Applications are now open for the Yenching Global Symposium (YGS) 2026, one of the world’s most competitive and prestigious youth conferences on China and global affairs. Hosted annually by the Yenching Academy of Peking University, YGS brings together outstanding young leaders, scholars, and professionals for four days of high-level dialogue, cultural exchange, and interdisciplinary learning.
The 2026 symposium will take place in China from 16–19 April 2026, providing a fully funded experience for selected delegates (excluding visa costs). Early-bird applications close 22 December 2025 (23:59 GMT+8), and standard applications close 05 January 2026 (23:59 GMT+8).
About the Yenching Academy
Established in 2014 at Peking University, the Yenching Academy is one of the most selective international graduate programmes in the world. It offers a prestigious, fully funded Master’s in China Studies, attracting top scholars who seek to understand China through an interdisciplinary and global lens.
YGS is an extension of this mission—uniting curious minds eager to explore China’s evolving role in global development, politics, innovation, and culture.
What is the Yenching Global Symposium?
Launched in 2016, the Yenching Global Symposium is a flagship annual conference organised by Yenching Scholars. Each year, it convenes emerging global leaders for academic panels, policy discussions, cultural workshops, and experiential learning.
YGS stands out for its:
- Extremely competitive selection process (10,000+ applications in previous cycles)
- Participation from 120+ countries and regions
- An interdisciplinary and global approach to China studies
- Lineup of renowned speakers, from diplomats to academics and business leaders
Delegates gain a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of China’s global significance while forming lifelong networks.
YGS 2026 Theme: Harnessing Momentum – The Power to Act in a Changing World
This theme explores how China and the international community respond to rapid global transformations—spanning governance, innovation, sustainability, diplomacy, and cultural exchange.
Delegates will engage with:
- High-level academic talks
- Policy and industry panels
- Cultural immersion sessions
- Cross-cultural dialogue with peers from around the world
Why Attend the Yenching Global Symposium?
YGS provides unparalleled benefits for young leaders, including:
Academic & Intellectual Growth
- Direct dialogue with top scholars on China studies and global challenges
- Exposure to a multidisciplinary exploration of China’s global trajectory
Global Networking
- Connect with delegates and scholars from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds
- Build a long-term international network of future leaders
Unique China Experience
- Cultural workshops and curated activities
- First-hand understanding of China’s academic, political, and social landscape
Career & Leadership Development
- Interdisciplinary conversations that sharpen strategic thinking
- A prestigious credential valued by global institutions
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Impact and Global Reach of YGS
Over nine years, YGS has grown into one of the world’s most influential youth symposia:
- 700+ delegates trained
- 200+ distinguished speakers hosted
- Representation from 120+ countries
- Annual themes addressing pressing global issues—from politics and development to climate and technology
Application Timeline for YGS 2026
- 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 accepted.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for YGS 2026, candidates must:
- Be born on or after May 1995
- Be a final-year undergraduate or hold at least a bachelor’s degree
- Demonstrate strong English proficiency
- Be available for full participation in China (16–19 April 2026)
- Not have attended any previous Yenching Global Symposium or Yenching Social Innovation Forum
English Language Requirements
Applicants educated in a non-English language environment are encouraged to submit official test scores:
- 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 demonstrate strong English ability through written responses.
Is YGS 2026 Fully Funded?
Yes — the symposium covers:
- International flights or domestic travel
- Accommodation
- Meals during the event
- Local transportation
Visa costs are not covered, but delegates receive official documentation to support visa applications.
Who Should Apply?
YGS seeks applicants who demonstrate:
- Leadership potential
- Curiosity about China and global affairs
- Strong academic or professional interest in interdisciplinary dialogue
- Ability to contribute thoughtfully to global conversations
Ideal candidates include:
- Final-year university students
- Recent graduates
- Young professionals across all disciplines
China-related experience is beneficial but not required.
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Delegate Responsibilities
All selected delegates must:
- Attend the entire symposium schedule (16–19 April 2026)
- Participate actively in discussions and group activities
- Uphold high academic and professional standards
Partial participation is not permitted.
Required Application Documents
- Completed online application form
- Updated curriculum vitae (CV)
There is no interview stage. Selection is based solely on written applications.
Additional Key Information
- Past delegates cannot reapply.
- Successful attendees receive a Certificate of Participation.
- Official language of the symposium: English.
- Approximately 200 participants will attend, including invited delegates and Yenching Scholars.
- All nationalities are eligible.
- The programme does not accept paid participation.
Waitlisted applicants will receive official notification by email.
Travel, Visa and Accommodation
- Travel arrangements are organised by the YGS team.
- Accommodation is fully covered (usually at university-designated facilities).
- Delegates must secure their own visas.
- Visa fees are not reimbursed.
Official Contact
For inquiries or application support:
📧 ygs_delegate@pku.edu.cn
APPLY FOR THE YENCHING GLOBAL SYMPOSIUM
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