YSEALI Academic Fellows Program 2026 in the USA – A Fully Funded Leadership Journey for Southeast Asian Youth
Are you a young changemaker from Southeast Asia with big dreams and a passion for leadership? Here’s your golden opportunity to experience the U.S. education system, explore global challenges, and grow your leadership skills — completely free of charge.
Applications are now open for the YSEALI Academic Fellows Program 2026, a 5-week fully funded exchange program in the United States. Whether you’re an undergraduate student or a recent graduate, this experience could be your gateway to bigger things.
Let’s walk you through what the program offers, who can apply, and how to submit a strong application before the deadline on July 21, 2025.
🌍 What is the YSEALI Academic Fellows Program?
The Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) was created by the U.S. Department of State to strengthen leadership development and ties between the U.S. and Southeast Asia.
Through the Academic Fellows Program, selected participants spend 5 weeks in the U.S., studying key themes like:
You’ll get the chance to learn at a top U.S. university, take part in cultural exchanges, build leadership skills, and develop a project that can impact your home community.
📌 Program Highlights
✈️ What Does the Fellowship Cover?
This is a 100% fully funded program, meaning you won’t pay a cent. The U.S. government will cover:
So all you need to bring is your passion and your passport.
🏫 Where Will You Study?
You’ll be assigned to one of 12 prestigious host institutions, such as:
Each university offers a unique learning environment, campus culture, and program focus—so every Fellow’s experience is different, but equally valuable.
✅ Who Can Apply?
The program is only open to citizens and residents of Southeast Asia. Here’s a quick breakdown:
📅 Age:
(Exceptional applicants older than 25 may be considered)
🌐 Citizenship & Residency:
Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, or Vietnam
🎓 Education:
OR
🗣️ English:
🚫 Not Eligible If:
📝 How to Apply
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
👉 Apply for the YSEALI Academic Fellows Program 2026
💬 Final Thoughts
The YSEALI Academic Fellows Program 2026 is more than a scholarship — it’s a launchpad for future leaders. You’ll learn from world-class professors, collaborate with students from around the world, and return home with new skills, a broader perspective, and a stronger voice.
So if you’re a young Southeast Asian eager to create change in your community — this is your moment. Don’t miss the July 21 deadline!
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