2026 Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Program for African secondary school students
- Omran Aburayya
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 hours ago
Applications are now open for the 2026 Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Program, an esteemed academic and enrichment initiative tailored for African secondary school students. This program aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders by providing participants with the tools and knowledge to pursue higher education and make a meaningful impact across the continent. Here's everything you need to know.
🎓 Programme Summary
Location: Online and Residential Summit in Kenya
Organizer: Yale University
Study Level: Secondary School (Grades 10–11)
Target Group: African secondary school students aged 14–18
Fields of Focus: University preparation, leadership, innovation, design, 21st-century skills
Value and Coverage:
Online Workshop: Free of charge
Residential Summit: Tuition-free; includes free housing, meals, and academic materials
Duration:
Online Workshop: 6 days (16–21 July 2026)
Residential Summit: 9 days (8–16 August 2026)
Application Deadlines:
Early Action: 20 October 2025
Regular Decision: 21 January 2026
Start Date: 16 July 2026
Eligible To: Students from all African countries
📚 Program Overview
YYAS College Prep Workshop (Online)
This 6-day virtual workshop is designed for approximately 240 students across Africa. Participants will engage in:
Career exploration
University application preparation
Transitioning from secondary school to university
The workshop will be conducted via Zoom, and students must have access to a reliable internet connection. A Certificate of Completion will be awarded to those who successfully finish the program.
YYAS Residential Leadership Summit (Kenya)
Held over 9 days at a residential school campus in Kenya, this summit will accommodate around 110 students. In addition to the topics covered in the online workshop, the summit will delve into:
Leadership development
Innovation and design thinking
21st-century skills
All expenses, including housing, meals, and academic materials, are covered. Participants will receive a Certificate of Completion upon successful participation. Travel grants are available for students outside Kenya based on need.
🌟 Program Benefits
Comprehensive Curriculum: Gain insights into university admissions, career planning, and essential life skills.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded peers and mentors from across Africa.
Skill Development: Enhance leadership, innovation, and critical thinking abilities.
Financial Support: Access to travel grants for eligible students attending the Residential Summit.
Certification: Receive a Certificate of Completion to bolster university applications.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Age: 14–18 years old on 16 July 2026
Education Level: Current 10th or 11th-grade student (or international equivalent)
Citizenship: Must be a citizen or permanent resident of an African country; refugees residing in Africa are also eligible
Language Proficiency: Ability to participate in an English-language academic curriculum
Graduation Timeline:
Northern Hemisphere: Graduating between May/June 2027 and May/June 2028
Southern Hemisphere: Graduating between November/December 2026 and November/December 2027
📝 Application Procedure
Apply online through the online application form.
🗂️ Required Documents:
Completed Application Form: Includes a 500-word essay and two short responses.
Official Transcripts: From all secondary schools attended.
Teacher Recommendation: Submitted via an online form by a teacher who knows the applicant well.
Application Deadlines:
Early Action: 20 October 2025
Regular Decision: 21 January 2026
For more details and to apply, visit the official how to apply webpage
🚀 Conclusion
The Yale Young African Scholars Program is a transformative opportunity for aspiring young leaders committed to academic excellence and positive change. Don't miss the chance to be part of this prestigious program. Apply today and take the first step towards a brighter future.