The YSEALI (Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative) Academic Fellows Program (AFP) is a prestigious, fully funded leadership program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. It aims to develop leadership skills among young people in Southeast Asia and strengthen ties between the U.S. and Southeast Asian countries. This program brings together future leaders from the region to solve shared challenges and build strong cross-border networks.
YSEALI AFP is open to undergraduate students and recent graduates aged 18 to 25 from 11 Southeast Asian countries. These countries include Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam. The program is hosted at 12 U.S. universities that offer academic residencies in themes like Civic Engagement, Natural Resources, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Society and Governance.
Participants will spend five weeks in the United States attending academic courses, community service, field experiences, and leadership workshops. The program also includes a Reciprocal Exchange, where American participants visit Southeast Asia to foster ongoing collaboration. YSEALI AFP covers all costs, including travel, visa fees, accommodation, and living expenses.
What makes this program unique is its strong focus on leadership development through practical experiences and its network of prestigious U.S. host institutions. The program also offers an opportunity to connect with other emerging leaders from the region and gain exposure to American culture, society, and governance practices.
Quick Overview of YSEALI Academic Fellows Program 2026
- Host Country: United States of America
- Host Institutions: 12 U.S. universities, including the University of Montana, Northern Arizona University, California State University Chico, and others
- Deadline: October 3, 2025 (11:59 pm Western Indonesian Time, UTC +7)
- Programs/Themes: Civic Engagement, Natural Resources, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Society and Governance
- Value: Fully funded (including round-trip airfare, visa fees, accommodation, and stipend)
- Age Limit: 18–25 years (exceptions may apply)
- Eligibility: Citizens and residents of 11 Southeast Asian countries; full-time/part-time undergraduates or recent graduates (within 4 years); proficient in English
Perks of the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Academic Fellows Program
Participants enjoy several valuable perks during the five-week program:
- Full funding of round-trip airfare and travel expenses
- Visa fees are covered by the program
- Free accommodation and basic living stipend
- Access to top U.S. university facilities and faculty
- Community service and leadership training sessions
- Opportunities to network with U.S. and Southeast Asian leaders
- Cultural exchange activities and academic field experiences
Benefits of The Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Fellowship in the US
The program offers long-term benefits that impact participants’ education and careers:
- Academic advancement through intensive study in leadership and regional themes
- Career development by gaining real-world skills and international exposure
- Leadership growth by engaging in community service and practical projects
- Global network building with leaders across Southeast Asia and the U.S.
- Increased understanding of U.S.-Southeast Asia relations and cross-cultural collaboration
Moreover, participants become part of a lifelong network committed to regional development. As a result, they can apply new skills to benefit their communities and contribute to positive change in Southeast Asia.
Exclusions of the Academic Fellows Program in the US
While the program covers most expenses, some items are not included:
- Personal travel outside the program schedule is not permitted or funded
- Family or dependent travel costs are not covered
- Participants must maintain full attendance; no leave for personal matters is allowed
- Selected Fellows must apply for and receive a U.S. J-1 visa, though visa fees are covered
- The program does not cover participants who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or employees/immediate family of U.S. government
Eligibility Criteria of Fellowship Program in the USA 2025
General Eligibility
- Aged 18 to 25 by the application deadline (exceptions may apply for exceptional candidates over 25)
- Citizen and resident of one of the 11 eligible Southeast Asian countries
- Full-time or part-time undergraduate student or recent graduate (within 4 years)
- Proficient in English (reading, writing, speaking)
- Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Not employees or immediate family of U.S. government entities
- Eligible to receive a U.S. J-1 visa
Eligible Countries
- Brunei
- Cambodia
- Indonesia
- Laos
- Malaysia
- Myanmar
- Philippines
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Timor-Leste
- Vietnam
Important Dates of the Academic Fellows Program for Young Southeast Asain Leaders
- Application Deadline: October 3, 2025 (11:59 pm Western Indonesian Time, UTC +7)
- Program Dates: Spring 2026 (April–May) and Fall 2026 (September–October)
- Notification of Selection: To be announced after the application deadline
How to Apply to the Fellowship Program in the US 2025
Applying for the YSEALI PFP is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official application page at https://www.ysealiafp.org/apply
- Create an account on the Submittable application platform
- Complete the online application form carefully
- Upload all required documents and responses
- Submit your application before the deadline on October 3, 2025
Required Documents for the YSEALI Academic Fellows Program 2026
- Personal identification details (passport information when available)
- Proof of citizenship and residency
- Academic transcripts or proof of current enrollment or graduation
- Motivation letter or personal statement
- Resume or CV highlighting leadership and community service
- Proof of English proficiency (if required)
- Letters of recommendation (if requested)
For more information and to apply, visit the Fellowship Website.
