European Youth Summit 2026 in Switzerland ( Fully Funded )

European Youth Summit 2026 in Switzerland (Fully Funded): A Complete Guide to the Biggest Youth Event of the Year

The year 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most active years for international youth conferences, and at the center of all these opportunities stands one remarkable event: the European Youth Summit (EYS) 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland. Recognized as one of the largest and most influential youth summits in Europe, EYS brings together young leaders, innovators, policy enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and changemakers from all corners of the world for four transformative days of dialogue, diplomacy, skills-building, and global networking.

Hosted in Geneva, widely known as the diplomatic capital of the world and home to major international organizations, UN agencies, and global NGOs, the summit offers participants a rare chance to experience real-world multilateral engagement in one of the most prestigious environments in Europe. With its scenic lakes, historic institutions, and concentration of international missions, Geneva is the ideal setting for an event that aims to empower the next generation of leaders.

Applications for the 2026 edition are now officially open, and the organizing body—the Centre for Diplomatic Advancement (CDA)—has announced 250 scholarship positions, divided into fully funded, partially funded, and forum-access categories. Whether you are a student, professional, activist, or aspiring global leader, this summit is designed to elevate your skills, expand your worldview, and help you connect with an international community of rising talents.

This in-depth guide provides everything you need to know before applying, including scholarship types, benefits, application instructions, eligibility criteria, and what makes the European Youth Summit one of the most competitive and inspiring youth gatherings of the year.

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Overview of the European Youth Summit 2026

• Host Country: Switzerland

• City: Geneva

• Program Duration: 4 Days

• Summit Dates: 5 – 8 June 2026

• Scholarship Availability: Fully funded, partially funded, and forum-access seats

• Application Deadline: 10 March 2026

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What Is the European Youth Summit (EYS) and Why Is It Important?

The European Youth Summit is not just an ordinary conference—it is a global platform designed to empower motivated individuals through exposure to international diplomacy, policy dialogue, leadership training, and cross-cultural collaboration.

The 2026 edition will bring together participants from Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas. The summit’s central vision is to give ambitious young leaders the tools, mindset, and international exposure needed to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the global arena.

The event focuses on:

1. Diplomacy and Global Governance

Participants engage in discussions inspired by real-world policy challenges. Geneva, being home to major UN institutions, offers an unmatched environment for understanding global governance structures.

2. Leadership Development

Through workshops, mentorship sessions, and interactive training, participants strengthen their leadership, negotiation, communication, and project-management skills.

3. Cultural Exchange

The summit encourages meaningful cultural interaction and promotes mutual understanding among participants representing dozens of nationalities.

4. Networking With Global Institutions

Over 250 participants, speakers, diplomats, and trainers gather under one roof, creating opportunities for collaboration that may extend well beyond the four-day event.

5. Practical Exposure

One of the highlights of EYS is the United Nations guided tour, offering participants firsthand experience inside one of the world’s most influential institutions.

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Scholarship Categories for EYS 2026

The European Youth Summit offers three main scholarship categories. Each category provides different levels of financial support, allowing candidates with diverse backgrounds and needs to participate.

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1. Fully Funded Scholarships (50 Seats)

Only 50 candidates out of thousands of applicants will secure the prestigious Fully Funded Scholarship—making it one of the most competitive youth awards in Europe.

Benefits Included:

• Round-trip airfare support

• Full coverage of Swiss Embassy visa fees

• Shared accommodation throughout the summit

• Visa support documents for embassy processing

• Meals and daily breakfast

• Airport pick-up and drop-off

• Local city transportation

• United Nations guided tour

• Access to all summit sessions, workshops, and networking events

• Official participation certificate

• Summit merchandise and welcome kit

• Opportunity to speak as an international presenter

These fully funded benefits ensure that selected participants can attend the summit with minimal financial burden, making it accessible to talented youth regardless of their economic background.

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2. Partially Funded Scholarships (100 Seats)

Designed for applicants who demonstrate strong motivation and leadership potential but may not qualify for full financial coverage, this category helps reduce overall participation costs.

The partially funded package typically includes:

• Discounted accommodation

• Support with visa documentation

• Access to all summit events

• Meals and networking opportunities

• UN tour

• Official certification

This option allows many more participants to join without needing full sponsorship.

