Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) 2027 is now accepting applications from talented secondary school students across Africa for a fully funded academic enrichment and leadership programme designed to prepare young people for university and future leadership opportunities. The programme is hosted by Yale University and provides African students with an opportunity to engage in rigorous academic learning, develop leadership skills, explore university opportunities and connect with other ambitious young people from across the continent.

The 2027 programme offers two participation options. The Residential Leadership Summit will take place in Rwanda from 15 to 20 July 2027, while the Online College Prep Workshop will be held from 7 to 15 August 2027. There is no application fee, and need-based travel grants are available for eligible students selected for the residential programme.

Applicants must be between 14 and 18 years old on 15 July 2027, although the typical YYAS participant is 16 or 17 years old. They must be able to participate fully in an intensive academic programme conducted in English and must be citizens or permanent residents of an African country. Refugees living in an African country are also eligible to apply. Applicants must currently attend a school located in an African country and must be enrolled in Grade 10 or Grade 11, or an international equivalent.

Students must also meet the programme’s graduation timeline. Those attending school in the Northern Hemisphere must graduate from secondary school no earlier than May/June 2028 and no later than May/June 2029. Students in the Southern Hemisphere must graduate no earlier than November/December 2027 and no later than November/December 2028. Students currently in their final year or term of secondary school, those who have already completed secondary school, and university students are not eligible.

Students who have previously participated in Yale Young African Scholars or Yale Young Global Scholars are not eligible to apply or reapply for YYAS. However, YYAS alumni may apply for Yale Young Global Scholars if they meet its eligibility requirements.

The Early Action application deadline is 20 October 2026, while the Regular Decision deadline is 20 January 2027 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Students interested in applying should review the official eligibility requirements carefully and prepare their applications before the relevant deadline.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity