Call for applications for the Istanbul Youth Summit 2026. The IYS is one of the biggest youth summits in the world. This summit is organized by the Youth Break the Boundaries (YBB) Foundation. The program is inviting young leaders from across the globe to gather in Istanbul, Türkiye, from February 9–12, 2026. It’s a chance to share fresh ideas, connect with change makers, and play a role in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
One of the most exciting parts of the summit is the International Social Project Competition. Here, participants will showcase creative solutions that address real challenges in their 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.
What sets IYS 2026 apart is its mix of learning and action. Delegates don’t just listen, they work together in teams to design impactful projects focused on areas like education, health, climate action, economic growth, and peace. With comfortable accommodation, daily meals, and cultural activities included, the summit offers both knowledge and unforgettable experiences in Istanbul, a city where East meets West.
Istanbul Youth Summit in Turkey 2026:
Host Country:
- Turkey/Turkiye.
Host Organization:
- YBB (Youth Break the Boundaries).
IYS 2026 Dates & Duration:
- 3-4 Days (February 9 – 12, 2026)
IYS Programs:
- International Innovation Competition
- International Youth Summit
- Intercultural Exploration
- Leadership Training
- Global Network
- Culture and Awards Night
Theme & Sub-Themes
- Main Theme: From Vision to Action: Empowering Youth for Lasting Global Impact
- Sub-Themes:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 4: Quality Education
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Benefits of the Istanbul Youth Summit 2025 in Turkey:
- Meet and connect with young leaders from around the world
- Learn directly from global speakers and mentors
- Share your ideas in the Social Project Competition
- Experience Istanbul’s culture through special events and activities
- Build leadership, teamwork, and communication skills
- Get recognized with certificates and awards
- Stay in a hotel with meals, local transport, and airport assistance included.
IYS Pariticpant Types:
- Funded Participant (Scholarship based): Selected through a competitive process; covers most expenses (program fee, accommodation, meals, airfare) but requires a minimum budget of USD 500.
- Ambassador: People who promote the summit on social media or invite others to join. Ambassadors can receive discounts, special perks, or even a chance to attend for free.
- Outreach Partner: Youth groups, organizations, or institutions that work with the summit to spread the word. In return, they may get reserved seats for members, discounted fees, or their logo/brand shown at the event.
- Partner: A formal collaboration where two or more organizations agree to work together, share resources, and support each other’s goals.
- Self-Funded Participant: You pay for your own program fee, hotel, meals, and flight tickets.
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Eligibility Criteria of the Istanbul Youth Summit 2025 in Turkey:
- Open to applicants from all nationalities
- Age should be between 15 to 40 years
- Applicants from all academic and professional backgrounds can apply
- Must have no criminal record
- Must not be affiliated with any extremist or violent group
- No IELTS, TOEFL, or English language certificate is required
- For more information and guidance please visit https://bit.ly/guidelinesiys26
How to Apply for the Istanbul Youth Summit 2026 in Turkey:
Before applying do read the official guidelines for the IYS 2026 Turkey. Follow the following step to apply for this international youth summit
- Students have to apply through the official website.
- First, sign up.
- A registration email will be sent to your email account.
- Then, sign in to your account.
- Complete the IYS registration form.
- Provide basic information, including name, birth date, address, experiences, and others.
- Write an essay on one of the given themes.
- Share the Istanbul Youth Summit 2026 poster and upload your self-photo using the Twibbon link provided.
- Fill in all the required fields.
- Complete your application form carefully and submit it.
- Follow the Instagram and TikTok accounts of Istanbul Youth Summit and Youth Break the Boundaries, and subscribe to the YBB YouTube channel.
- Share your Twibbon photo on Facebook or Instagram. Tag @istanbulyouthsummit and mention 5 friends.
- Share the poster in at least 3 groups on WhatsApp or Facebook.
- Take screenshots of these steps for registration.
Selection Criteria for the Youth Break the Boundaries Summit:
Your application will be evaluated based on:
- Academic and professional backgroun.
- Quality and completeness of the application form
- Strength and originality of the essay
- Interview performance (for participants shortlisted for scholarship-based seats)
Istanbul Youth Summit Deadline Extended:
- The application deadline for the YBB conference is September 30, 2025
