Wharton Global Youth Program
by Wharton University of Pennsylvania
Need-based scholarships
The Wharton Global Youth Program's Essentials of Leadership is a transformative online and on-campus program designed for high school students to develop critical leadership, teamwork, and communication skills for effective decision-making and global impact.
Mode
Hybrid
Fee
$4,099
Participation format
Individual
Duration
2-4 weeks (varies by program)
Eligibility
Open to high school students in grades 9-12 (ages 14-18) with a minimum 3.3 unweighted GPA. Applicants need to submit transcripts, a recommendation letter, and essays. English proficiency test scores are required for non-native English speakers. The program accepts international students and offers both online and on-campus options, making it accessible nationwide.
- Grade level
- Grade 9 to 12
- Age range
- 14 to 18 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Minimum 3.3 unweighted GPA (3.5 for Leadership in the Business World and Management and Technology Summer Institute).
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Award
Scholarships provide full or partial funding for program fees. Winners of the Wharton Global Youth Program's Investment Competition receive a waived course fee for Essentials of Leadership, valued at $4,099 . Need-based scholarships are also available for academically ambitious students.
Certificate
Wharton Global Youth Certificate
Participants who successfully complete all program requirements will earn a Wharton Global Youth Certificate of Completion.
Recognized by
Opens doors to
Opportunity for exceptional high school juniors and seniors to earn University of Pennsylvania college credit through its Pre-Baccalaureate Program, which awards 0.5 University of Pennsylvania course units (equivalent to 2 college credits at most post-secondary institutions) per course. This can significantly enhance college applications and academic profiles for top-tier universities.
Recognition
International Recognition from Wharton
Skills your child builds
Key dates
Last edition
- Registration opened
- 1 Sept 2025
- Registration closed
- 2 Apr 2026
- Dates
- 15 Jun 2026 to 17 Jul 2026
How to apply
- 1Submit application and supporting materials electronically through the Wharton Global Youth Application Portal.
- 2A non-refundable application fee of $100 USD is required. Fee waivers may be available for students applying through partner organizations.
- 3Applications are reviewed once all required materials, including teacher recommendations and grades, are received.
- 4Applying by the priority deadline is strongly recommended.
Rules and guidelines
- Daily participation and engagement are required for online programs.
- Applicants may apply to more than one program, but a separate application is required for each.
- Use of generative AI tools for brainstorming is permitted, but final essays must reflect the applicant's unique voice.
Technology requirements
- Reliable internet connection for online programs.
- Videos are available via online streaming only; offline viewing is not supported.
- System may not fully support access with mobile devices.
- Computer that meets minimum system requirements for Canvas LMS and Zoom Videoconferencing.
Fees and financial support
Fee details
Program fees vary by program type and duration. Online programs like Essentials of Leadership typically cost around $4099 USD for two weeks. On-campus programs can range from $7,300 to $11,000 USD. A non-refundable application fee of $100 USD is also required.
Financial support
The Wharton Global Youth Program offers need-based scholarships and financial awards, providing full or partial funding for eligible participants. Scholarships are awarded to students with academic excellence and demonstrated financial need, determined by factors like family income and expenses.
Refund policy
Application fees are non-refundable. Specific refund policies for program fees are not detailed but generally, program fees are non-refundable once the program begins.
About this opportunity
The Wharton Global Youth Program offers immersive experiences to educate and inspire pre-collegiate students in business and finance. These programs, led by Wharton faculty, provide a rigorous business education and opportunities to network with global peers. Students can explore diverse topics such as entrepreneurship, finance, leadership, data science, and product design through on-campus, online, and location-based formats.
Participants engage with a curriculum that includes lectures, discussions, collaborative projects, and real-time business simulations. The programs aim to strengthen leadership skills, develop an entrepreneurial mindset, and provide insights into complex global challenges. Students gain practical experience through case competitions and interactive digital simulations, preparing them for future roles in the global economy.
Upon successful completion, students receive a Wharton Global Youth Certificate of Completion, which can be a valuable addition to their academic portfolio. The program also offers opportunities to earn University of Pennsylvania college credit through its Pre-Baccalaureate Program. Financial aid and scholarships are available to support academically ambitious students with demonstrated financial need.
This program is ideal for high school students who are eager to develop their leadership potential and gain a foundational understanding of business principles from a world-renowned institution. It provides a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, fostering skills essential for future academic and professional success.
What your child will do
- Live online class sessions and lectures.
- Facilitated small group discussions.
- Collaborative group work and projects.
- Interactive business simulations, including The Saturn Parable.
- Case competitions and analysis.
- Guest speakers from Wharton faculty, alumni, and industry leaders.
- Independent work on the Wharton Online Learning Platform.
- Exploration of local culture and businesses for location-based programs.
Mentors and faculty
Wharton faculty and instructional staff serve as instructors and guides.
Languages
Academic details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
The curriculum includes rigorous coursework, interactive lectures, small group discussions, collaborative projects, and real-time business simulations. Topics are driven by Wharton research and teaching, covering areas like organizational leadership models, competitive strategy, financial concepts, and entrepreneurial techniques. The program culminates in a simulated trip to Saturn, where small groups navigate obstacles to achieve mission goals.
Frequently asked questions
How can students best prepare for the academic rigor of the Wharton Global Youth Program?
Students can prepare by reviewing foundational business and leadership concepts, practicing critical thinking and analytical skills, and engaging in collaborative projects. Familiarity with the program's core subjects, such as finance, entrepreneurship, or management, will also be beneficial for maximizing the learning experience.
What are the long-term benefits of participating in a program like the Wharton Global Youth Program for future academic and career paths?
Participation offers significant advantages for higher education admissions, particularly for business-focused programs, by demonstrating a serious interest and foundational knowledge. It also provides valuable skills in leadership, business acumen, and networking, which are crucial for future career success in various industries.
How do participants manage their time effectively given the intensive nature of the program's curriculum?
Effective time management is crucial. Participants are encouraged to create a structured study schedule, prioritize tasks, and utilize available academic support resources. Balancing live sessions, group work, and independent study requires discipline and proactive planning to ensure successful completion of all program requirements.
What kind of support is available to students during the program to ensure their academic success and well-being?
Participants have access to Wharton instructors, teaching assistants, and academic advisors who provide guidance and support. University learning resources, including research catalogs and library services, are also available. For on-campus programs, comprehensive health services and residential supervision are provided.
How does the program foster an entrepreneurial mindset and practical application of business concepts?
The program integrates interactive lectures, real-time business simulations, case competitions, and collaborative projects. These activities provide hands-on experience in applying theoretical knowledge to solve real-world business challenges, encouraging innovative thinking and strategic decision-making.
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