Application Information

Become a YSEALI Academic Fellow!

The YSEALI Academic Fellows Program application is now open! The application closes on October 12, 2026 at 20:00 WIB.

Due to the large number of applicants, we are unable to respond to emails inquiring about application status.

For technical questions or issues related to the Submittable application platform, please reach out to them directly here. For questions related to YSEALI AFP eligibility or program, please email ysealiafp@umontana.edu. 

This application period is for both the Spring and Fall cohorts of the 2027 YSEALI Academic Fellows Program. Please note that there will not be a later application for the Fall 2027 cohort. The program will be approximately five weeks, with spring dates expected to be April 1 to May 5, 2027, and fall dates expected to be September 16 to October 20, 2027. 

Commonly asked questions regarding the program and application process can be found on the FAQ page.

A PDF of the application is available here. The linked application is for reference purposes only. Only applications on the Submittable platform will be considered.

Eligibility requirements for applicants

• Between the ages of 18 and 25 by the application deadline, although exceptional applicants over 25 may be considered if they meet all other eligibility requirements;
• A citizen of one of the following countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam;
  • Due to current visa restrictions, citizens of Burma and Laos will not be eligible to apply for the 2027 U.S.-based YSEALI Academic Fellows Program. This restriction is based on citizenship, not country of residence.
• A Resident of one of the following countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam;
  • To be considered a resident, the applicant must be physical residing in an ASEAN member state as of October 12, 2026, through the start of their selected Fellowship.
• A full-time or part-time undergraduate or graduate student from a college, university, or other institution of higher learning; or have graduated with their undergraduate degree in the last 4 years;
• Proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English;
• Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States;
• Not employees or immediate family members of employees of the U.S. Government;
• Not alumni of the YSEALI Academic Fellows; and
• Eligible to receive a U.S. J-1 visa.
  • Visa fees are paid by the program; there is no cost to those selected as Fellows.

Desired Qualifications

• Demonstrate interest, knowledge, or relevant academic, professional, or community experience related to one or more Fellowship themes; 
• Demonstrate strong leadership qualities, and potential in their university, workplace, or in their community;
• Express a serious interest in learning about the United States and developing relationships between the United States and South East Asia;
• Be willing and prepared to participate fully in an intensive academic program, community activities, and academic field experience;
• Have a commitment to return to their home country to apply leadership skills and training to benefit their community, the United States, and Southeast Asia; and
• Have little or no prior study or travel experience in the United States.

If you have questions about reasonable accommodations, eligibility, or any other topic please contact us at ysealiafp@umontana.edu.