High School Achievers

 
The High School Achievers (HSA) program is a highly selective leadership experience designed to support India’s brightest students in becoming the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow.
 
This intensive, week-long summer bootcamp for students in grades 9 to 12 helps participants discover their unique potential, sharpen critical thinking skills, and build the tools needed to drive meaningful change. Through a mix of hands-on activities, engaging debates, and immersive discussions, students explore questions of identity, privilege, and social impact, while being encouraged to engage with diverse perspectives across disciplines such as philosophy, political science, sociology, and economics.
 
What sets HSA apart is its focus on real-world problem-solving. Students don’t just learn theory—they acquire the skills necessary to tackle complex issues in today’s interconnected world. As a platform for youth who are eager to make a difference, HSA prepares students to think critically and act decisively. By engaging professionals and mentors, it also opens the door to impactful and meaningful careers.
 
Applications to the 2026 editions of the program have now closed. This year, HSA will run in Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kolkata, with the Delhi edition being held in partnership with the Indian School of Public Policy (ISPP).
 
For updates on future editions, you may refer to our tentative calendar, sign up below, or follow us on social media (LinkedIn, Instagram).
 
See:   Cities   |   Schedule   |   Selection Process & Deadlines   |   Fees & Scholarships   |   Previous Editions   |   Eligibility & FAQs
 


 

2026 Editions

 

Bengaluru

3rd May – 10th May

Venue: TERI Auditorium Domlur

Kolkata

31st May – 7th Jun

Venue: Openhouse, Salt Lake

Delhi

7th Jun – 14th Jun

Venue: ISPP campus in Hauz Khas

 


 

Detailed Schedule

Identity and Privilege

Sunday Day 1



Time: 10 am to 5 pm

Who are you? How have your personal experiences shaped the way you perceive the world? Do you recognize your privileges?

Equality and Justice

Monday Day 2



Time: 10 am to 5 pm

Why are there so many disparities around us? What should a ‘just’ society entail?

Field Visit

Tuesday Day 3



Time: 10 am to 2 pm

Democracy, Constitution and the Government

Wednesday Day 4



Time: 10 am to 5 pm

Why did humans get together to form the government? What role does it play in shaping society and how can you engage with it?

Break

Thursday Day 5

Tools of Advocacy

Friday Day 6



Time: 10 am to 5 pm

What can you do to make other people care? How should you build support for your cause?

Businesses and Social Good

Saturday Day 7


Time: 10 am to 5 pm

Do businesses only make profit? How do businesses move the society forward?

Group dynamics & Leadership | Closing

Sunday Day 8



Time: 10 am to 5 pm

Why do some teams deliver and others don’t? How can you channelize your energy to lead change?

See:   Cities   |   Schedule   |   Selection Process & Deadlines   |   Fees & Scholarships   |   Previous Editions   |   Eligibility & FAQs
 


 

Selection Process & Deadlines


 
For the High School Achievers program, we look for talented and passionate students who wish to change the world around them. There are no prerequisites in terms of fields of study.
 

The selection process constitutes two rounds:

Round I: Written application – to be submitted via the website
Round II: In some cases, shortlisted candidates may be called for online interviews. This is a short interaction conducted via video.
 
Please mark the following dates (all Sundays) in your calendar:

Scholarships deadline: 8th March
Final deadlines: 5th April (Bengaluru); 19th April (Delhi & Kolkata)
 
Applications to the program will be processed on a rolling basis. Typically, applicants will be informed of the admissions decision within 3-4 weeks of their candidature being filed. Some applications may be also waitlisted.
 
Candidates applying for scholarships must ensure that both their program and scholarship applications reach us on or before the first deadline – 8th March 2026. Ideally, both applications should be submitted within a week of each other.

 
See:   Cities   |   Schedule   |   Selection Process & Deadlines   |   Fees & Scholarships   |   Previous Editions   |   Eligibility & FAQs
 


 

Fees & Scholarships

 

Program Fee

 
Rs. 14,000 per participant (excluding GST @18%)
 
To make the program self-sustaining, we charge a fee to cover its operating costs. This year, the fee is lower than in previous years, thanks to the generous contributions from our partners and supporters!
 
The fee for the program is payable only after an applicant has been selected. It includes the cost of the program as well as lunch and refreshments during the in-class sessions. However, applicants need to cover their own local accommodation and travel expenses. The program is not residential and applicants are expected to make their own arrangements.
 


Scholarships

 
We recognize that all deserving candidates may not have the means to fund their participation. To support such candidates, we are committed to offering need-based scholarships.
 
For the HSA program, YLAC will offer scholarships ranging from 50% to 100% of the program fee to selected candidates. This includes exclusive scholarships – supported by partners – to fully cover the program fee for a few exceptional candidates who demonstrate outstanding potential.
 
