July 2025
The Swedish Institute Summer Academy for Young Professionals (SAYP) is a prestigious and fully funded training program that brings together young professionals from Eastern Partnership countries to develop their leadership and governance capacities. SAYP is designed for early- to mid-career professionals aged between 25 and 40 who are currently employed in public administration, policymaking, civil society organizations, or the private sector. With its focus on democratic governance, transparency, EU integration, and cross-sector collaboration, SAYP offers a unique opportunity to grow professionally while building a strong international network.
Before diving into your application, it’s essential to first ensure your eligibility. Applicants must be citizens or residents of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, or Ukraine and hold a university degree of at least three years. Proficiency in English is a must, as the entire program is conducted in English. Your current role should also be aligned with democratic or governance-related work, such as civil service, community organizing, public administration, or reform advocacy. In some countries, eligibility is limited to those working in civil society only, so double-check the criteria based on your country of origin.
A key to a successful application is choosing the right module. SAYP offers multiple thematic modules hosted by Swedish universities, each with a unique focus—ranging from e-governance and participatory democracy to gender equality, public administration reform, and digital transitions. Applicants can choose up to two modules, but you’ll need to rank them and submit a separate motivation letter for each. When selecting modules, be strategic. Choose ones that align with both your current professional responsibilities and your long-term goals. If your work involves human rights, for instance, modules hosted by the Raoul Wallenberg Institute or Malmö University may offer the most relevant learning.
Your motivation letter is arguably the most important part of your application. It should not only explain why you’re applying for the specific module but also outline what you plan to do with the knowledge you gain. SAYP requires participants to conceptualize a “mini-project” that they will implement after the program. Use your letter to introduce this project idea: describe the challenge it addresses, how you plan to implement it, who will benefit, and how SAYP will help you succeed. Don’t forget to clearly state your ranked module preferences if applying to more than one. Be specific, results-oriented, and authentic—your passion and potential should come through naturally.
When it comes to your CV, stick to the Europass format, which is the preferred standard for EU applications. Highlight relevant work experience, leadership roles, and any previous involvement in community-based or policy-related projects. Emphasize measurable outcomes: instead of simply stating responsibilities, showcase what you’ve achieved. Did your team’s advocacy lead to a policy change? Did a project you managed improve service delivery? These are the kinds of results that demonstrate your capacity for impact.
Another critical part of the application is the reference letter. SAYP requires a professional reference using its official template, which should be completed by someone who can speak to your leadership skills, your professional track record, and your potential to drive change. It’s important to brief your referee thoroughly—share your module selections, project idea, and the purpose of the program so they can craft a strong and relevant letter.
Beyond the core application materials, you can give yourself an edge by learning from past SAYP alumni. Participants often share their experiences through Swedish Institute blogs, testimonials, and alumni networks. Their stories provide useful insight into how they shaped their applications and what they gained from the program. Reaching out via LinkedIn or SI alumni groups can also open doors to mentorship or peer advice as you prepare.
When submitting your application, be sure to apply via the specific university portals hosting your chosen modules. Each application must be submitted separately, with module-specific motivation letters. The deadline for 2025 is August 26, so it’s wise to prepare well in advance. Proofread all documents carefully—strong written communication is one of the first indicators of your professionalism and readiness.
After submission, if selected, you’ll receive a notification around mid-October. Make sure your travel documents are ready, especially if a visa is required. Begin planning for your mini-project implementation and consider reaching out to other selected participants through social media or alumni channels to build rapport ahead of time.
In closing, applying for SAYP is not just about getting into a training program—it’s about stepping into a wider regional and global network of young leaders who are actively shaping the future of governance, democracy, and civic innovation. By aligning your goals with the program’s mission, articulating your story clearly, and preparing high-quality application materials, you position yourself as a strong candidate. And remember: you don’t have to go through it alone. If you need help refining your motivation letter or mini-project idea, reach out for feedback—having a second set of eyes can make a big difference.
Good luck on your SAYP journey—your leadership journey starts here.
