When is the deadline to submit the application?

The deadline to apply for the event is July 15th, 2026.

When will I be informed of the decision of my application?

Results will be announced on July 15th, 2026. Final confirmation of delegates will be required by July 22, 2026.

When will I be informed about the decision of my application for the Virtual Category?

Results for all categories will be announced on July 15, 2026.

Is the Virtual Participation Category fee refundable under any circumstances?

The registration fee is strictly non-refundable under any circumstances. However, in case of unforeseen situations, applicants must notify the organization at least one month prior to the event with valid supporting evidence. In such cases, the organization may issue a future events voucher equivalent to the amount paid, which can be used for any of our or affiliated partner events within 12 months.

How do I pay the Virtual Participation Category fee?

Three payment methods are available in the Fee section. Applicants may choose the option that is most convenient and practical for them.

Do I need a passport to apply for the Virtual Participation Category?

Since this is a virtual participation format, applicants are required to verify their identity. If a passport is not available, applicants may submit a valid national ID for verification purposes.

How many seats are available for the Virtual Participation Category?

There will be up to 50 seats available for the Virtual Participation Category. Placement of applicants into this category is at the discretion of the Youth Diplomatic Academy Selection Committee and is based on the defined selection criteria.

How do I pay the Direct Forum Access Category application fee?

Three payment methods are available in the Fee Section, including payment via Debit/Credit Card and PayPal. Applicants may choose the method that is most practical and convenient for them. If you are unable to use any of the available payment methods, please contact our team for assistance through the provided email address.

What is the fee for the Direct Forum Access Category? Is the application fee refundable? What if my Visa is refused?

The application processing fee is only €249. The fee is non-refundable and non-transferable under any circumstances and applies to all defined categories. In case of visa refusal, applicants may receive a full-value voucher for future events upon submission of valid evidence. The voucher will be valid for one year from the date of issuance and may be used for any YDA or affiliated entity event.

What are the benefits of the Direct Forum Access Category?

Direct Forum Access is a self-funded category for applicants who wish to secure their participation without going through the funded selection process or competition. Participants in this category can directly register for the forum and will receive: Certificate Meals (2 Lunches) Event Merchandise Speaking Opportunities Free YDA Membership

How many seats are available for the Direct Forum Access Category?

There will be 80 seats available for the Direct Forum Access Category. Placement of applicants in this category is at the discretion of the Youth Diplomatic Academy Selection Committee and is based on the applicant’s profile, social experience, and leadership potential. Applications will be reviewed, and if approved, applicants will receive a confirmation email along with the invitation letter and forum agenda.

Will YDA provide visa services?

YDA will only provide an Invitation letter for visa application support and does not guarantee visa to any category of delegates.

What are the Selection Criteria?

Applicants are evaluated through a holistic review process based on applicants’ leadership potential, diplomatic interest, policy engagement, communication and representation skills, cross-cultural engagement, academic or professional relevance, and future vision. The Selection Committee carefully reviews each application and assigns the most suitable participation category accordingly.

What is the expected weather at the time of the program in Paris?

September in Paris brings mild, pleasant, and often sunny weather with average temperatures ranging from around 13°C to 24°C (55°F–77°F).

Is it possible to update my application once it is submitted?

Due to the high volume of applications, we recommend applicants submit an application to the best of their abilities. Applications cannot be edited after submission.

What if PayPal is not available in my country?

Please contact our team at forum@youthdiplomaticacademy.org, inform them about the issue, and they will guide you regarding alternative secure payment options.

How do I pay the application fee?

Three methods for the application fees are given in the Fee section. You can pick the most feasible and most practical method for you.

What if I do not have a passport?

It is highly recommended that all applicants hold a valid passport in order to travel. However, you can apply by attaching your national ID to the passport section and purchasing a passport until the results are announced. Your privacy is our top priority. These details will be safe and secure with the organization.

What are the requirements after selection in the Funded category?

After selection in the Funded category, delegates are required to participate in the announcement process by allowing their selection posters to be shared on official social media platforms. In addition, they must record an excitement video, which will be uploaded on the organization’s official social channels. Detailed guidelines will be shared by the YDA team with the selected delegates. Additionally, the organization may request participants to engage in community-based activities as part of their contribution to creating positive social impact during the flight ticket reimbursement process.

If I am selected in the Fully Funded category, how will the air ticket booking process work?

Applicants selected for the Fully Funded category will receive an official confirmation email outlining their selection status along with a flight reference, including the approved airfare amount based on their country of residence. Delegates will be required to book their flights within the provided budget reference and will be reimbursed after the completion of the program.

What if I am not selected for the Fully or Partially Funded category?

If you are not selected for a funded opportunity, you will still have the opportunity to join the forum through the self-funded category. Further details regarding the self-funded category will be shared when the results are announced.

Why do we charge an application fee of €22.75 for a funded opportunity?

The €22.75 application fee is charged to support the administrative and operational processes involved in reviewing and managing applications for the forum. As a youth-led organization, we do not solely rely on external funding or sponsorships to operate our programs. The fee helps us cover essential operational expenses, including application processing, evaluation, communication, technical systems, outreach, and participant support. Additionally, the application fee helps ensure serious and committed applicants. Since the funded categories provide significant benefits and financial support opportunities, the minor application fee demonstrates an applicant’s genuine interest and commitment to the program.

What is the application fee for the funded category? Is the application fee refundable?

The application processing fee for the funded category is €22.75. The fee is refundable only if the applicant is selected in the funded category. Please note that the application fee is non-refundable and non-transferable if the applicant is selected for the self-funded category or is not selected for the program.

How many seats are available for the program?

There is a total of 70 funded seats, divided into two categories: 30 Fully Funded seats 40 Partially Funded seats The allocation of applicants into these categories is at the discretion of the Youth Diplomatic Academy Selection Committee and is based on the defined selection criteria, ensuring each applicant meets the required standards.