European Youth Summit 2026 in Switzerland ( Fully Funded )

If you dream of participating in a global youth event in the heart of Europe and visiting Geneva—the diplomatic capital of the world—within a fully funded program that strengthens your CV and international network, then the European Youth Summit 2026 in Switzerland (European Youth Summit – EYS 2026) is an opportunity you should not miss.

The summit will be held in Geneva, Switzerland, from 5 to 8 June 2026, and offers a total of 250 participation scholarships distributed across fully funded seats, partially funded seats, and forum-access-only seats. The event is organized by the Centre for Diplomatic Advancement (CDA).

In this practical guide, you will find:

• An overview of the European Youth Summit 2026 in Switzerland.
• Scholarship details (fully funded, partially funded, and forum access).
• Benefits and funding and what is actually covered.
• The self-financing option and invitation letter.
• Eligibility criteria and target groups.
• Step-by-step application process via the official website.
• Strong tips to increase your chances of acceptance in fully funded categories.

You can also check out the Future of Action Summit – Australia (FAS)

Details About the European Youth Summit 2026 in Switzerland

• Event Name (English): European Youth Summit 2026 (EYS 2026)

• Host Country: Switzerland

• City: Geneva

• Duration: 4 days

• Dates: 5–8 June 2026

• Organizer: Centre for Diplomatic Advancement (CDA)

• Total Seats & Scholarships: 250 opportunities divided into:

  • 50 Fully Funded seats

  • 100 Partially Funded seats

  • 100 Forum Access seats

• Application Deadline: 10 March 2026

This summit is considered one of the most prominent international youth events of 2026, focusing on leadership, diplomacy, European and global cooperation, and intercultural dialogue.

For regular updates on scholarships and academic opportunities, follow our official platforms:

Why Is the European Youth Summit in Geneva a Rare Opportunity?

1. A Youth Summit in the Global Capital of Diplomacy

Geneva hosts dozens of international organizations and diplomatic missions, including United Nations offices, human rights organizations, and humanitarian agencies. Attending a summit in this city offers you:

• Direct exposure to a city where global political and diplomatic affairs are managed.

• The opportunity to visit UN headquarters as part of the summit program (such as the UN tour included among the benefits).

2. Strong Funding Program Suitable for Youth from Diverse Backgrounds

The availability of fully funded and partially funded seats opens doors for young people who cannot afford to travel to Switzerland. Fully funded scholarships cover most travel, accommodation, visa, and meals, while other categories help reduce costs and sometimes include accommodation, meals, and visa support.

3. A Diverse Global Network

The summit targets youth from Europe and all around the world, which means:

• Meeting students, professionals, activists, entrepreneurs, and researchers from different continents.

• Opportunities to build partnerships, joint projects, or future initiatives.

4. A Certificate and Experience You Can Leverage for Scholarships, Studies, and Jobs

Participants receive an official certificate from the summit, along with documented participation in a four-day international leadership program, which strengthens:

• Scholarship applications.

• International internship or fellowship applications.

• Your profile when applying for jobs in diplomacy, international relations, development, and international organizations.

You can also check out the Middle East Youth Summit – Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Number of Scholarships and Funding Categories at the European Youth Summit

According to the published details for EYS 2026, the 250 seats are distributed as follows:

• 50 Fully Funded Scholarships

• 100 Partially Funded Scholarships

• 100 Forum Access seats

This structure expands participation beyond a limited number of fully funded seats to include a middle tier (partial funding) and a third tier for those who can attend with self-financing while benefiting from summit facilities.

Benefits Included in the Fully Funded Scholarship

The Fully Funded Delegate category is the most attractive, as it significantly reduces travel burdens. Benefits, as stated by partner platforms, usually include:

• Round-trip Airfare Support: Coverage of travel tickets from your country to Geneva and back, or a dedicated travel stipend according to organizer policy.

• Swiss Embassy Visa Fee Coverage: Payment or reimbursement of visa fees required for a Schengen visa, according to summit terms.

• Shared Accommodation: Hotel or hostel accommodation for the full summit duration (4 days), with shared rooms.

• Visa Support Documents: Official invitation letter and organizer letters detailing event participation to strengthen your visa application.

• Summit Meals & Daily Breakfast: Main meals during summit days and daily breakfast at accommodation or venue.

• Airport Transfers: Pick-up from Geneva airport (or designated airport) and return transfer after the summit.

• Local / Inter-City Transport: Transportation to summit venues or official tour sites (e.g., UN headquarters).

• UN Guided Tour: A guided visit to a UN office in Geneva to learn about international organizations and negotiation processes.

• Full Access to Summit & Networking Sessions: Participation in plenary sessions, specialized dialogues, and networking events.

• Official Certification: A participation certificate, usually signed or stamped by CDA.

• Summit Merchandise: Summit bag, notebook, pen, ID badge, and possibly a T-shirt or symbolic gifts.

• Opportunity to Be an International Speaker: In some cases, selected fully funded participants may deliver a short speech or share experiences during sessions.

Forum Access Category Benefits

Not all applicants receive full funding, but the Forum Access category allows attendance with key benefits, including:

• Invitation letter

• Visa support documents

• Summit meals on designated days

• UN tour

• Access to summit and networking sessions

• Official certificate

• Summit merchandise

• Speaking opportunity in some sessions or activities

In this category, airfare or full accommodation may not be covered, but you still gain a substantial educational, leadership, and networking experience.

