by investing in people and restoring neighborhoods. To prepare youth for college and careers, the UREC Academy initiative hosts after-school and summer institutes for high school students—providing them with pathways to Industry-Based Credentials, college and career readiness opportunities, ACT preparation, and real-world or simulated professional experiences. UREC Academy Trailblazer initiatives include the: Pre-Law, ACT Prep, Certified Nursing Assistant, Entrepreneurship, and Technology institutes. The Pre-Law Institute is made possible through partnerships with Southern University Law Center, Huey & Angelina Wilson Foundation, and Capital Area United Way.