Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) is an intensive academic and enrichment program designed for African secondary school students who plan to pursue tertiary education and wish to make meaningful impact as young leaders on the continent. The Residential Leadership Summit in Kenya focuses on college prep topics, leadership, innovation, design, and 21st-century skills. Participants enhance academic skills, receive university admission and financial aid application guidance, and join a network of young leaders from across Africa. The program is tuition-free and provides free housing, meals, and academic materials. A limited number of need-based Travel Grants are available.
Yale Young African Scholars
YYAS Residential Leadership Summit
ClosedEngineeringTechnologySummer Program
About the Program
Eligibility
Must be able to participate in a rigorous academic curriculum conducted in English. Must currently attend school in an African country. Cannot be in the final year or term of secondary school, have already graduated secondary school, or be a university student. Past YYAS or YYGS alumni are not eligible to apply for YYAS. You must be between the ages of 14-18 years old on July 16, 2026 in order to be considered. A typical YYAS student is between the ages of 16-17. Must be a current 10th or 11th grade student (or the international equivalents). If attending school in the Northern Hemisphere, must be graduating secondary school by earliest May/June 2027 and no later than May/June 2028. If attending school in the Southern Hemisphere, must be graduating secondary school by earliest November/December 2026 and no later than November/December 2027.
Eligible Countries
citizenship, residency permanent, refugee in: Africa🌍 Must be a citizen or permanent resident of an African country, or a refugee living in an African country.
How to Apply
Review eligibility criteria and required components. Review a sample blank application and prepare answers. Submit contact information for a parent/guardian, teacher, and/or school official. Complete and submit the online application. Check for a confirmation receipt.