Undergraduate Student Programme.
AIMED AT: Undergraduate students
ABOUT THE PROGRAMME: Every summer, the IEA welcomes students from around the world for a packed 4-day programme of lectures, seminars, debates, discussions, and social activities. Participants will participate in workshops on career and professional development, discuss economic schools of thought, and finish the programme delivering a 1-minute elevator pitch on a free market think tank of their choice.
We will host 2 waves of this programme and it is specifically for undergraduate students.
DATES:
Wave 1: 3rd August – 6th August 2026
Wave 2: 10th August – 13th August 2026
TESTIMONIALS:
“Thank you for enabling this wonderful, inspiring programme! I was impressed by the vast variety of topics covered in talks, debates and discussions and feel that this programme has added great value to my personal development.”
“I know I will look back on my summer as one of the most memorable experiences of my life. It’s been absolutely rewarding to take part in debates and seminars on a wide array of issues. Thanks for the support that has made my summer intellectually stimulating and very entertaining at the same time!”
Information.
The IEA Future Thought Leaders’ Programme (Undergraduate) is a 4-day summer programme with a focus on economics and public policy. Students participate in a series of lectures delivered by experts, addressing pressing current issues such as globalisation, inequality, solutions to combat climate change, inflation, the housing crisis, political realignment, and the regulation of digital markets.
In addition, the IEA delivers professional development sessions led by industry professionals, offering insights into careers in finance, academia, think-tanks, journalism, and more. During the programme, students undertake speed debates, lively discussions and finish by delivering a 1-minute elevator pitch on a free market think tank of their choice.
Former students have pursued varied career paths, and the IEA extends continuous support to its alumni, emphasising not only guidance but also fostering networking opportunities. Alumni are regularly invited to invitations to private receptions, IEA book club discussions and policy panel events.
This programme not only introduces undergraduate students to the world of politics, but also opens the door to our more advanced programmes, such as Freedom Week in Cambridge and Camp Vinson in Buckingham, as well as cultivating lasting connections in a community devoted to shaping the future of economics and public policy.
Application.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 28th June 2026
HOW TO APPLY: Please complete the form below. Please note that we will assign you to either Wave 1 or Wave 2 randomly.
Apply
If you’ve submitted the form, we have your application. Due to high volume, we cannot respond to individual status updates.
COST: The programme is free, but participants will need to cover their own travel, food, and accommodation. There is a student opportunity fund available if required.