You can also check out the World Leaders Convention in Belgium

Self-Funding Option and Invitation Letter

1. Invitation Letter Option

If you do not receive a fully or partially funded scholarship, some platforms indicate an option to obtain an official invitation letter through the CDA website, including:

• A personalized official invitation letter.

• An official summit letter explaining the purpose of participation.

• Visa documentation support.

• In some cases, an email to the embassy requesting an expedited appointment (if available).

This option suits those who can cover travel and accommodation costs but need formal documentation for visa purposes.

You may also check the Leadership & Techplomacy Summit in Dubai.

2. Self-Financed Category

This category is designed for those who can cover their costs while maintaining a comprehensive experience, usually including:

• Accommodation during the summit.

• Visa support documents.

• Summit meals and daily breakfast.

• Airport transfers.

• Transport to tour sites (e.g., UN).

• Full access to summit and networking sessions.

• Official certificate and summit merchandise.

• Possibility of a public speaking opportunity.

This flexibility ensures that applicants who do not secure full funding can still join the program.

Eligibility Criteria for the European Youth Summit 2026 in Switzerland

According to published eligibility details:

• Nationality: Open to candidates from Europe and all countries worldwide, including Arab, developing, and developed nations.

• Age Range: 18 to 50 years.

This wide range allows participation from university students, recent graduates, and professionals at early or mid-career stages.

• Academic Qualification: No specific academic degree or field required.
  Applicants from all disciplines, including bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD holders, may apply.

Accepted Backgrounds:

• Students and young professionals.

• Social activists and NGO members.

• Entrepreneurs and researchers.

• Individuals interested in politics, international relations, and diplomacy.

• Previous Experience: No extensive professional or volunteer experience required; demonstrating genuine interest in global issues and positive impact is sufficient.

• Language: English is the primary working language. You should be able to communicate and discuss effectively in English, even without an official language certificate.

You can also check out the International Youth Conference in Azerbaijan

Summit Objectives and Themes

Partner platforms describe the European Youth Summit as a high-level international youth gathering aiming to:

• Empower youth through diplomacy, dialogue, and international cooperation.

• Enhance leadership and decision-making skills.

• Provide a safe space to discuss European and global challenges such as:

  • Peace and security

  • European cooperation and cross-border relations

  • Economic and social challenges

  • Youth roles in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

During the summit, participants are expected to engage in:

• Plenary sessions on youth roles in public policy and public diplomacy.

• Roundtable discussions on migration, climate change, digital economy, and youth political participation.

• Skill-building workshops (presentation, negotiation, collaborative leadership, community project management).

Application Steps for the European Youth Summit in Switzerland

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Access the official CDA website where the summit page or application link is available.

Step 2: Review Summit Details and Eligibility

Before starting the form, carefully read eligibility criteria and available categories (Fully Funded / Partially Funded / Forum Access / Self-Financed).

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Typically required documents include:

• Updated CV (1–2 pages).

• Copy of a valid passport.

• Official personal photograph.

• Professional profile links (e.g., LinkedIn), if available.

• Answers to motivation questions within the application form.

Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form

The form usually includes:

• Personal details (name, date of birth, nationality, country).

• Contact details (email, phone number).

• Educational / professional background.

• Category selection.

• Motivation questions such as:

  • What global issues interest you?

  • How do you contribute to your local community?

  • Why do you want to attend the European Youth Summit in Geneva?

  • How will you apply what you learn after returning home?

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee (if applicable)

Payment is typically made via a secure online payment gateway. Keep a payment receipt or screenshot.

Step 6: Review Your Application Before Submission

Ensure:

• Correct email and contact details.

• All required fields are completed.

• Uploaded files are clear and properly named.

Step 7: Submit Before the Deadline

Deadline: 10 March 2026. Apply early to avoid technical issues.

Step 8: Monitor Your Email

You will receive emails regarding:

• Application receipt confirmation.

• Evaluation results (accepted / rejected / waitlisted).

• If accepted: further visa, travel, and accommodation details.

You can also check out the HSC Youth Ambassadors Program in Germany

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Fully Funded Acceptance

1. Demonstrate Real Community Impact
   Mention concrete examples: volunteer initiatives, student projects, awareness campaigns, club participation.

2. Align Your Experience with Summit Themes
   Show interest in diplomacy, international relations, leadership, and global issues. Emphasize how you can contribute, not just benefit.

3. Write Original, Authentic Motivation Answers
   Avoid copying content; organizers can identify repetitive responses. Be clear, honest, and concise.

4. Present a Clear Post-Summit Plan
   Such as organizing a campus session, producing digital content, or launching a small initiative inspired by the summit.

5. Submit a Complete, Organized Application
   Professional CV, official email, clearly named files.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the European Youth Summit 2026 in Switzerland fully funded?
There are 250 total seats: 50 fully funded, 100 partially funded, and 100 forum access seats, with self-funding and invitation letter options.

2. Who can apply?
Applicants from all countries aged approximately 18–50, without specific academic requirements, with clear interest in leadership, diplomacy, and community engagement.

3. Does paying the application fee guarantee acceptance?
No. Fees (if applicable) cover application review; acceptance depends on evaluation and competition.

4. What is the working language?
English is the primary language; effective participation requires good English communication skills.

5. Can applicants from Arab countries apply?
Yes, the summit is open to all nationalities, including Arab countries.

Official Summit Links

• Apply now for full funding
• Apply now for forum access
• Obtain an invitation letter from the CDA website
• Explore the self-funded participation package
• Official website

For regular updates on scholarships and academic opportunities, follow our official platforms: