Written by Yale Young African Scholars Program (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.
Across both programs, participants will enhance their academic skills, receive university admission and financial aid application guidance, and join a network of young leaders from across Africa.
Students may attend only one session, but they can indicate their preferred session(s) on the YYAS application form.
Participants will enhance their academic skills, receive guidance on university admissions and career path options, and join a network of young leaders from across Africa.
Following the program, students will be paired with mentors who will advise them throughout the university application process.
Overview
- Type: High School Scholarships
- Host: Yale University
- Eligible Countries: African Countries
- Benefits: Full Sponsorship, Accommodation, Meals
- Deadline: 21st January, 2026
Requirement
- be between the ages of 14-18 years old on the program dates in 2026 in order to be considered (i.e. born between 18 August 2008 and 16 July 2012).
- be able to participate in a rigorous academic curriculum conducted in English.
- be a citizen or permanent resident of an African country. YYAS will also accept applications from refugees living in an African country.
- be currently attend school in an African country.
- be a current 10th or 11th grade student (or the international equivalents).
Benefits
- To make the program accessible to students of all financial backgrounds, there is no cost for students to participate in YYAS.
- The YYAS Summit is tuition-free ($0) and provides free housing, meals, and all academic curriculum materials.
Duration of Program:
- YYAS Online College Prep Workshop (6 days): 16 – 21 July 2026
- YYAS Residential Leadership Summit (Kenya; 9 days): 8 – 16 August 2026
Documents Needed
- Activities list
- One 400-word essay and one 200-word response
- Two “fast take” responses (280 characters each)
- Official school transcript
- One Recommender (who will complete the YYGS Recommendation Form* ONLY)
- Application fee ($70 for Early Action and $85 for Regular Decision)
- You must click the Submit Application button on the “Review” page for your application to be considered.
- OPTIONAL: English fluency test scores (TOEFL or DuoLingo)
- OPTIONAL: Need-based financial aid