Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Program 2026 – Fully Funded Academic Opportunity

Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Program 2026 – Fully Funded Academic Opportunity

The Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Program 2026 is an intensive and enriching academic initiative designed for outstanding secondary school students from across Africa who aspire to pursue tertiary education and become impactful young leaders on the continent. The program equips students with critical academic skills, mentorship, and university application guidance to prepare them for higher education and leadership opportunities worldwide.

Table of Contents

1. About Yale Young Global Scholars
2. Yale Young African Scholars Program Overview
3. Aim and Benefits of the Program
4. Eligibility Criteria
5. Selection Process and Program Details
6. Application Deadlines
7. How to Apply
8. Useful Resources

About Yale Young Global Scholars

Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) is a prestigious academic and leadership program hosted by Yale University, USA. It promotes intellectual curiosity and leadership among young people through interdisciplinary learning and global collaboration. The African edition, YYAS, was developed to support African high school students in accessing world-class educational and leadership opportunities while strengthening the continent’s next generation of thinkers and change-makers.

Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Program Overview

The YYAS Program offers African high school students an opportunity to develop their academic potential, improve leadership skills, and learn about the university application process. Participants join a dynamic network of like-minded young leaders across the continent. Each applicant may select one session of preference during the application process.

• Program Type: College Preparation & Leadership Development
• Host Institution: Yale Young Global Scholars
• Eligibility: African students aged 14–18
• Application Deadline: 21 January 2026

Aim and Benefits of Yale Young African Scholars Program

• Enhance academic and analytical skills.
• Receive guidance on university admissions and financial aid applications.
• Participate in leadership and career development workshops.
• Join a continental network of talented and ambitious youth.
• Earn a Certificate of Completion upon successfully finishing the program.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the YYAS 2026 Program, applicants must meet all the following conditions:

• Age: 14–18 years old as of July 16, 2026 (most students are 16–17).
• Citizenship: Must be a citizen or permanent resident of an African country (refugees in Africa are also eligible).
• School Location: Must currently be enrolled in a school within Africa.
• Academic Level: Must be in Grade 10 or 11 (or equivalent).
• English Proficiency: Must be able to participate in an intensive English-based academic curriculum.
• Graduation Date:
  • Northern Hemisphere students: graduate between May/June 2027 and May/June 2028.
  • Southern Hemisphere students: graduate between Nov/Dec 2026 and Nov/Dec 2027.
• Students who have already graduated or are in university are not eligible.

Selection Process and Program Details

YYAS College Prep Workshop (Online)

• Admits approximately 240 students from across Africa.
• Focuses on career guidance, university preparation, and personal development.
• Delivered online via Zoom – participants must have a stable internet connection.
• Completely free of charge.

YYAS Summit (Residential in Kenya)

• Admits about 110 students for a 9-day residential experience in Kenya.
• Covers leadership, innovation, design thinking, and university readiness.
• Provides free tuition, housing, meals, and learning materials.
• Students outside Kenya must coordinate travel arrangements and visas.
• Limited need-based travel grants available for non-Kenyan participants.

Key Dates

Application Deadlines

Final Application Deadline: 21 January 2026

How to Apply for YYAS 2026

1. Review the full eligibility criteria carefully.
2. Prepare all necessary details using the sample blank application (PDF).
3. Provide contact details for a parent/guardian and a school official or teacher.
4. Click “Apply Now” on the YYAS official website and create your account.
5. Complete all required sections and check the “Review” page for any missing information.
6. Submit your application and wait for a confirmation email (arrives within 24–48 hours).

If you encounter difficulties during the application process, reach out early to the YYAS staff for assistance via the contact form on the official page.

Useful Resources

• Official YYAS Webpage
• Wikihii.co.za – Latest Scholarships for African Students
• Join Wikihii Updates on WhatsApp

Conclusion

The Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Program 2026 is a transformative opportunity for ambitious African high school students aiming to study at top universities worldwide. The program not only enhances academic excellence but also builds leadership, innovation, and community engagement skills — all free of charge. Don’t miss the chance to join this prestigious network of emerging African leaders.