Hansen Leadership Institute 2027 in the USA

About

The Hansen Leadership Institute brings together young leaders from many countries for an intensive three-week program at the University of San Diego in California. The program focuses on leadership, public speaking, mediation, conflict resolution and international cooperation.

Participants build practical skills and an international network that they can use to support peace and development in their own communities. The program is a leadership development program, not a degree or a university scholarship.

Program dates

• 29 June to 20 July 2027 (three weeks)
• Participants must attend the whole program. Late arrival and early departure are not allowed.

What is covered

• International airfare
• Accommodation
• Meals
• All program costs
• Visa support documents for selected participants: an acceptance letter, a financial support letter, a DS-2019 form issued by the University of San Diego, and a receipt for the paid SEVIS fee

What you pay yourself

• Passport costs
• Personal spending money

Eligibility criteria

• You must be at least 20 and not yet 26 years old on 1 July 2027.
• You must have completed at least one year of college or university when you apply.
• If you are not studying now, you must have graduated in 2025 or 2026.
• Your English level is confirmed by an academic referee through a questionnaire sent with the recommendation form.
• There are separate application routes for international applicants and U.S. applicants.

Deadlines

• International applicants: 15 January 2027, 11:55 PM Pacific Time
• U.S. applicants: 15 March 2027, 11:55 PM Pacific Time

All application materials, including references, must be submitted by your deadline.

How to apply

1. Open the official application portal.
2. Create an account.
3. Complete the online application.
4. Add your referees’ details and follow the portal’s instructions for recommendations and supporting documents.
5. Check that every section and every reference is complete before the deadline.

Your academic referee will get an automatic email with instructions to fill in an English proficiency questionnaire together with the recommendation form. The full list of required documents is shown in the application portal, so check it there before you start.

Visa

You do not need a U.S. visa to apply. If you are selected, you will receive the documents you need to support your visa application.

Selection and results

According to the official FAQ, review of international applications starts in February, and results are sent by email in early March.

Tips for a strong application

• Start early so your referees have enough time to submit their forms before the deadline.
• Choose an academic referee who knows your work and can speak to your English level.
• Show concrete examples of leadership or community work you have already done.
• Make sure you can attend all three weeks before you apply.