Youth Leadership In China 2025 (YLC 2025)
Organized By China Institute In America
In Partnership With The China Education Association For International Exchange (CEAIE)
One World, Our Future
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Spearheaded by the China Institute in America in collaboration with the China Education Association for International Exchange (CEAIE), this enriching two-week study tour connects American high school students with their Chinese peers, creating opportunities for deep and meaningful dialogue.
Over the course of the program, participants will visit Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai, three iconic cities in China and explore the dynamic balance between the country’s rich historical heritage and modern advancements. They will engage with diverse cultural landscapes while building strong interpersonal relationships with Chinese students and their families. YLC 2025 serves as a platform for students to expand their worldviews, forge international friendships, and embrace their roles as future global leaders.
PROGRAM FEATURES
Youth Forum:
One World, Our Future
Throughout the program, participants will actively cultivate global competence and leadership skills through their participation in this Youth Forum organized by China Institute in America, CEAIE, and local schools. This forum, a cornerstone of the experience, facilitates dynamic dialogues and presentations, allowing participants to connect with their Chinese counterparts and provides the young generation of the U.S. and China a platform to share thoughts, voices, and ideas about their future.
Life In A Chinese
School And Home
During their visits to schools, students will have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the educational environment, fostering meaningful connections with their Chinese counterparts. Additionally, students can engage in substantive interactions with Chinese families during daytime homestay. This immersive experience not only enables students to gain a deep understanding of Chinese culture and life but also promotes the development of invaluable intercultural experiences that enhance communication skills.
Immersion in China’s
past and present
Embarking on a journey through the vibrant cities across China, students will uncover the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City, walk along the storied Great Wall in Beijing, stand face-to-face with the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, and experience the dynamic energy of Shanghai. Designed to keep students engaged at every step, this itinerary presents a blend of historical, environmental, and contemporary insights, creating lasting memories for the participants.
Watch the recap of our YLC 2024!
PROGRAM DETAILS
Program Dates: July 14 – 26, 2025 (in-country dates; subject to change)
Staff-to-Student Ratio: 1:5*
Program Fee: USD $1,600
Includes:
- All in-country activities, meals, materials, and transportation arranged by the program
- International travel insurance
Does NOT include:
- Visa fee (if applicable), International airfare.
* Staff includes teacher chaperones, China Institute staff, and local China-based staff members.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Currently enroll in 9 to 11 grades in a high school in the United States.
- Have a proven academic track record equivalent with a GPA of 3.5 (out of a total of 4) or above.
- Demonstrate the ability to interact with individuals of diverse cultural backgrounds and show leadership capability (experience in senior leadership positions in student-led organizations is a plus).
- Commit to preparing a project of interest for presentations, discussions, and dialogues with Chinese student counterparts as designated by the program.
- Show a willingness to deepen understanding of China and its culture while fostering mutual understanding and friendship between the U.S. and China.
- Hold American citizenship.
HOW TO APPLY
Required Documents:
- A completed application form
Application Form - A recommendation letter from the school (see detailed requirements)
- A description of your project for the Youth Forum (see detailed requirements)
Important Notes:
- Seats are limited. China Institute reserves the right to make final decisions.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: MONDAY, March 31, 2025 5:00 PM (ET)
(Limited spots are still available! Contact Zoe Jia at [email protected] for a possible application extension.)
Learn more about the program by joining a virtual information session:
5:00 pm ET, Tuesday, Feb 11
5:00 pm ET, Tuesday, Feb 18
5:00 pm ET, Tuesday, Feb 25
5:00 pm ET, Thursday, Mar 6
5:00 pm ET, Thursday, Mar 13
Welcome to schedule a dedicated session for your school or PTA!
Have a question? Please contact Associate Director of Education Zoe Jia, at [email protected], or call (212) 744-8181, ext. 136.
This program is made possible through the support of the China Education Association for International Education (CEAIE), East China Normal University, and generous supporters of China Institute in America.