Applications are now open for the Young Leaders Program 2026 in Vietnam, offering young professionals and emerging leaders the opportunity to attend the 18th South China Sea International Conference 2026 in Hanoi.
The fully funded program will take place from 6 to 8 October 2026 in Hanoi, Vietnam. Young leaders from around the world are invited to apply and participate in discussions on regional cooperation, geopolitics, maritime affairs, and policy solutions related to the South China Sea.
The theme of the 2026 conference is “Regional Cooperation and Next-Generation Solutions.” The program provides selected participants with an opportunity to exchange ideas with experts, connect with young leaders from different countries, and gain a deeper understanding of important regional and international issues.
The program is open to applicants from all nationalities. There is no application fee, and IELTS is not required. Only eight Young Leaders will be selected to attend the conference.
Young Leaders Program 2026 – Scholarship Summary
Program: Young Leaders Program 2026
Host Country: Vietnam
Host City: Hanoi
Conference: 18th South China Sea International Conference 2026
Dates: 6–8 October 2026
Theme: Regional Cooperation and Next-Generation Solutions
Funding: Fully Funded
Number of Young Leaders: 8
Eligible Nationalities: Applicants from all countries
Age Limit: 20–35 years
Language: English
IELTS: Not required
Application Fee: No application fee
Application Deadline: 13 September 2026
Application Method: Online
About the Young Leaders Program
The Young Leaders Program is designed to bring emerging leaders and young professionals into discussions surrounding important developments in the South China Sea region.
Participants will have the opportunity to engage with experts and other young leaders while exploring topics related to:
Regional cooperation
International relations
Geopolitics
Maritime affairs
International law
Regional security
Policy development
Next-generation solutions
International cooperation
The program encourages young people to contribute fresh perspectives and ideas to discussions about the future of the region.
Conference Theme
The theme for the 2026 program is:
“Regional Cooperation and Next-Generation Solutions.”
The conference will provide a platform for participants to discuss key developments and challenges affecting the South China Sea and explore potential policy options and cooperative solutions.
Financial Benefits
The Young Leaders Program 2026 is fully funded for the selected participants.
The organizers will provide:
Round-trip economy-class airfare
Three nights of accommodation
Local transportation in Vietnam
Meals during the program
Certificate of participation
The sponsorship is intended to cover the major costs associated with attending the conference in Hanoi.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Be between 20 and 35 years old at the beginning of the program.
Be a citizen of any country.
Be fluent in English.
Have an academic or professional background in political science, international relations, international law, social sciences, or a related field.
Demonstrate an interest in regional and international issues.
Be interested in South China Sea affairs, international cooperation, policy, diplomacy, or related subjects.
Be available to attend the conference in Hanoi from 6 to 8 October 2026.
Meet all requirements specified in the online application form.
Only eight Young Leaders will be selected for the program.
Who Should Apply?
The opportunity may be particularly suitable for:
University students
Recent graduates
Young professionals
Researchers
Young diplomats
International relations students
Political science students
Law students
Social science researchers
Youth leaders
Individuals interested in maritime affairs and regional cooperation
Applicants should demonstrate a genuine interest in the issues addressed by the conference and be able to contribute meaningful perspectives to discussions.
Is IELTS Required?
No, IELTS is not required to apply for the Young Leaders Program 2026.
However, applicants must be fluent in English because English will be used for communication and participation during the program.
Application Process
Interested candidates can apply online by following these steps:
Review the eligibility requirements carefully.
Prepare the information required for the application.
Access the official online application form.
Complete all required sections of the form.
Provide accurate information about your academic background, professional experience, and interests.
Review the application before submitting it.
Submit the completed application before the deadline.
The application must be submitted online. There is no application fee.
Official Call: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc-C0yCqit53DBZSZ4ByVjghL6IzgjzKi0tAQ0Sb25f1RZSrQ/viewformhttps://
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the Young Leaders Program 2026 in Vietnam is:
13 September 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline rather than waiting until the final day.
Program Dates and Location
The conference will be held in:
Hanoi, Vietnam
6–8 October 2026
Selected Young Leaders will participate in the 18th South China Sea International Conference and related activities during their stay.
Why Apply for the Young Leaders Program?
This program can provide participants with valuable international exposure and opportunities to:
Meet young leaders from different countries.
Exchange ideas with experts.
Learn about regional and maritime issues.
Develop international networks.
Gain experience participating in an international conference.
Improve communication and leadership skills.
Explore policy solutions to regional challenges.
Experience Vietnam and its international academic and policy community.
For students and young professionals interested in international relations, diplomacy, political science, international law, and regional affairs, the program can be a useful opportunity to expand their professional network.