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Become a YSEALI Academic Fellow!

YSEALI Academic Fellows Program applications open Monday, June 23rd, 2025! Application closes at 11:59 pm Myanmar Time (UTC +6.5) on July 21st, 2025.

Please recognize due to the large number of applicants we are unable to respond to emails inquiring about application status.

For technical questions or issues related to the Submittable application platform, please reach out to them directly here. For questions related to YSEALI AFP eligibility, program themes, or other programmatic topics, please email ysealiafp@umontana.edu.

This application period is for both the Spring and Fall cohorts of the 2026 YSEALI Academic Fellows Program. Please note that there will not be a later application for the Fall 2026 cohort. The program will be approximately five weeks, with Spring dates expected to be April-May and Fall dates expected to be September-October.

Commonly asked questions regarding the program and application process can be found on the FAQ page.

Eligibility requirements for applicants
  • Between the ages of 18 and 25 by the application deadline, although exceptional applicants over 25 may be considered if they meet all other eligibility requirements;
  • A citizen of one of the following countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam;
  • A resident of one of the following countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam;
  • A full-time or part-time undergraduate student from college, university, or other institutions of higher learning; or have graduated with their undergraduate degree in the past four years;
  • Proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English;
  • Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States;
  • Not employees or immediate family members of employees of the U.S. Government (including a U.S. embassy or consulate, USAID, or other U.S. Government entity);
  • Not alumni of the YSEALI Academic Fellows Program; and
    • Visa fees are paid by the program; there is no cost to those selected as Fellows.
Desired Qualifications

Successful applicants should: 

  • Demonstrate interest, knowledge, or professional experience in Civic Engagement; Natural Resources; Innovation and Entrepreneurship; or Society and Governance.  
  • Demonstrate strong leadership qualities and potential in their university, place of work, and/or community; 
  • Demonstrate a commitment or interest in community service, volunteerism, or mentorship; 
  • Indicate a serious interest in learning about the United States and Southeast Asia as a region;  
  • Be willing to actively participate in an intensive academic program, community service, and study tour; 
  • Have a commitment to return to their home country to apply leadership skills and training to benefit their community, country, or the region of Southeast Asia; and 
  • Have little or no prior study or travel experience in the United States. 

If you have questions about reasonable accommodations, eligibility, or any other topic please contact us at ysealiafp@umontana.edu.