Applications are now open for the 2027 Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Programme, an intensive academic and enrichment programme for African secondary school students preparing for tertiary education and interested in making an impact as young leaders. Participants strengthen their academic skills, receive guidance on university admission and financial aid applications, and join a network of young leaders from across Africa. For 2027, YYAS offers both an online programme and a residential programme. Students may attend only one session but can indicate their preferred session(s) on the application form.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Age: Be 14-18 years old on July 15, 2027.
- Language: Be able to participate in a rigorous academic programme conducted in English.
- Citizenship: Be a citizen or permanent resident of an African country. Refugees living in an African country may also apply.
- School Enrollment: Currently attend school in an African country, as a current 10th or 11th grade student or international equivalent.
- Timeline: Meet the programme's specified secondary-school graduation timeline. Students in their final year of secondary school, already graduated, or currently in university are not eligible.
Two Programme Options
- YYAS College Prep Workshop (Online): Admits about 240 students from across Africa. Entirely free, participants need a mobile phone, tablet, or computer, reliable internet, and Zoom access.
- YYAS Residential Leadership Summit: Admits about 110 students for a 9-day residential experience covering college preparation, leadership, innovation, design, and 21st-century skills. Tuition-free, with accommodation, meals, and academic materials provided. Participants are responsible for travel to and from the host country, including passports and visas.
Ideal Applicant Profile
YYAS looks for strong academic performance, leadership potential, strong written and verbal communication skills, ability to work cooperatively with peers, persistence when facing challenges, high standards of personal and professional conduct, ability to read and analyze challenging material in English, and maturity and interest in discussions about intellectual, moral, and political issues in Africa.
Application Timeline
Early Action:
- Application deadline: October 20, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.
- Admission decision: December 18, 2026.
- Offer acceptance deadline: January 5, 2027.
Regular Decision:
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- Application deadline: January 20, 2027, at 11:59 PM ET.
- Admission decision: March 20, 2027.
- Offer acceptance deadline: March 25, 2027.
How to Apply
Apply through the official Yale Young African Scholars website.
Disclaimer
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Results and outcomes are not guaranteed.
