In a world seeking bold, ethical leaders to tackle global challenges, the African Leadership Academy (ALA) stands as a revolutionary institution sculpting Africa’s next generation of changemakers. This is your exclusive chance to become part of a community of young trailblazers — handpicked from across the continent — who are empowered with the tools, values, and networks to transform Africa from within.
The ALA 2025 admission cycle is now open, and the Academy is calling ambitious, visionary, and purpose-driven youth to apply to its prestigious two-year pre-university program. Located in Johannesburg, South Africa, the Academy nurtures students aged 16–19 with strong leadership potential, entrepreneurial mindset, and a deep passion for making a difference.
At ALA, education goes beyond textbooks. It’s a transformational journey that fosters leadership development, critical thinking, African studies, innovation, and global citizenship. Students are exposed to a diverse peer group, a world-class curriculum, real-world projects, and personalized mentorship, with the aim of unlocking their full potential.
ALA is not just a school — it is a launchpad for Africa’s future leaders. Over 90% of ALA graduates have gone on to top universities like Harvard, Yale, Oxford, Sciences Po, and the University of Cape Town. Many alumni return to Africa to lead initiatives in education, technology, agriculture, public policy, and more.
With robust financial support, merit-based scholarships, and a need-sensitive aid system, ALA ensures that no deserving student is turned away due to lack of funds. If you’re ready to rise to the occasion and become part of something greater than yourself, this is the opportunity of a lifetime.
To be eligible for admission into ALA’s Class of 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Age Requirement: Candidates must be between 15 and 18 years old at the time of application. Those who are older or have already completed university-level education are not eligible.
2. African Connection: Must be a citizen of an African country or demonstrate a clear and strong connection to the continent.
3. Language Proficiency: English fluency is mandatory, as English is the medium of instruction at ALA.
4. Leadership Potential: Applicants should demonstrate strong leadership capabilities, including a track record of taking initiative in school, community, or entrepreneurial activities.
5. Academic Excellence: Students must show strong academic performance, particularly in core subjects like Math, English, Sciences, and Social Studies.
6. Commitment to Service: Candidates should display a passion for social impact and a history of volunteering, organizing community projects, or initiating problem-solving solutions.
7. Entrepreneurial Mindset: ALA seeks students who think creatively and are not afraid to try new ideas to address local and global issues.
8. Strong Moral Character: Integrity, honesty, compassion, and a willingness to learn from others are vital.
9. Emotional Maturity: As a residential program, applicants must demonstrate emotional readiness and resilience to live, study, and collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds.
10. Supporting Documents: Applicants will need to submit recommendation letters, academic transcripts, and a personal essay expressing their vision for Africa’s future and how they intend to contribute to it.
The ALA program is a two-year, full-time, residential pre-university program designed to prepare students for leadership roles and university success. During this period, students engage in:
A rigorous academic curriculum aligned with the Cambridge A-Level system
A unique Entrepreneurial Leadership program
African Studies and Global Studies courses
Real-world problem-solving projects and internships
Mentorship with African professionals and innovators
The program provides students with full access to boarding, meals, medical care, academic materials, extracurricular activities, and professional development resources.
ALA believes in equal opportunity, offering merit-based and need-sensitive scholarships that cover up to 100% of tuition and living expenses. Every admitted student is considered for financial aid based on family income. No student is denied a place due to inability to pay.
Additionally, students may access funded internship opportunities across Africa and globally, and receive university application support, including SAT/ACT prep and assistance with financial aid applications for universities abroad.
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