IYLD 2027 offers 30 Fully Funded seats covering return airfare, a shared 4 star hotel and meals, plus 40 Partially Funded seats covering everything except airfare, for its international leadership conference in Manchester, UK, from 15 to 18 April 2027.
What fully funded means at IYLD
The phrase "fully funded" is used loosely online. At IYLD 2027 it means the following, in writing, before you apply:
- Fully Funded (30 seats): return airfare, shared 4 star hotel, meals during the forum, invitation letter, embassy support, full programme access, a speaking opportunity, delegate kit and certificate.
- Partially Funded (40 seats): everything above except airfare.
Airport transfers and personal spending are not included, and the UK visa fee (£135 according to gov.uk) is paid by the delegate.
How funded seats are awarded
Funded seats are awarded on merit by a selection panel. The panel looks at your motivation, what you have done in your community, school or work, and what you would bring back from the summit. You do not need previous conference experience, a perfect academic record or an English test.
Tips for a strong application: be specific about one thing you have actually done, explain what you want to learn in Manchester, and say how you will use it at home.
The application fee
Scholarship applications (Fully Funded and Partially Funded) carry a £13.99 application processing fee, which pays for assessment by the selection panel. If you would rather have a confirmed place than compete for a funded one, the Premium Access Pass (£299) and Self Funded package (£799, with shared 4 star accommodation) guarantee your seat straight away. Every category lists exactly what is and is not included before you pay.
How to spot a genuine fully funded conference
- The benefits are listed clearly, including what is not covered.
- There is a real venue address and fixed dates.
- The organiser gives a working contact email and published terms and refund policy.
- Results are announced on a fixed date.
You can check all of these for IYLD on this site: see the terms, refund policy and contact page.
How to apply
- Choose your category on the IYLD 2027 page.
- Complete the online application. It takes about 10 minutes and there is no essay word minimum.
- Pay the fee securely by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay.
- Scholarship results are emailed on 10 February 2027. Guaranteed passes are confirmed straight away.
Frequently asked questions
01What does Fully Funded cover?
Return airfare, shared 4 star accommodation, meals during the forum, an official invitation letter, embassy support, full programme access, a delegate kit and a certificate of participation. There are 30 Fully Funded seats.
02Is the visa fee covered?
No. The UK visa fee is paid by the delegate. Every confirmed delegate receives an official invitation letter and visa guidance.
03Is it free to apply?
Scholarship applications carry a £13.99 processing fee. Guaranteed places start at £299 for the Premium Access Pass.
04What is the deadline?
Applications close on 15 January 2027 at 11:59 PM GMT. Results are emailed on 10 February 2027.
05Who can apply?
Anyone aged 16 to 45, of any nationality and any academic or professional background. No IELTS or TOEFL is required, but you should be comfortable taking part in discussions in English.