If you are looking for an international youth conference in 2027, the International Youth Leadership Dialogue in Manchester, UK (15 to 18 April 2027) is open to every nationality, ages 16 to 45, with funded seats awarded on merit and a deadline of 15 January 2027.
What makes a youth conference worth attending
Before you apply to any international youth conference, check four things:
- Who organises it and whether there is a real venue, real dates and a clear contact address.
- What funding actually covers. "Fully funded" should mean airfare, accommodation and meals, written down before you pay anything.
- What you will do. Workshops, simulations and presenting your own ideas teach far more than a week of listening to speeches.
- Visa support. An official invitation letter and clear guidance make the difference between attending and being refused.
IYLD 2027 publishes all of this openly: the venue is Revolution Manchester Deansgate Locks, Arch 7, Whitworth Street West, Manchester M1 5LH, every category lists what is included and excluded, and every confirmed delegate receives an invitation letter.
The programme
- Keynote addresses from diplomats, policy makers and founders
- Diplomatic dialogue sessions where delegates negotiate positions on real global issues
- Leadership workshops on public speaking, negotiation and policy writing
- Policy simulations and social entrepreneurship labs
- Cross cultural team challenges and networking forums
- Youth presentations, a certificate of participation and a guided tour of Manchester
Funding
- 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.
Costs
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 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
01Who 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.
02What is the deadline?
Applications close on 15 January 2027 at 11:59 PM GMT. Results are emailed on 10 February 2027.
03Do I need a visa?
Most delegates from Africa and Asia need a UK Standard Visitor visa, which costs £135 according to gov.uk and is usually decided within 3 weeks. Every confirmed delegate receives an official invitation letter and visa guidance.
04Is it free to apply?
Scholarship applications carry a £13.99 processing fee. Guaranteed places start at £299 for the Premium Access Pass.
05Is IYLD 2027 in person?
Yes. It is an in person conference in Manchester, United Kingdom.