Let’s come together to shape youth development priorities amidst heightened global uncertainties.
The Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC) is convening the Commonwealth Youth Development Summit from April 9-11, 2026, at the University of Oxford, United Kingdom. This landmark event will bring together youth leaders, policymakers, institutions and partners from across the Commonwealth and beyond to shape the future of youth development.
Through high-level dialogue, practical capacity-building, and solution-oriented engagement, the Summit strengthens youth capacity for effective advocacy, policymaking, and programme delivery. It equips participants with the tools, networks, and insights required to influence contemporary youth development challenges at local, national, and global levels.
The three-day Summit is intentionally designed to move participants from context-setting to capacity-building, co-creation, and strategic political engagement ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting amd Youth Forum.
Participants will engage in:
Location: University of Oxford, United Kigndom
Event dates: April 9 – 11, 2026
Capacity : 120 Delegates
Participants will be selected based on:
What Your Registration Covers
Confirmed delegates will receive:
Note: Accommodation and travel costs are not included.
Registration and payments are processed by our partner, Nexworth Group LTD
Who Can Apply?
The Commonwealth Youth Development Summit 2026 is open to motivated young people aged 18-35 from across the Commonwealth and beyond, including:
No prior international experience is required – only commitment, curiosity, and a passion for youth development.
What’s the deadline for applications?
Applications close on 22 February 2026 at 23:59 (GMT).
How many total seats are available, and how are they distributed?
120 Seats are available. For early-bird and self-funded regular registration, seats will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis to applicants who meet the selection criteria.
For funded participants, selection will be highly competitive and will be based on the strength of the short submission. Essays will be assessed based on alignment with the Summit themes as well as evidence of leadership or impact
When will I hear back after I submit my application?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis to allow sufficient time for visa processing.
What is the age eligibility for this forum?
Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.
Do I have to be a youth leader to apply?
No. Applicants with strong interest, motivation, and commitment to youth development are encouraged to apply.
How are applicants selected?
Minimum eligibility requirements include being within the 18-35 age range and possessing an international passport. Other criteria include experience or a strong interest in youth development.
Do I need a visa to attend, and what support will I get towards my application?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality:
We provide comprehensive visa support to all attendees who need it. This support will be available once you have confirmed your attendance and completed payment.
What happens if I register but do not get a visa to attend?
Participation fees are non-refundable. Participants are therefore strongly encouraged to apply early and submit the required visa documentation.
Where will the Summit be held?
The Summit would hold at the award-winning Blavatnik School of Government Building in Oxford.
Where will participants stay in Oxford?
The registration fee does not cover accommodations for participants, however, information on available hotels and apartments around the Summit Location will be collated and shared with applicants.
