The Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) program is a prestigious academic enrichment opportunity designed for exceptional high school students from around the globe. Held annually at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, this intensive summer program offers talented young individuals a chance to immerse themselves in an intellectually stimulating environment. With students from over 150 countries, including all 50 U.S. states, YYGS fosters a global learning community that encourages academic exploration, cross-cultural exchange, and collaboration.
Each year, YYGS offers various two-week residential sessions that focus on interdisciplinary topics, giving students the opportunity to engage deeply with subjects of personal academic interest. The program is aimed at ambitious high school sophomores and juniors who seek to expand their intellectual horizons and develop their academic and leadership skills.
About the Yale Young Global Scholars Program
YYGS is one of the world’s most globally diverse and competitive academic summer programs. It brings together a community of highly motivated students to explore complex, real-world issues in a collaborative environment. At YYGS, students attend sessions based on their specific academic interests, all while forming lifelong friendships and networking with peers from around the world.
The program is designed to provide students with a rich and challenging experience that fosters personal growth and academic excellence. Through interactive discussions, problem-solving exercises, and project-based learning, students are encouraged to think critically about global challenges and work together to devise innovative solutions.
Summer 2025 Offerings
The Yale Young Global Scholars program offers four distinct sessions across three residential periods in the summer of 2025. Each session focuses on a unique theme, combining interdisciplinary learning and problem-solving with opportunities for students to engage with experts and peers from diverse backgrounds. The summer sessions are as follows:
Session I Residential: June 22 – July 4, 2025
– Innovations in Science & Technology (IST I): Explore the future of science and technology, including cutting-edge innovations and their impact on society.
– Literature, Philosophy, & Culture (LPC I): Delve into the connections between literature, philosophy, and culture, examining how these disciplines influence and reflect society.
– Politics, Law & Economics (PLE I): Engage with the intersection of politics, law, and economics to understand how they shape global and local issues.
– Solving Global Challenges (SGC I): Work on collaborative projects aimed at solving major global challenges, such as climate change, inequality, and public health.
Session II Residential: July 6 – July 18, 2025
– Innovations in Science & Technology (IST II)
– Literature, Philosophy, & Culture (LPC II)
– Politics, Law & Economics (PLE II)
– Solving Global Challenges (SGC II)
Session III Residential: July 20 – August 1, 2025
– Innovations in Science & Technology (IST III)
Each session is designed to engage students in deep, rigorous academic work while encouraging cross-disciplinary thinking and collaborative problem-solving. Throughout the program, participants will have the opportunity to attend lectures, participate in seminars and workshops, and engage with Yale professors, professionals, and fellow students.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Yale Young Global Scholars Program 2025, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Age
– Applicants must be between 16 and 18 years old by July 20, 2025, the start date of Session III.
- Academic Level
– Applicants must be currently in high school as sophomores or juniors (or the international equivalent) at the time of their application.
– Students must be graduating in May/June 2026 or 2027 (for the Northern Hemisphere) or in November/December 2025 or 2026 (for the Southern Hemisphere).
- First-Time Participant
– Applicants must be first-time participants in the YYGS program. If a student has participated in a YYGS session prior to 2024, they are not eligible to apply for YYGS 2025.
– If you previously applied but were not admitted or could not attend, you are encouraged to reapply for YYGS 2025 if you meet the above eligibility criteria.
- English Proficiency
– Applicants should be able to participate in a rigorous academic curriculum conducted entirely in English.
Please note that the program adheres to restrictions regarding minors and no exceptions can be made for the age and prior participation rules.
Application Components
To apply for YYGS 2025, all applicants must submit the following documents:
- Activities List
– A list of extracurricular activities, including leadership roles, volunteer work, academic achievements, and other relevant experiences.
- Essays
– One 400-word essay: The essay should address the applicant’s academic interests, why they want to attend YYGS, and what they hope to gain from the experience.
– One 200-word response: This should discuss the applicant’s motivation for applying and their goals in the field they have chosen.
- Two “Fast Take” Responses
– Short responses (280 characters each) to two questions posed by the YYGS admissions team. These responses help demonstrate the applicant’s ability to think critically and concisely.
- Official School Transcript
– A current transcript from the applicant’s high school. This should include grades and any relevant courses taken.
- Recommender
– One letter of recommendation from a teacher or mentor who will complete the YYGS Recommendation Form. This form should include insights into the applicant’s academic strengths, character, and potential for success in an intensive academic program.
- Application Fee
– A non-refundable application fee of $75 for Early Action or $90 for Regular Decision.
- Optional
– English proficiency test scores: While not required, applicants can submit TOEFL Duolingo scores if they believe it will strengthen their application.
– Need-based financial aid: YYGS offers need-based financial aid for students from all countries. If applying for aid, students must submit a financial aid request as part of their application.
Financial Aid
YYGS is committed to making the program accessible to talented students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The program offers need-based financial aid to cover the costs of the program, including tuition, travel, and other expenses. All students from all countries are encouraged to apply for financial assistance if they require support.
Application Deadlines
– Early Action: Applications are typically due in November 2024, and applicants will be notified of their admission decision in December 2024.
– Regular Decision: Applications for Regular Decision are generally due in January 2025, with decisions announced in February 2025.
Students should submit their applications well before the deadline and ensure that all required materials are included for consideration.
The Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) Program offers a transformative academic experience for high school students with a passion for intellectual exploration and global engagement. By participating in one of the YYGS residential sessions, students will have the opportunity to develop their academic interests, engage with peers from around the world, and gain invaluable skills for their future academic and professional careers.
If you are a motivated high school sophomore or junior who is eager to deepen your knowledge, challenge yourself academically, and join a global community of scholars, YYGS 2025 is an excellent opportunity. With financial aid available and a diverse array of interdisciplinary sessions to choose from, the program provides a unique platform for academic growth and global networking.
To apply, visit the official Yale Young Global Scholars website and begin the application process today.
