Application deadline approaching for KU’s Building Bridges: Global Youth Academy

Three students stand in between red, blue, and yellow ribbons

Building Bridges offers local and international students a unique opportunity to experience life on a major U.S. university campus while developing leadership skills and intercultural competence.

Thu, 03/26/2026

Kaylee Mcclure

LAWRENCE — With the April 27 application deadline approaching, the University of Kansas is encouraging families to apply soon for the inaugural cohort of Building Bridges: KU Global Youth Academy, a new 10‑day immersive summer program for students ages 13–17 from Lawrence, across the U.S., and around the world.

Set for July 12–22, 2026, on the KU Lawrence campus, Building Bridges offers students a unique opportunity to experience life on a major U.S. university campus while developing leadership skills and intercultural competence. The children and dependents of KU employees are encouraged to participate. A 10 percent discount on registration rates is available for those employed by KU.

Participants will live in KU residence halls or attend as day campers, access campus amenities—including dining halls, the recreation center, libraries and classrooms—and engage in interactive workshops led by KU faculty and staff. Students will collaborate on group projects, attend college‑readiness sessions, and explore academic areas such as engineering, business and the arts through behind‑the‑scenes department visits. Evening programming includes structured social activities and games designed to foster community and global friendships.

The initiative is led by KU’s International Short Programs office, a team with decades of experience delivering short-term educational programs that promote global learning and cultural exchange at the University of Kansas.

Interested students and families are encouraged to contact Internal Short Programs staff for more information at isp@ku.edu.

Key dates

Application deadline: April 27, 2026
Program dates: July 12–22, 2026

Program options and costs

Overnight (residential): $2,400 (includes housing, all meals, field trips, activities and workshops)
Day camp only: $1,600 (includes one meal per day, plus all field trips, activities and workshops)
10 percent discount for participants who have a parent or guardian who works for KU

Payment plans are available. Interested families can contact ISP to discuss options.

Enrollment is open now through April 27 to both local and international students. For full details, including a sample schedule, eligibility requirements and application process, visit bridges.ku.edu.