Yenching Global Symposium 2026 Applications Now Open | Fully Funded Global Youth Conference in China

he Yenching Global Symposium (YGS) 2026 delegate applications are officially open, offering young leaders from around the world a fully funded opportunity to engage in high-level dialogue on China and global affairs. Hosted by the Yenching Academy of Peking University, YGS is widely recognized as the largest and most competitive youth symposium focused on China.

Early-bird applications close on 22 December 2025 at 23:59 (GMT+8), while standard applications close on 05 January 2026 at 23:59 (GMT+8). The symposium will take place in China from 16–19 April 2026. Selected delegates will receive full funding, excluding visa costs.

 

About the Yenching Academy

Established in 2014 by Peking University, the Yenching Academy is one of the most selective international graduate programs in the world. It offers a fully funded master’s degree in China Studies and brings together outstanding young scholars committed to understanding China through an interdisciplinary lens.

What Is the Yenching Global Symposium (YGS)?

Founded in 2016, the Yenching Global Symposium (YGS) is a flagship international conference organized by scholars of the Yenching Academy. It is designed to bring together emerging global leaders, practitioners, and China scholars for interdisciplinary dialogue on China’s role in the world.

Each year, YGS receives thousands of applications from over 120 countries and regions. In a recent cycle alone, the symposium recorded more than 10,000 applications, positioning it among the most competitive youth conferences globally.

The symposium combines:

• Academic panels with distinguished speakers

• High-level policy and business discussions

• Cultural workshops and social activities

• Global networking among future leaders

YGS 2026 Theme

Harnessing Momentum: The Power to Act in a Changing World

Under this theme, delegates will explore China’s evolving role in shaping global development, governance, innovation, and international cooperation.

Why Attend the Yenching Global Symposium?

Participation in YGS provides:

• Direct engagement with leading Chinese and international scholars

• Interaction with a diverse cohort of global youth leaders

• Exposure to China’s academic, policy, and cultural environment

• Opportunities to contribute ideas on global challenges

• Lasting international professional and academic networks

YGS Global Impact and Reach

• More than 700 delegates over nine years

• Over 200 distinguished speakers

• Representation from over 120 countries and regions

• Annual themes addressing China’s relationship with the world

• Panels spanning climate change, artificial intelligence, global politics, business, and culture

YGS 2026 Application Timeline

Applications open: 08 December 2025
Early-bird deadline: 22 December 2025 (GMT+8)
Standard deadline: 05 January 2026 (GMT+8)
Delegate results released: Before mid-March 2026
Symposium dates: 16–19 April 2026

Late applications will not be considered.

Yenching Global Symposium 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

• Born on or after May 1995

• In the final year of undergraduate study or already hold a bachelor’s degree or higher

• Able to participate fully in mainland China from 16–19 April 2026

• Must not have previously participated in any Yenching Global Symposium or Yenching Social Innovation Forum

• Demonstrate strong English proficiency

English Language Requirements

Applicants educated in a non-English language are encouraged to submit official test scores meeting one of the following minimum levels:

• IELTS Academic: 7.0

• TOEFL iBT: 100

• Cambridge English Advanced: 185

• CET-6: 600

• TEM-4: “Good” or above

Applicants without test scores may still apply but should clearly demonstrate their English proficiency in their written responses.

Is the YGS 2026 Fully Funded?

The Yenching Global Symposium covers:

• International flights or domestic transport

• Accommodation

• Local transportation

• Meals during the program

Visa application costs are the responsibility of delegates. The organizing committee will provide official invitation letters to support visa applications.

Who Should Apply?

YGS welcomes:

• Final-year undergraduates

• Recent graduates

• Young professionals from all disciplines

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Leadership potential

• Strong interest in China

• Curiosity about global issues

• Ability to contribute meaningfully to interdisciplinary dialogue

Prior experience in China-related academic, professional, or voluntary activities is advantageous but not mandatory.

Delegate Responsibilities

Selected delegates must:

• Attend all scheduled programming from 16–19 April 2026

• Actively participate in discussions and group engagements

• Uphold the academic and professional standards of the symposium

Partial attendance is not permitted.

Required Application Documents

• Completed online application form

• Updated curriculum vitae (CV)

There is no interview stage in the application process.

Can You Attend the Symposium More Than Once?

No. Past Yenching Global Symposium delegates are not eligible to apply again.

Will Delegates Receive a Certificate?

Yes. All delegates who attend the full program will receive an official Certificate of Participation.

Frequently Asked Questions

The official program language is English. Some Chinese-language sessions may be offered with translation support.

Approximately 200 participants will attend YGS 2026, including Yenching Scholars and selected international delegates.

Applications are open to all nationalities.

Attendance is strictly merit-based. There is no option to pay for participation.

Waitlisted applicants will receive a formal email notification.

Due to application volume, feedback is not provided to unsuccessful candidates.

Travel, Visa, and Accommodation

• Travel bookings are arranged by the YGS organizing committee

• Accommodation is fully provided, typically at university-designated facilities

• All delegates must independently secure their visas

• Visa expenses are not reimbursed

Official Contact

For application issues and inquiries:
ygs_delegate@pku.edu.cn

Apply Now for Yenching Global Symposium 2026

The Yenching Global Symposium 2026 offers one of the most competitive and fully funded opportunities for young leaders interested in China and global affairs. With thousands of applicants competing for a limited number of seats, early application is strongly recommended.

Official application portal: https://www.yenchingglobalsymposium.com/