•Be a citizen or permanent resident of an African country, or a refugee currently residing in an African country

•Currently attend secondary school in an African country

•Be in your penultimate year of secondary school (having one term to one full academic year left before completing secondary education)

•Be at least 14 years old by the application deadline

•Demonstrate strong academic performance and leadership potential

•Be fluent in written and spoken English

The Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Program is an intensive academic and leadership enrichment program designed for high-achieving African secondary school students who wish to make meaningful contributions to their communities and explore higher education opportunities. Administered by Yale University's MacMillan Center for International and Area Studies, YYAS brings together talented youth from across the continent for seminars taught by Yale faculty and students, workshops on university admissions and financial aid, and leadership development activities.

•100% free of tuition, room, and board for all admitted participants

•Full coverage of academic materials, meals, and on-site lodging during residential sessions

•Internet data stipends provided to participants with demonstrated need for virtual sessions

•Need-based travel grants available to cover transportation and travel costs to residential program locations

•Comprehensive university admissions and financial aid counseling provided at no cost