Are you a young leader, final-year student, or early-career professional passionate about global affairs, China’s role in the world, and international dialogue?
The Yenching Global Symposium (YGS) 2026 delegate applications are now officially open, offering a fully funded opportunity to participate in one of the most competitive and prestigious youth conferences in the world—hosted by Peking University, China.
Selected delegates will travel to China in April 2026 for four days of high-level discussions, networking, and cultural exchange—with almost all expenses covered.
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 of Peking University.
It brings together:
- Emerging global leaders
- Policymakers
- Entrepreneurs
- Academics
- Young professionals
for interdisciplinary dialogue on China and global affairs.
YGS is widely recognized as the largest and most competitive youth symposium focused on China, receiving thousands of applications from over 120 countries every year. In a recent cycle alone, more than 10,000 applications were submitted.
About the Yenching Academy
Established in 2014, the Yenching Academy of Peking University is one of the most selective international graduate programs in the world.
The Academy offers a fully funded Master’s degree in China Studies, designed to cultivate future leaders with deep, interdisciplinary understanding of China’s:
- Politics
- Economy
- History
- Culture
- Global role
YGS is organized by current Yenching Scholars and reflects the Academy’s mission of global engagement and intellectual excellence.
Yenching Global Symposium 2026 Theme
Harnessing Momentum: The Power to Act in a Changing World
Under this theme, YGS 2026 will explore:
- China’s evolving role in global development
- Governance and international cooperation
- Innovation and technology
- Climate change and sustainability
- Business, culture, and global politics
Delegates will engage in forward-looking discussions on how global actors can respond to today’s rapidly shifting world.
Why Attend the Yenching Global Symposium?
Participation in YGS offers exceptional academic and professional value, including:
- Direct engagement with leading Chinese and international scholars
- Interaction with a highly diverse cohort of global youth leaders
- Exposure to China’s academic, policy, and cultural environment
- Opportunities to contribute ideas on global challenges
- Access to a powerful international alumni network
Many past delegates describe YGS as a career-defining experience.
YGS Global Impact & Reach
Over the past nine years, YGS has achieved remarkable global reach:
- 700+ delegates selected
- 200+ distinguished speakers
- Representation from 120+ countries and regions
- Panels covering:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Climate Change
- Global Politics
- Business & Innovation
- Culture & Society
Is the Yenching Global Symposium 2026 Fully Funded?
Yes. The Yenching Global Symposium 2026 is fully funded, excluding visa costs.
What the Funding Covers:
- International flights or domestic transportation
- Accommodation
- Local transportation in China
- Meals throughout the program
Not Covered:
- Visa application fees (delegates cover this themselves)
The organizing committee provides official invitation letters to support visa applications.
YGS 2026 Application Timeline
- Applications open: 08 December 2025
- Early-bird deadline: 22 December 2025 (23:59 GMT+8)
- Standard deadline: 05 January 2026 (23:59 GMT+8)
- Delegate results released: Before mid-March 2026
- Symposium dates: 16–19 April 2026
⚠️ Late applications will not be considered.
Eligibility Criteria for YGS 2026
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Born on or after May 1995
- Final-year undergraduate or already hold a bachelor’s degree or higher
- Available to participate fully in mainland China from 16–19 April 2026
- Must not have previously participated in:
- Yenching Global Symposium
- Yenching Social Innovation Forum
- Strong English proficiency
English Language Requirements
Applicants educated in a non-English language are encouraged to submit test scores meeting one of the following minimums:
- 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 must clearly demonstrate English proficiency in their written responses.
Who Should Apply?
YGS welcomes applicants from all nationalities and academic backgrounds, including:
- Final-year undergraduates
- Recent graduates
- Young professionals
Ideal candidates demonstrate:
- Leadership potential
- Strong interest in China
- Curiosity about global issues
- Ability to contribute meaningfully to interdisciplinary discussions
Prior China-related experience is helpful but not required.
Delegate Responsibilities
Selected delegates must:
- Attend all sessions from 16–19 April 2026
- Actively participate in discussions and group activities
- Uphold the academic and professional standards of YGS
❌ 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 YGS More Than Once?
No. Previous Yenching Global Symposium delegates are not eligible to apply again.
Will Delegates Receive a Certificate?
Yes. All delegates who complete the full program will receive an official Certificate of Participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Program language: English (some Chinese sessions may include translation)
- Number of participants: Approximately 200
- Application fee: None
- Pay-to-attend option: Not available
- Waitlist: Yes, with email notification
- Feedback for unsuccessful applicants: Not provided
Travel, Visa & Accommodation
- Travel bookings are arranged by the YGS organizing committee
- Accommodation is fully provided
- Delegates must independently secure their visas
- Visa costs are not reimbursed
Official Contact Information
For application inquiries:
📧 [email protected]
Final Note
The Yenching Global Symposium 2026 is a rare, fully funded opportunity to engage China at the highest academic and global policy level while building lifelong international connections.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, do not delay your application—competition is intense, and early submission is strongly recommended.
👉 Share this opportunity with friends, students, and young professionals who should apply.