NEXUS Youth Exchange 2026 is a 4-day international cultural and leadership programme in Madrid, Spain, from 6 to 9 November 2026, bringing together young changemakers from across the world for cultural exchange, collaborative learning and global dialogue. Please note: this is not an Erasmus+ programme. It's an independent event run by the Nexus Policy Institute, open to all nationalities, with several participation tiers (some funded, some self-funded), each carrying an application processing fee.
What Is It
A 4-day international programme designed to bring young people from across the globe together for cultural exchange, collaborative learning and global dialogue. Unlike a traditional conference, it focuses on interaction, real experiences and meaningful connections between participants from diverse backgrounds.
How the Exchange Works
🌍 Continental team experience: engage with a diverse international team representing Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas
🧑🏫 Guided by mentors: each team is led by an expert mentor who facilitates discussions and active participation
💬 Interactive group discussions: facilitated small-group dialogues to share cultural perspectives
🔄 Rotating exchange experience: move through different groups to maximise your connections
🤝 Live team challenges and collaborative activities that bridge continents
Programme Highlights
🎭 Cultural Exchange Night: participants showcase their traditions and cultures
🗣️ Global Dialogue Circles: small-group discussions on global topics
🚀 Team Collaboration Challenge: interactive sessions on leadership and global challenges
Participation Tiers & Fees
The organisers offer 400 seats in total: 25 fully funded, 45 partially funded, 130 free passes, 100 self-funded and 100 premium access. Each tier carries an application processing fee:
🎓 Fully Funded (merit-based, $17.9 processing fee): round-trip airfare, 4/5-star accommodation, accommodation confirmation letter, daily breakfast and lunch, official invitation letter, visa support, airport transfers, full programme access, merchandise, a speaking opportunity, graduation certificate, a guided Madrid city experience and lifetime Alumni Network access
🎓 Partially Funded (merit-based, $15.9 processing fee): the same on-ground inclusions but without airfare
✉️ Invitation Letter / Visa Support Package ($99 processing fee): a signed and stamped official invitation letter, visa assistance, letter sent directly to the embassy on request, a complete visa documentation checklist and an option to upgrade
🎟️ Self-Funded (guaranteed spot, $699 processing fee): official invitation letter, visa support, full programme access, speaking opportunity, graduation certificate, merchandise, guided city experience and Alumni Network access
💎 Premium Access Pass ($849 processing fee): 4/5-star accommodation, meals, invitation letter, visa support, transfers, full access and all delegate inclusions
The Details
📍 Location: Madrid, Spain
🗓️ Dates: 6 to 9 November 2026 (4 days)
👥 For: young people of all nationalities (400 seats)
ℹ️ Note: this is not an Erasmus+ activity; it's an independent programme run by the Nexus Policy Institute
💶 Funding: a mix of fully funded, partially funded, free-pass and self-funded tiers, each with an application processing fee (see above)
How to Apply
📝 Register via the Nexus Policy Institute website / registration page (linked below). Group registration is available for universities, student organisations and teams, with discounted fees, group invitation letters and a dedicated coordinator
Deadline
📅 As soon as possible!
