Take Action Lab is an immersive, semester-long program designed to equip young people ages 17-22 with the skills needed to create lifelong impact. In Take Action Labs, students travel abroad with a global cohort, apprentice with leading nonprofit organizations, and build skills in cross-cultural communication, creative problem-solving, and more. Participants emerge with a renewed sense of agency toward their future.

I actually know how I want to use college and my career to create social impact. I feel empowered, like I can do anything.

Karine Saraiva | South Africa, 2023

At the end of the program, students join a global alumni community, including access to an exclusive Alumni Community Hub and professional development opportunities. Completing Take Action Lab opens doors for alumni to expand their global impact through the Circle of Service initiative, in partnership with the Peace Corps.

Take Action Lab tuition includes research backed curriculum, cultural experiences, apprenticeship matching and support, room and board, a basic living expense stipend, a local support team, and airport transfer on arrival and departure. Applicants will have the opportunity to apply for financial aid.

Program Dates and Deadlines

Take Action Lab

High school seniors should apply for a 2026 Take Action Lab term by October 3.

• February 2026 term: February 2 – May 29
• Final deadline: October 3, 2025

• August 2026 term: August 10 – December 4
• Apply by October 3, 2025 for priority consideration

Take Action Lab Accelerator

Enrolled college or university students up to 22 years old can apply for the 2026 Accelerator summer program by October 3 for priority consideration.

• June 2026 term: June 15 – August 14
• Apply by October 3, 2025 for priority consideration

Take Action Lab and Accelerator applicants can select from two real world learning experiences:

Take Action Lab: Human Rights 

• Cape Town, South Africa 
• An immersive semester based on a unique curriculum anchored in 10 human
  rights focus areas. 
• Includes apprenticeships with local organizations in Cape Town, advancing
  universal human rights through food security, education, women’s rights, youth
  empowerment, and services for refugees and migrants.  

Take Action Lab: Environment & Sustainability 

• Georgetown, Penang Island, Malaysia  
• An environmental and systems-focused curriculum rooted in the Nine Planetary
  Boundaries. 
• Includes apprenticeships with local organizations advancing sustainability,
  protecting nature, and building climate-resilient communities.

Contact
tiltingfutures@iie.org

This program is funded by Tilting Futures, a nonprofit organization on a mission to make immersive global learning a universal rite of passage for every young person. Tilting Futures is accredited by the Gap Year Association for meeting the highest standards in risk management and program quality.

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