To be considered for any scholarship, applicants must submit an additional essay explaining how they plan to use the learning from the program and why they need a scholarship to attend. They must also submit a short letter of recommendation from a teacher at school.
 
You are requested to apply for the scholarship only if you need the financial support to attend. You may apply here.
 

See:   Cities   |   Schedule   |   Selection Process & Deadlines   |   Fees & Scholarships   |   Previous Editions   |   Eligibility & FAQs
 


 

The Journey So Far

 

Since its inception in 2016, the High School Achievers program has brought together some of the brightest and most passionate students from top schools across India and abroad. Beyond classroom debates, students have had the unique opportunity to engage with a diverse range of speakers—from policymakers and bureaucrats to professionals from leading companies, and civil society leaders working in fields like health and education.
 
The program’s impact is reflected in the success of its alumni, who have gone on to pursue higher education at prestigious institutions such as Cambridge, Berkeley, Ashoka University, Yale, and Delhi University. Many of our alumni have also taken the initiative to create their own projects in social impact, using the leadership skills they honed during the program to drive social change. Some are now working with sitting Members of Parliament in India.
 
Each new cohort strengthens YLAC’s vibrant community of passionate, engaged citizens, and we remain committed to nurturing this network of future leaders.

 
See:   Cities   |   Schedule   |   Selection Process & Deadlines   |   Fees & Scholarships   |   Previous Editions   |   Eligibility & FAQs
 


 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Should I consider joining?

The High School Achievers program is designed to nurture critical thinking and unlock leadership potential. Through exposure to the liberal arts, including debates on philosophy, political science, sociology, and economics, students are encouraged to explore diverse perspectives and deepen their understanding of the world. Interactive sessions with community members and experts further enhance their learning, providing valuable real-world insights.

The program’s broader aim is to inspire students to reflect on their social context and discover their purpose within society, whether in the public or private sector. This exposure not only enriches their academic journey but also open doors to opportunities for higher education, and meaningful careers.

2. Am I eligible to apply?

If you are studying in grades 9th to 12th and are no more than 18 years of age, you are eligible to apply. Students who are moving into class 9th or those who have just completed their class 12th exams are also eligible.

3. What are the selection criteria?

We look for talented students who wish to change the world around them. There are no prerequisites as such. Students are selected on the basis of their responses to the questions in a short application form.

4. What is the program duration?

The overall duration of the program is one week.

5. Is the program residential?

The High School Achievers program is not designed as a residential program. Students travelling from other cities are expected to make their own stay arrangements.

In the past, we have had several students join us from other cities within the country and abroad. In such cases, students often stay in the program city with either friends or family.

6. Is there a pick-up & drop facility?

Students are expected to make their own arrangements for travel to and from the venue. At our end, we try and select program venues that are centrally located and easily accessible via public transport. Often our students pool with others travelling from their part of town. We usually help facilitate pooling once the cohort has been finalized.

7. Is HSA a conventional classroom?

Not at all! Our methodology is anything but conventional. Our teaching methods are not the usual chalk and duster lectures; we use role-plays, group exercises, peer evaluations, videos and games to make the classroom come alive.

At YLAC, we believe that learning should not be boring and we invest a lot of time and effort in making sure that we deliver on that promise! You can read some of our student testimonials on social media here to see how they enjoy our programs.

8. Who facilitates the sessions?

The sessions are taught and facilitated by the YLAC team. During the course of the program, a number of external speakers are also invited to interact with our students, and engage with them on a range of issues and subjects.

9. What is the class size?

Typically, the class size is 35-55 students.

10. Is attendance compulsory?

Yes, attendance at the sessions is mandatory. Successful completion requires that a student not miss more than one day during the entire duration of the program. Special circumstances can be considered on a case by case basis, but approval must be sought from YLAC facilitators in advance.

11. Do I get a certificate? Are there any specific requirements for graduation?

Yes, students are given a certificate of successful completion at the end of the program. Successful completion requires regular attendance at the program as well as active and constructive participation in sessions.

Each student's contribution is closely monitored by the facilitators and this serves as an important determinant for graduation from the program. Outstanding students are also separately recognized.

12. What is the refund policy?

In case any unforeseen circumstances prevent you from joining the program, you can request our office to initiate the refund process. YLAC will refund 100% of your payment if the request is received 30 days before the beginning of the program. For requests received 15 days before the program, the refund amount shall be 50% of the payment received. YLAC shall not be able to issue any refunds in case the intimation reaches us at a shorter notice.

If the program is cancelled by YLAC due to unanticipated issues (such as the spread of COVID), the full fee shall be refunded.


 
 

Building Capacity to Lead Change

 
 

Critical Thinking

Empathy

Leadership

Perspective

Advocacy for Change

Civic Action & Impact