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3. Forum Access Category (100 Seats)

This is the most accessible option for participants who want to join the summit at low cost but still wish to benefit from the platform, activities, and mentorship.

Perks Included:

• Official invitation letter

• Visa support documents

• Summit meals

• United Nations tour

• Access to workshops and networking sessions

• Official certificate

• Summit merchandise

• Public speaking opportunity for selected candidates

This category targets individuals who may choose to cover their travel and accommodation expenses but still receive structured support from the organizers.

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Alternative Participation Options

For applicants who do not secure a scholarship, EYS provides two additional pathways:

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A. Invitation Letter Option

Participants can request an Official Invitation Letter, which helps strengthen their visa application and offers the following:

• Formal invitation to the summit

• Documentation support for the embassy

• Eligibility for package upgrades

• Email follow-up to the embassy requesting faster appointment scheduling

This option is especially useful for participants from regions with high visa-processing demand.

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B. Self-Financed Category

Ideal for applicants who want the full EYS experience without waiting for scholarship results.

Benefits Include:

• Accommodation

• Airport transfers

• Inter-city transport

• Meals and daily breakfast

• Visa support documents

• UN tour

• Full summit access

• Official certification

• Merchandise and speaking opportunities

Self-financed candidates enjoy the same program experience as funded participants, ensuring inclusivity and equal participation.

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Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

The summit maintains an inclusive and accessible selection policy. Candidates from any country in the world are welcome to apply.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Nationality: Open to all countries

• Age Requirement: 18–50 years

• Academic Requirements: No specific academic major or degree needed

• Required Experience: No prior professional experience necessary

• Backgrounds Accepted:

  • Students

  • Young professionals

  • Community activists

  • NGO members

  • Entrepreneurs

  • Researchers

  • Diplomacy and policy enthusiasts

The selection focuses primarily on motivation, leadership qualities, commitment to community engagement, and the applicant’s potential to contribute positively to the summit discussions.

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Why Should You Apply for EYS 2026?

Here are some of the reasons why thousands of young leaders worldwide consider this summit a life-changing opportunity:

1. Meet Diplomats, Experts, and Global Leaders

Geneva hosts some of the world’s most influential international organizations. Participants will learn directly from diplomats, policymakers, and renowned experts.

2. Build an International Network

With attendees from various continents, the summit creates connections that often evolve into long-term partnerships, friendships, or project collaborations.

3. Strengthen Your Resume

Participation in an international summit in Switzerland, especially one hosted by a diplomatic center, significantly enhances your academic and professional profile.

4. Develop Leadership and Public Speaking Skills

The program includes speaking opportunities, leadership labs, interactive training modules, and policy dialogues.

5. Experience Swiss Culture

Beyond the workshops, participants will get to explore Geneva’s historic landmarks, cultural settings, and picturesque landscapes.

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How to Apply for the European Youth Summit 2026

The application process is fully online and designed to be simple and accessible.

Step-by-Step Application Guide:

1. Visit the official application page on the CDA website.

2. Create an account on the application portal.

3. Fill out your personal and academic information.

4. Upload required documents (if any).

5. Write your motivation statements or short essays (if requested).

6. Pay the non-refundable application fee.

7. Submit your application before the deadline.

8. Wait for the official email confirmation and scholarship results.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute delays.

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Tips to Strengthen Your Application

To increase your chances of obtaining a fully funded or partially funded spot, consider:

• Writing a compelling motivation letter that highlights your goals and community impact.

• Demonstrating leadership roles or volunteer work you’ve done previously.

• Showing why you are passionate about diplomacy, youth activism, or policy development.

• Applying as early as possible—timeliness signals seriousness and professionalism.

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Final Thoughts

The European Youth Summit 2026 in Switzerland is more than a conference—it is a global community of changemakers coming together to shape the future. Whether you aim to accelerate your career, participate in high-level discussions, or simply expand your worldview, EYS offers everything you need to grow personally and professionally.

With its fully funded scholarships, inclusive eligibility criteria, and exceptional networking opportunities, the summit stands out as one of the most desirable international youth events of the year.

If you are ready to elevate your leadership journey and join an international gathering in one of the world’s most influential diplomatic cities, then the European Youth Summit 2026 is the perfect opportunity for you.

APPLY FOR THE EUROPEAN YOUTH SUMMIT SWITZERLAND