The Hansen Summer Institute on Leadership and International Cooperation is an exceptional program that provides young scholars from around the world with a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills, foster international collaboration, and promote global peace. Funded by the generous Fred J. Hansen Foundation, this prestigious three-week program is held annually in San Diego, California, every July.
Each year, students from the United States and various conflict-affected regions across the globe come together to engage in a transformative learning experience.
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The Hansen Summer Institute has established itself as a pivotal platform for nurturing the next generation of global leaders through intensive leadership training, team-building exercises, and a strong emphasis on international cooperation.
Key Information
- Country: USA
- Funded By: Fred J. Hansen Foundation
- Location: San Diego, California
- Duration: July 01 – July 23 2025
- Deadline: 10th January 2025
What Makes the Hansen Summer Institute Special?
The program has been designed to provide university students with hands-on training in leadership and conflict resolution. Fellows—students accepted into the program—receive expert guidance in the areas of:
- Team-building: Developing skills to work cohesively with others in challenging and multicultural environments.
- Public Speaking: Enhancing confidence and effectiveness in delivering impactful presentations and speeches.
- Negotiation and Mediation: Learning strategies for peaceful conflict resolution and collaboration.
- Social Entrepreneurship: Exploring innovative solutions to global problems and empowering communities through entrepreneurship.
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Eligibility Criteria
NON – U.S. STUDENTS: (from zones of conflict and/or social strife)
- Upper division undergraduate with 2 years of college/university or graduate student with a professional interest in international relations, diplomacy, international economic development or related fields.
- Students must be between the ages of 20-25 at the start of the program.
- Must have demonstrated leadership potential outside of the classroom in the community, nation or region.
- Have an academic adviser verify in writing the candidate’s English proficiency
- Have a valid international passport with U.S. visa if necessary by the time the program begins
- Preference will be given to those who have never visited the United States
Preference will be given to students who have never been to the United States before but all qualified students are encouraged to apply.
Benefits
The Hansen Summer Institute is fully funded by the Fred J. Hansen Foundation. This includes international airfare, room and board, and all programmatic costs. If selected the only cost to participants will be the fees incurred in obtaining a passport and spending money.
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How to apply?
- Click on the “Apply” tab for a link to the International and U.S. application portal.
- Log-in to create an account and begin completing the online application.
- Your application will not be reviewed by the selection committee until they have received the entire, completed application (100% in all sections, including transcripts and recommendation forms).
- Official link – https://www.hansenleadershipinstitute.org/
Conclusion
The Hansen Summer Institute on Leadership and International Cooperation is more than just a summer program—it’s a life-changing experience that empowers young leaders to foster international understanding and cooperation. If you’re passionate about making a global impact, this program offers the perfect platform to develop the leadership skills, knowledge, and connections needed to effect meaningful change. Apply now to be part of a community of changemakers and embark on an unforgettable journey toward becoming a global leader.\
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. When will results be announced?
Ans. The selection committee will begin reviewing international student applications in February and results will be emailed to all applicants in mid to late March.
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Q. What leadership skills do fellows develop?
Ans. Fellows receive training in team-building, public speaking, negotiation and mediation, and social entrepreneurship, with a focus on conflict resolution and collaboration.
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Q. Who funds the Hansen Summer Institute?
Ans. The program is fully funded by Fred J. Hansen Foundation, covering airfare, accommodation, meals, and all program-related cost.
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Q. Who can apply for the Hansen Summer Institute?
Ans. Eligible applicants include upper-division undergraduate or graduate students between the ages of 20-25 with an interest in international relations, diplomacy, or related fields.
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Q. How do I verify my English proficiency?
Ans. When you submit a name and email address for your academic referee, they will automatically receive an email with instructions to login and answer a questionnaire to complete to verify your English proficiency. This verification will be submitted with their recommendation form. This is an automatic process; there is no extra information for you to provide.
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