Ashoka University

YSP Policy, Society & International Affairs (PSIA) is a certified 5-day residential programme that equips highschoolers to translate knowledge into action, creating impact that resonates across communities and systems. Participants develop interdisciplinary understanding to actively analyse complex systems, global trends, and pressing issues from both national and global perspectives, while also examining the role of media in shaping narratives.

Yes, YSP Policy, Society & International Affairs (PSIA) is an offline, residential programme and will be held in person at Ashoka University Campus in Sonipat, Haryana.

The programme schedule for YSP PSIA will include:

• Faculty sessions exploring core concepts of problem-solving, diplomacy, strategy, leading with influence and insight, among others
• Workshops and hands-on projects
• Inspiring speaker sessions with visionary founders and innovators
• Co-curriculars and social activities in the evenings

YSP Policy, Society & International Affairs (PSIA) will be scheduled both in Edition 1 and 2.

• Edition 1: May 25 to May 29, 2026*
• Edition 2: June 8 to June 12, 2026*

*tentative schedule, subject to change

No, there is no specific background required to participate in YSP PSIA. The programme welcomes students from all academic backgrounds. The programme introduces key ideas from international relations, political science, public policy, history, economics, sociology, and media studies through interactive, experiential learning, real-world examples ensuring accessibility for every motivated learner.

The topics for the programme have been carefully curated for a high-school audience. They are thought provoking, accessible and suitable for students across different boards and grades. It is recommended to students to read up on the speakers and their area of research in advance to better connect with the discussions and make the maximum out of the programme. The list of speakers is shared closer to the programme.

No. YSP PSIA is not modeled on a particular school board. It is open to high school students from all educational boards—including CBSE, ICSE, IB, Cambridge, State Boards, and international curricula. The programme is rooted in Ashoka University’s pedagogy that uses a multidisciplinary, and interdisciplinary approach emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.

PSIA adopts an interdisciplinary approach that connects diverse academic fields to offer a holistic understanding of policy, systems, and society. The programme integrates perspectives from political science, international relations, history, economics, public policy, sociology, and media studies, enabling students to explore global issues through a rich, multidisciplinary lens.

YSP PSIA focuses on immersive learning through a range of interactive exercises such as simulations, workshops, Model UN–style sessions, policy labs, and case studies. These experiences will enable students to apply conceptual frameworks to real-world contexts, while also strengthening their critical thinking, teamwork, and decision-making skills.

YSP PSIA is designed for students interested in understanding how global systems operate. While public policy is one dimension, the programme equally focuses on international relations, political science, history, governance, economics, sociology, and the role of media to decode how power and policies interact and shape our world. Students explore how decisions made in one corner of the globe can affect global economies, markets, communities and even individual lives.

Participants develop a broad range of academic and transferable skills, including critical analysis, problem-solving, evidence-based reasoning, persuasive communication, strategic decision-making, ethical leadership, and teamwork – skills that are essential for effective collaboration and creating/leading impactful ventures across diverse contexts.

Upon completion, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how global and domestic systems interact, along with a practical understanding of negotiation, diplomacy, and policy formulation. They will enhance your ability to not only critically analyze global challenges, but also articulate your informed opinions on the same. Additionally, you will receive a physical copy of a certificate of completion by Ashoka University provided you attend all sessions and participate meaningfully.

Globally renowned faculties from Ashoka University, industry experts, scholars, and scientists provide insights on relevant career opportunities In most sessions, there is dedicated time for Q&A, where students can ask questions related to emerging fields, career options, etc.

Students will also have the opportunity to hold office hours with Ashoka’s undergraduate students who work as counselors during the programme to learn about their academic experiences in specific majors and minors, helping them make informed decisions.

Yes, you will receive a physical copy of a certificate of completion by Ashoka University provided you attend all sessions and participate meaningfully.

HSP Ambassadors are creative and proactive Young Scholars Programme (YSP) & Horizons Achievers Programme (HAP) alumni who are selected to represent YSP & HAP in their schools and among their networks.

Learn more about HSP Ambassadors

YSP helps students gain clarity about future subject choices, college decisions, and career interests, while experiencing learning beyond school and a glimpse into university life. Students also join the YSP Alumni Network and can apply to be the Office of High School Programmes’s (HSP) Ambassadors.

