Call for Applications: Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Programme 2027

About

The Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Programme is inviting applications for its 2027 cohort. YYAS is an intensive academic and enrichment initiative by Yale University aimed at high-achieving African secondary school students who aspire to pursue higher education. The programme operates in two formats: an online college-prep workshop and an in-person Residential Leadership Summit in Rwanda.

Eligibility — verbatim from the source

Open to citizens, permanent residents, or refugees aged 14–18 living and attending secondary school in an African country. Applicants must be in 10th or 11th grade (or equivalent, such as SS1 or SS2 in West Africa) with graduation expected between 2027 and 2029 depending on hemisphere system. Must demonstrate strong academic standing, leadership potential, and fluency in English. Preference is given to high-achieving, low-income students.

Requirements

What you get

• Tuition-free participation, accommodation, meals, course materials, leadership workshops, university admissions mentoring, and financial-aid guidance (need-based travel grants available for residential summit attendees).

Important dates

• Deadline: Oct 26, 2026

Location

Rwanda