Future Global Leaders
U.S. university experience through graduate level coursework
Aug. 9–22, 2026
Who Should Attend?
Are you passionate about shaping the future of global affairs?
Come experience life at a U.S. graduate school this summer through an immersive learning program designed for motivated undergraduate students like you.
Gain first-hand exposure to the U.S. educational system, explore life on campus and develop a deeper understanding of graduate studies in an engaging academic environment.
You'll have the opportunity to learn from scholars and experts in judicial systems, innovation, entrepreneurship, marketing, foreign policy, U.S.-Japan relations and more, providing you with unparalleled insights and knowledge. You'll also engage with undergraduates from top universities, fostering a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment.
What You Will Gain from Attending
- Lectures from graduate-level professors
- Leadership skills development training
- Student team projects
- Exposure to career professionals
- Educational field trips
Program at a Glance
Immerse yourself in a dynamic learning environment where you'll engage with expert faculty, participate in thought-provoking discussions and collaborate on real-world policy challenges.
This intensive program offers a unique opportunity to enhance your understanding of international issues, develop advanced analytical skills, and build a network with like-minded peers.
6
graduate-level lectures
taught by university professors
5
educational field trips
4
teambuilding and networking events
Highlights
- Format: Instructor-led coursework, combined with seminars and workshops
- Certificate: Received upon completion to enhance your academic credentials
- Activities: Networking events, field trips and cultural excursions
- Housing: UC San Diego Dormitory – a safe and secure living environment
- Group Project: Work together with your team to craft a final presentation
Benefits
- Engage with expert faculty
- Participate in thought-provoking discussions
- Collaborate on real-world policy challenges
- Enhance your understanding of international issues
- Develop advanced analytical skills
- Build a network with like-minded peers
Testimonials
"FGL helped me strengthen my English and become more confident in myself."
–Kiichi Matsunaga, Kyoto University
"I love watching the San Diego sunsets—the colors change every evening."
–Kokona Sato, Gakushuin University
"The program taught me how to approach problems from a global perspective and strengthened my cross-cultural communication skills."
–Sijia Cheng, Northeastern University at Qinhuangdao
Eligibility
International students pursuing an undergraduate degree in the U.S. or abroad.
Apply Today!
Don't miss this chance to explore new subjects, experience college life and prepare your future academic pursuits at a leading U.S. university.
Frequently Asked Questions
Course Topics
Lecture Topics may include:
- Entrepreneurship
- Globalization
- International Affairs
- International Economics
- Leadership Development
- Product Marketing
- Seminars on topical issues
Schedule
Week 1
Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 4 - 5 p.m. | Dormitory Check-in |
Monday, Aug. 10, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 9:15 - 10:30 a.m. | Campus Tour |
| 10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. | Orientation and Welcome |
| 12:30 - 2 p.m. | Lunch Break |
| 2:15 - 4:30 p.m. | Lecture: Leadership Development |
| 4:45 - 5:15 p.m. | Seminar |
Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Team Building Challenge |
| 12:30 - 2 p.m. | Lunch Break |
| 2:15 - 2:45 p.m. | Preparatory Seminar |
| 3 - 4:30 p.m. | Lecture: International Economics |
| 4:45 - 5:15 p.m. | Follow-up Seminar |
Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. | San Diego World Trade Center Visit |
| 12:30 - 2 p.m. | Lunch Break |
| 3 - 6 p.m. | Field Trip: San Diego Bay |
Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 9:15 - 10:30 a.m. | Workshop: Graduate School Admissions |
| 10:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. | Workshop: Career Services and Professional Development |
| 12:30 - 2 p.m. | Lunch Break |
| 2:15 - 2:45 p.m. | Preparatory Seminar |
| 3 - 4:30 p.m. | Lecture: U.S. Foreign Policy |
| 4:45 - 5:15 p.m. | Follow-up Seminar |
Friday, Aug. 14, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 9:15 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Seminar |
| 12:30 - 2 p.m. | Lunch Break |
| 2 - 5:15 p.m. | Student Networking Event |
Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. | Field Trip: San Diego Zoo |
Week 2
Sunday, Aug. 16, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 10 a.m. - 5:15 p.m. | Field Trip: Birch Aquarium and Torrey Pines Beach |
Monday, Aug. 17, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Field Trip: Salk Institute |
| 12:30 - 2 p.m. | Lunch Break |
| 2:15 - 2:45 p.m. | Preparatory Seminar |
| 3 - 4:30 p.m. | Lecture: International Affairs |
| 4:45 - 5:15 p.m. | Follow-up Seminar |
Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Self-Study and Independent Activities |
| 12:30 - 2 p.m. | Lunch Break |
| 2:15 - 2:45 p.m. | Preparatory Seminar |
| 3 - 4:30 p.m. | Lecture: Product Marketing |
| 4:45 - 5:15 p.m. | Follow-up Seminar |
Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 9:15 - 9:45 a.m. | Preparatory Seminar |
| 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. | Lecture: Globalization |
| 11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. | Follow-up Seminar |
| 12:30 - 2 p.m. | Lunch Break |
| 2 - 5:15 p.m. | Field Trip: La Jolla Shores |
Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 9:15 - 9:45 a.m. | Preparatory Seminar |
| 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. | Lecture: Entrepreneurship |
| 11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. | Follow-up Seminar |
| 12:30 - 2 p.m. | Lunch Break |
| 2:15 - 5:15 p.m. | Work on Student Group Projects |
Friday, Aug. 21, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 9:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. | Presentations: Student Group Projects |
| 12:30 - 2 p.m. | Lunch Break |
| 2 - 4 p.m. | Presentations: Student Group Projects |
| 4 p.m. on | Closing Ceremony |
Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| Morning | Free Time |
| 2 - 3 p.m. | Dormitory Check-out |
Note: Last updated on Nov. 12, 2025. Subject to change.
Seminars
UC San Diego graduate students conduct small-group seminar sessions to familiarize FGL students with the professor and the core concepts of readings, encourage students to discuss reading assignments and their understanding of the content and vocabulary, allow the students to talk about the material in a thoughtful, reflective way and help them feel confident about speaking on the subject. In addition, follow-up seminars focus on discussion with the students, which stimulates reflection on the lecture.
Cost and Applying
Let's Talk Numbers
|
COST |
SUMMER 2026 |
|
Application Fee |
$75 |
|
Program Fee |
$1,400 |
|
Housing and Meals |
$1,995 |
|
Total |
$3,470 |
Application
Deadline: June 17, 2026
Applications will be considered until June 17, 2026, contingent on space availability.
Who can I contact?
We’re ready to provide any help you need.
Please reach out to Greg Mallinger at (858) 822-1696 with any questions or:
Request Information