Call for Applications—Hansen Summer Exchange Program in the USA. The Hansen Leadership Institute 2026 is a Fully Funded 3-week summer exchange program hosted at the University of San Diego, California, open to both international students and U.S. citizens. IELTS is not required. The program covers all expenses, and there is no application fee.

As the name implies, it is a leadership-focused program. Your academic discipline is not a restriction—what matters most is demonstrating your leadership qualities, vision, and ideas in line with the program’s goals.

The mission of HLI is to foster a peaceful world through international collaboration. The program emphasizes global cooperation, leadership development, and strategies to build peace. Students from any academic background are welcome to apply.

More details are provided below.

Details About Hansen Leadership Institute 2026 (USA)

• Host Country: United States
• Location: University of San Diego, California
• Duration: July 1-22, 2026
• Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
• Deadline:
  • 15th January 2026 (For International)
  • March 15, 2026 (For U.S. Citizens)

Financial Benefits of Hansen Leadership Institute

The Hansen Summer Institute is funded by the Fred J. Hansen Foundation. The program covers:

• International Airfare Tickets
• Room and Board
• All Program Costs, including Local Tours
• Paid U.S. Visa Fee.

Who can apply for the Hansen Leadership Institute?

• The Hansen Leadership Exchange Program is open to Undergraduate and Graduate students from all around the world.
• The Hansen Leadership program is a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on workshops, and field trips.
• Students learn about a variety of leadership topics, including conflict resolution, mediation, intercultural dialogue and management, social entrepreneurship, and public speaking.

Eligibility Criteria for International Applicants (NON-US)

• Undergraduate students who have completed two years of higher education.
• Graduate student with a professional interest in international relations, diplomacy, international economic development, or related fields.
• Students must be between the ages of 20 and 25 at the start of the program.
• Show your leadership activities.
• GPA is not a part of the selection criteria.
• Letter of Recommendation from the Academic Advisor.
• Have a valid international passport.
• Preference will be given to those who have never visited the United States.

Eligibility Criteria for U.S. Students

•  Students from any university in the United States.
• Undergraduate with 2 years of college/university.
• Graduate student with a professional interest in international relations, diplomacy, international economic development, or related fields.
• Students must be between the ages of 20 and 25 at the start of the program.

Selection and Result

The selection committee will start reviewing international student applications in February, and results will be emailed to all applicants in mid to late March.

How to Apply for the Hansen Leadership Institute 2026?

The application process is online. For new students, create an account first. Fill out the application form. Save it and come back later. The official link is given below.