This is a program of AFS International and is not administered by AFS-USA. AFS-USA is a separate legal entity from AFS Intercultural Programs/AFS International and is not a legal affiliate thereof.
AFS Youth Assembly Academies
Enriching program tracks that offer a comprehensive theme-based experience beyond the flagship conference with a series of seminars, organization site visits and exclusive special events to facilitate learning, connection, engagement and action beyond the conference.
Apply now
get empowered with the knowledge, skills and networks to impact the world
Enhance your AFS Youth Assembly experience
The AFS Youth Assembly is a platform where AFS Intercultural Programs brings together some of the foremost young leaders and social entrepreneurs from over 100 countries to learn, engage and take action to solve global challenges. Delegates who choose an Academy will:
- Conduct seminar-style activities,
- Participate in a live pitch where a winner will be selected,
- Experience first hand the work of global organizations through site visits, and
- Prepare action plans to address track-specific issues.
Choose an Academy to enhance your skills, gain new resources, and strengthen your action network
Why choose a Youth Assembly Academy?
Academies serve as an opportunity for particularly committed Delegates to enhance their learning, build skills and resources to impact their field, and strengthen their action network beyond the conference.
The youth of today are the largest generation in history. As they stand at the forefront to inherit and make a breakthrough for a better future, it is critical to provide young people with knowledge and understanding of the factors contributing to the world’s greatest problems. The Youth Assembly Academies introduce aspiring leaders into the world of international development and affairs through an exploration of key principles and practices across a wide range of global issues, as well as high-level exchange with important players in the field.
Participants will have the opportunity to visit local, national, and/or global institutions from various sectors, interact with their experts, and understand how these organizations implement the SDGs and their solutions to major world issues. In addition to joining hundreds of other young leaders and changemakers at The Youth Assembly, participants also attend specialized learning sessions to analyze issues, contribute ideas, and plan action-oriented solutions. Participants get access to special events to network and celebrate diversity and global citizenship.
Learning Objectives

Educate and Develop
Get the knowledge and skills necessary to address key sustainable development issues based on your specific ACADEMY

Connect and Engage
Join the dialogue and network with fellow Delegates, leading organizations, and experts in your chosen field

Act and Impact
Propose solutions and plans to drive action for sustainable development
“At the AFS Youth Assembly I got new ideas on how to help my community. I got to connect with people who are doing the same things I’m interested in and understand the UN Sustainable Development Goals way better than I did before the event. I am more ready to take action now and stop procrastinating.”
—Nadine Maselesele, 22 years old, South Africa
Academies fees

International Affairs
- Includes: This Academy + the AFS Youth Assembly conference
- Dates: August 6-10, 2025
- Double room – $2610
- Single room – $3110

Changemakers
- Includes: This Academy + the AFS Youth Assembly conference
- Dates: August 5-10, 2025
- Double room – $3610
- Single room – $4110

Climate Entrepreneurship
- Includes: This Academy + the AFS Youth Assembly conference
- Dates: August 6-10, 2025
- Double room – $3210
- Single room – $3710

United Nations Global Citizenship Training Academy
- Includes: This Academy + the AFS Youth Assembly conference
- Dates: July-August, 2025
- Double room – $4,995
Compare what’s included in different AFS Youth Assembly Academies:
Not Included:
- Round-trip flight arrangement
- Airport transfers
- Visa application and fees (if applicable)
- Travel/healthcare insurance
- Personal incidentals and expenses
- Transportation outside the programs
Conference-only fees
Early-bird rate: $350
Applies from November to December 31, 2024
Regular rate: $450
Applies from January 1, 2025 to May 31, 2025
Late rate: $550
Applies from June 1, 2025 to August 1, 2025
***Please note that all deadlines are until 11:59 pm EST on the stated date.
Please read the Terms and Conditions.