YSP PSIA equips students with the intellectual tools and global outlook needed to thrive in a rapidly changing, interconnected world. The programme nurtures analytical and leadership skills that transcend disciplines, fosters the ability to engage with diverse perspectives and global issues, and builds a strong foundation for future study and careers in international relations, diplomacy, law, governance, media, and social impact.

The Ashoka Young Scholars Programme is open to:

• Students entering Grades 9–12 in the academic year 2027-28
• Students who have completed Grade 12 in the academic year 2026-27 but are not yet enrolled in an undergraduate programme

Selection in the Young Scholars Programme (YSP) will be based on –

1. Academic performance: Applicants must upload scanned copies of their previous two years’ original academic transcripts/marksheets
2. Essay submission: Applicants are required to submit a 250-word essay. Essays are checked for plagiarism and AI-generated text, so applicants are encouraged to ensure that their submission reflects their own ideas and writing.
3. Co-curricular activities: This includes participation and achievements in competitions, leadership roles, community initiatives, creative pursuits, or sustained engagement in activities such as sports, music, or the arts. YSP looks for open-minded and curious learners who demonstrate initiative and commitment beyond the classroom.

YSP applicants must upload scanned copies of their original academic transcript/marksheet for the academic year 2025-26.
Please ensure that the mark sheets you upload meet the following guidelines:

1. The marksheet must be clear, complete, and legible, and must not be cropped or blurred.
2. The marksheet must be authorised by the school and clearly show the applicant’s name, the school’s name, and the official stamp.
3. For board examinations, only scanned copies of original hard-copy marksheets issued by the respective board are accepted.
4. The marksheet must be from the academic year 2025-26 and correspond to the grade the applicant studied in during that academic year.For example, applicants entering Grade 10 in the academic year 2027-28 must upload their Grade 8 final examination marksheet from 2025-26.
5. Before submitting the application, applicants must ensure that they have uploaded the correct final examination or board examination marksheet for the academic year 2025-26.

No. YSP welcomes students from all academic backgrounds.

All updates regarding application status and enrollment decisions are shared via the applicant’s registered email address.

Yes. All enrolled students are required to review and adhere to the programme’s Code of Conduct and Terms & Conditions. The document provided below outlines the policies and expectations that applicants must read and agree to before enrolment.

YSP 2027 Code of Conduct

Yes, there is a Waitlist. Applicants who are waitlisted will be notified as such via email. As enrolments are on a rolling basis, we will reach out to waitlisted applicants if a seat becomes available.

Yes. Students who have recently completed Grade 12 and are NOT yet enrolled in an undergraduate programme are welcome to apply.

Yes, many students return to YSP to explore a new disciplinary track and deepen their learning in another area of interest. We recommend choosing a different programme track to broaden your perspective and build on your previous YSP experience.

Yes, students may apply to and attend two or more programmes, provided the respective programme schedules do not overlap with each other.

Yes, the Young Scholars Programme (YSP) accepts applications from international students.

Applications for the Young Scholars Programme (YSP) open on 1st December 2026. The early deadline is on 7th March, 2027, 11:59 pm. We recommend applying early since enrollments happen on a rolling basis.

Students with questions about the application process can contact the YSP applications team at youngscholars@ashoka.edu.in. The YSP applications team closely monitors communications sent to this email and responds promptly to all queries.

Yes, the application fee is ₹1,000 (non-refundable) and must be paid when submitting the application.

The programme fees for programmes at YSP are as follows:

The programme fee includes academic sessions and structured activities, stationery and resource materials, accommodation, and meals for the duration of the programme.

• Yes. Merit-cum-need-based scholarship is available for eligible applicants. Applicants can apply for the scholarship within the YSP application form, which opens on 1st December 2026. The scholarship application deadline is 7th March 2027.
• Applicants must submit the required documents detailing their parents’ income for their scholarship application to be considered. The YSP team reviews applications based on both academic merit and financial need. The YSP team informs successful applicants of their scholarship decision, with scholarships covering 100% of the programme fee.

Selected applicants must complete the payment and enrolment process within five days of receiving their offer.

