Applications for the 2026 Istanbul Youth Summit are now being accepted. One of the largest youth summits in the world is the IYS. The Youth Break the Boundaries (YBB) Foundation is organizing this summit. Young leaders from all over the world are being invited by the program to meet in Istanbul, Turkey, from February 9–12, 2026. It’s an opportunity to promote the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN, network with change makers, and exchange new ideas.
The International Social Project Competition is one of the summit’s most fascinating features. Here, participants will present original ideas that tackle pressing issues in their local communities. Beyond the competition, the youth forum includes panel talks, leadership workshops, cultural evenings, and global networking sessions, making it a well-rounded experience for every delegate. By attending, participants not only build skills but also friendships and professional networks that last a lifetime. IYS 2026 is special because it blends study and action. Delegates work in groups to build meaningful projects that tackle topics like health, education, economic development, peace, and climate change rather than just listening. With comfortable accommodations, daily meals, and cultural events, the summit offers knowledge and transformative experiences in Istanbul, a city where East and West meet.
Brief Details About Programs for Turkey’s 2026 Istanbul Youth Summit:
- Institution(s): YBB (Youth Break the Boundaries).
- Level of Study: N/A
- Study in: Turkey
- Deadline: 30 September 2025
- Funded: Fully funded
Eligibility Criteria:
- There is no need for an English language certificate, TOEFL, or IELTS score.
- Candidates may come from any academic or professional experience.
- All nationalities are welcome to apply.
- It must not be connected to any violent or extreme organizations.
- No criminal history is required.
- The ideal age range is 15–40 years old.
Benefits:
- Learn about and build relationships with young leaders around the world.
- Learn firsthand from lecturers and mentors from around the world.
- To express your opinions, enter the Social Project Competition.
- Take part in special events and activities to learn about Istanbul’s culture.
- Improve your teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.
- Give yourself recognition by receiving awards and certifications.
- Choose a hotel that offers meals, local transportation, and assistance at the airport.
IYS Participant Types:
- Outreach Partner: Institutions, organizations, or youth groups that collaborate with the summit to disseminate information. They might receive lower prices, member-only seating, or the opportunity to have their logo or brand displayed at the event in exchange.
- A scholarship-funded participant is chosen through a competitive process and is required to have a minimum budget of USD 500. The scholarship covers the majority of costs, including program fees, lodging, meals, and airfare.
- Ambassadors are those who use social media to advertise the summit or extend invitations to others. Ambassadors may be eligible for free admission, exclusive benefits, or discounts.
- Self-Funded Participant: You cover the cost of your own airfare, lodging, meals, and program fee.
- A formal partnership is an arrangement in which two or more organizations commit to cooperating, exchanging resources, and advancing one another’s objectives.
Selection Criteria:
- The essay’s uniqueness and strength
- professional and academic backgrounds.
- Performance during the interview (for participants shortlisted for admissions based on scholarships)
- The application form’s thoroughness and quality
How to Put Yourself Forward:
- Students must apply via the official website.
- First, register.
- A registration email will be sent to your email address.
- Next, sign in to your account.
- Take screenshots of these steps for registration.
- Distribute the poster across a minimum of three Facebook or WhatsApp groups.
- Complete the IYS registration form.
- Share the poster for the 2026 Istanbul Youth Summit by uploading your own photo using the provided Twibbon link.
- Fill out the application carefully, then submit it.
- Follow the Istanbul Youth Summit and Youth Break the Boundaries accounts on Instagram and TikTok, and subscribe to the YBB YouTube channel.
- Post your Twibbon image to Instagram or Facebook. Make sure to name five friends and tag @istanbulyouthsummit.
- Complete every required field.
- You should include your name, birthdate, address, experiences, and other pertinent information.
- Compose a paper on any of the given subjects.
