Programs for the 2026 Istanbul Youth Summit in Turkey
Applications are being accepted for the 2026 Istanbul Youth Summit. One of the largest youth summits in the world is the IYS. The Youth Break the Boundaries (YBB) Foundation is in charge of organizing this summit. Young leaders from all across the world are being invited by the program to come together in Istanbul, Turkey, from February 9–12, 2026. It’s an opportunity to network with change agents, exchange new ideas, and contribute to the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN. 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 unique because it combines action and learning. Instead of merely listening, delegates collaborate in groups to create meaningful projects that address issues like health, education, economic development, peace, and climate change. The summit provides information and life-changing experiences in Istanbul, a city where East and West collide, and includes cozy lodging, daily meals, and cultural events.
Summary of Istanbul Youth Summit:
- Level of Study: N/A
- Institution(s): YBB (Youth Break the Boundaries).
- Study in: Turkey
- Deadline: 30 September 2025
- Funded: Fully funded
Also Apply: Program for UNESCO Writers in Residence in Granada 2025
Eligibility Criteria of Istanbul Youth Summit:
This Program requires the following qualification:
- All nationalities are welcome to apply.
- The ideal age range is 15–40 years old.
- Candidates may come from any academic or professional experience.
- No criminal history is required.
- It must not be connected to any violent or extreme organizations.
- There is no need for an English language certificate, TOEFL, or IELTS score.
Benefits of Istanbul Youth Summit:
This Program provides the following benefits:
- Get to know and establish connections with global youth leaders.
- Gain firsthand knowledge from international mentors and lecturers.
- Enter the Social Project Competition to share your thoughts.
- Discover Istanbul’s culture by participating in unique events and activities.
- Develop your communication, cooperation, and leadership abilities.
- Acknowledge yourself with accolades and certificates.
- Stay at a hotel that includes meals, transportation within the area, and help at the airport.
Types of IYS Pariticpants:
- A scholarship-based 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.
- 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 formal partnership is an arrangement in which two or more organizations commit to cooperating, exchanging resources, and advancing one another’s objectives.
- Self-Funded Participant: You cover the cost of your own airfare, lodging, meals, and program fee.
Selection Criteria of Istanbul Youth Summit:
- Strength and originality of the essay
- Academic and professional backgroun.
- Interview performance (for participants shortlisted for scholarship-based seats)
- Quality and completeness of the application form
How to Apply:
- Students must use the official website to apply.
- Sign up first.
- Your email account will get a registration email.
- After that, log into your account.
- Share the poster in at least 3 groups on WhatsApp or Facebook.
- Fill out the registration form for IYS.
- Name, birthdate, address, experiences, and other basic details should be provided.
- Write a paper on one of the topics provided.
- Use the provided Twibbon link to upload your own photo and share the poster for the Istanbul Youth Summit in 2026.
- Carefully fill out the application and send it in.
- Subscribe to the YBB YouTube channel and follow the Istanbul Youth Summit and Youth Break the Boundaries profiles on Instagram and TikTok.
- Post your Twibbon image to Instagram or Facebook. Make sure to name five friends and tag @istanbulyouthsummit.
- Take screenshots of these steps for registration.
- Complete every required field.