The Refund Policy for all programmes under Ashoka Young Scholars Programme (YSP) is as follows:

All refunds will be initiated and processed only after The Ashoka Young Scholars Programme (YSP) 2027 concludes.

Ashoka University shuttles are available for YSP students and their parents between the campus and Azadpur Metro Station, Delhi. Ashoka University does not provide direct transport from airports or railway stations. However, students are free to book transport on their own or use their own vehicles.

Please note: Updated schedule/changes (if any) will be shared closer to the programme

There is plenty to do outside the classroom. YSP students can use campus sports facilities, join creative workshops, and enjoy fun activities organised daily in the residence halls with peers from their floor. These activities provide opportunities for peer engagement, interaction, and networking.
For 10-day programmes, the weekend also includes specially planned workshops and activities, giving students more opportunities to explore, learn, and spend time with their peers.

YSP students stay on the Ashoka University campus in double-occupancy rooms, sharing their residential experience with peers from different programmes, schools, and backgrounds. Roommates are assigned based on gender and similar grade level, giving students the chance to meet new people and also build friendships beyond their own programme.

Four balanced meals are provided daily at the main campus dining hall: breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner, and are included in the programme fees. YSP students can choose from vegetarian, non-vegetarian, vegan, and Jain options at the campus mess. Additional food outlets are available across campus for snacks and other favourites, which students can purchase at their own expense.

YSP Students have access to a range of facilities and everyday essentials during their stay, including:

• Medical support: A well-equipped infirmary provides basic first aid and medical assistance free of cost, with a 24/7 ambulance service available.
• Sports facilities for recreation and evening activities, including an indoor badminton and basketball court, football fields, table tennis, lawn tennis and more!
• Food & Essentials: Campus food outlets, a tuck shop, a book-cum-stationery store. All meals covered in the programme fees are provided at the mess.
  Note: Any purchases from campus outlets or shops are at the student’s own expense.
• Personal Care: A unisex salon is available on campus
• Common facilities: Drinking water coolers are available across campus, while microwaves, refrigerators, and induction plates are available for student use in the residence halls.

All regular meals are provided at the campus mess.

**Facility availability and timings are subject to change and will be updated closer to the programme.

Yes. YSP Students can bring their phones and laptops to use during their free time and throughout their stay. Mobile phones, however, are not permitted during academic sessions so students can stay engaged in class.

Students are supported throughout the programme by the YSP Programme Team and the YSP Student Counsellors, who are current Ashoka University undergraduate students. Lab Assistants and Teaching Assistants provide additional support during lab and workshop sessions. Together, these teams help students navigate campus life and provide guidance throughout their stay.

The Ashoka University campus has 24/7 security personnel stationed across the campus, including at entry and exit points and student residences. CCTV cameras monitor common areas, and access to campus and residential buildings is restricted to authorised individuals. Visitors must register at the main gate and present valid identification. Luggage screening is also conducted upon student arrival.
During YSP, students are expected to follow the programme’s safety and campus guidelines, including those related to campus access and leaving the campus.

Students have access to an on-campus infirmary staffed by experienced resident doctors, providing basic medical care and scheduled OPD services. The infirmary and ambulance services are available 24/7 to address medical needs and emergencies.

Yes. YSP students must carry a valid school or government-issued ID when entering or exiting the campus.

YSP Students are expected to remain on campus throughout the programme and cannot leave independently.

In case of an emergency, students must inform the YSP team by emailing youngscholars@ashoka.edu.in, keeping their parent/guardian in CC, and receive approval before leaving campus.

For 10-day programmes, students may leave campus over the weekend and return on Sunday, with parental consent. Enrolled students receive a parent consent form to share these details in advance. If there are any changes to the plans, students must inform the YSP team by emailing youngscholars@ashoka.edu.in.

Parents and guardians may accompany YSP students for drop-off and pick-up, but cannot stay on campus or visit during the programme, except on designated pick-up days.

Parents/guardians are also invited for a campus walk-through on arrival day at programme-specific times.

YSP Students are responsible for keeping their personal belongings and valuables, including cash, laptops, mobile phones, cameras, and jewellery, secure during the programme.

Any lost or stolen item should be reported to the Residence Life team or warden at the earliest