Bellevue Essentials provides an introduction to civic leadership. The transformational program highlights the structure and daily operations of city government in Bellevue. Topics include demographics, public process, diversity, city planning, economic development, human services, utilities, finance and transportation, fire, police and more.
Applications for the 2025 class are available now! You can learn more at upcoming information sessions and fill out the online application at the bottom of this page.
Program Details
Applicants must live or work in Bellevue. Elected officials and candidates are not eligible to apply. The selection process involves a short application and three essay questions. Every year we receive many more applicants than we can accommodate in that year's class. Selection is primarily weighted on the application and your responses to the essay questions.
Attendance at an information session is beneficial but not required. It is recommended that you submit your application after attending an information session or viewing the Bellevue Essentials video.
For more information, contact samiller@bellevuewa.gov. For alternate formats, interpreters, or reasonable accommodation requests please phone at least 48 hours in advance 425-452-4295 (voice) or email samiller@bellevuewa.gov. For complaints regarding accommodations, contact City of Bellevue ADA/Title VI Administrator at 425-452-6168 (voice). If you are deaf or hard of hearing, dial 711.
- Bellevue Essentials Brochure
- Bellevue Essentials Application (printable)
- Bellevue Essentials 2024 video
2025 Information Sessions
Hear from graduates and participate in a “Question & Answer” session. Session will include tips for submitting a successful Bellevue Essentials application. Attending an information meeting is beneficial but not required to apply.
To attend an information session, please register at BEInfoSession2025.eventbrite.com.
Session 1
When: Tuesday, June 10 12-12:30 p.m.
Where: Teams Virtual Meeting
Session 2
When: Thursday, June 12 6:30-7 p.m.
Where: Bellevue City Hall (450 110th Ave NE)
Session 3
When: Wednesday, June 25 6:30-7 p.m.
Where: South Bellevue Community Center (14509 SE Newport Way)
Thanks to our funding partner, Amazon!
Essentials Information Flier (translated)
- Bellevue Essentials Brochure
- 为期 10 周的贝尔维尤市市政实务课程
- 為期 10 周的貝爾維尤市市政實務課程
- ベルビュー市 ガバメント・イン・アクション 10週間コース
- 벨뷰 시 정부 활동에 관한 10주 과정
- 10-недельный курс по управлению городом Белвью в действии
- Un curso de 10 semanas sobre el gobierno de la ciudad de Bellevue en acción
- Khóa học 10 tuần về Chính quyền Thành phố Bellevue trong Thực tiễn
Community Development
