The Applications are open to apply for the YSEALI Academic Fellows Program 2026. It is a Fully Funded Exchange Program in the USA for 5 Weeks. The Program will start in the Fall and Spring of 2026. Fellows can join the YSEALI Academic Fellows Program either in Fall or in Spring 2026. There is no application fee, and all Expenses are covered by the U.S. Department of State.
The Objective of the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Academic Fellows Program is to build Leadership skills, strengthen the ties between Fellows. The Program is open to both Undergraduate and Graduate students. Fellows will spend 5 Weeks at one of the 12 host institutions across the country. Below are more details about the YSEALI Academic Fellows Program requirements, financial benefits, and the application Process.
Details About the YSEALI Academic Fellows Program 2026 in the USA
- Host Country: USA
- Fellowship Duration: 5 weeks
- Program Period: Fall and Spring 2026
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 21st July 2025
Financial Benefits
The Program Covers:
- No program Fee
- International travel Expenses to/from the USA
- Basic Living Costs
- J1 Visa Fee
Program Themes
- Civic Engagement.
- Natural Resources.
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
- Society and Governance.
- Read more about the Themes.
Host Institutes in the USA
Over five weeks, Fellows will study at one of 12 different host institutions throughout the United States.
- Northern Arizona University
- Portland State University
- University of Nebraska at Omaha
- California State University, Chico
- East-West Center
- University of Montana
- University of Connecticut
- University of Kansas
- University of Nevada at Reno
- James Madison University
- Syracuse University
- Western Washington University
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: Between 18 and 25 by the application deadline (exceptional applicants over 25 may be considered if all other eligibility requirements are met).
- Citizenship: Citizen of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, or Vietnam.
- Residency: Resident of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, or Vietnam.
- Education: Full-time or part-time undergraduate student from a college, university, or other institution of higher learning; OR, Graduated with an undergraduate degree in the past four years.
- English Proficiency: Proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English.
- U.S. Status: Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States.
- U.S. Government Affiliation: Not an employee or immediate family member of an employee of the U.S. Government (including a U.S. embassy or consulate, USAID, or other U.S. Government entity).
- Previous YSEALI Participation: Not an alumnus/alumna of the YSEALI Academic Fellows Program.
- Visa Eligibility: Eligible to receive a U.S. J-1 visa.
How to Apply for the YSEALI Academic Fellows Program 2026?
Applicants have to apply online from the official website. The Link is below.
APPLY FOR THE YSEALI ACADEMIC PROGRAM 2026