United Nations Advanced Training (UNAT)

For Rising 11th & 12th Grade High School Students

Enhance your college prospects with our prestigious United Nations Advanced Training Program.

The UNAT offers a comprehensive global leadership experience designed to empower outstanding high school students to succeed in higher education.

Engage with top diplomats at the United Nations and be mentored by U.S. elected officials in this once in a lifetime opportunity this summer 2024.

Unleash your potential and set the stage for a future marked by academic and leadership distinction.

2018

Program Started

100%

Admitted to Top 30 Universities in the World

1510

Average SAT Score

4.2

Average High School GPA

The Ultimate Leadership Program

for High-Achieving High School Students

Differentiate Yourself in Highly-Selective Training Opportunity

Elevate yourself to a college-level training that sets you apart from your peers.

Extremely Rare Exposure to World-Renowned Organizations

Expand your understanding of global relations from the United Nations, World Bank, IMF, and U.S. Congress.

Explore New York & Washington, D.C.

As part of our program, you’ll enjoy privileged access to restricted areas of the U.S. Capitol.

Letter of Recommendation

Upon program completion, receive a Letter of Recommendation in Global Leadership, recognized by college admissions committees. This is a testament to your commitment to academic and leadership excellence.

Our Solutions

Take advantage of these unique and special values.

What do I learn from this program?
Part I

Professional Development

Develop a wide array of professional skills, from presentation, communication, teamwork, and time management, that are highly required for all leaders.

What do I learn from this program?
Part II

Global Perspective

Get a firsthand look at the collaboration between different government bodies as they work on international goals and projects under the direction of the United Nations.

What do I learn from this program?
Part III

Intercultural Exposure

Expose students to cultural diversity, enabling them to create a positive impact on a global scale. Also, engage in cultural exchange with other students and business people from all over the world.

What kind of people do I meet?

Networking

Engage with important and influential leaders and policymakers as you grow and expand your professional network.

Where is this program offered at?

Explore the 2 Most Important Cities

Explore two of the most important and influential cities in the U.S.: New York City and Washington, D.C. Enjoy a private tour to restricted areas of the historical U.S. Capitol. Also, appreciate the cultural aspects, monuments, and landmarks of this diverse country.

Do I get something for my college application?

Letter of Recommendation

Become more desirable to the Ivy League and other top universities in the U.S. by differentiating both your college application and personal essays.

Our Goals for You

Gain a competitive edge in your future applications.

Whether for college, internship, or job application, your participation in the UNAT stands out as a key differentiator.

Application to the universities of your choice will continue to be fiercely competitive, and this goes the same for getting an internship position in college. Since many attractive positions will require prior experience, this college-level opportunity will get you a leg up. Consider it as an equivalent to an AP course in work experience, providing you with the edge needed to excel in both academic pursuits and professional endeavors.

Become a better version of yourself and take the lead!

By joining the UNAT, you will embark on a transformative experience that will elevate your global perspective, cultural sensitivity, and essential leadership skills.

Your engagement with peers from various backgrounds, participation in immersive activities, and brainstorming about global challenges will enable you to develop critical thinking, communication, and adaptability.

This 10-day intensive summer activity lays the groundwork for networking, personal growth, and exposure to different leadership styles — tools that you will need to navigate the complexities of this dynamic global landscape.

Ultimately, we want you to become well-rounded individuals who are ready to spearhead global success in the years to come.

Distinguished Organizations We Work With

Stanley Prep works with world-renowned international organizations to offer a premium leadership training program for top-performing high school students.

The World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) is a global nonprofit organization representing and coordinating a membership of over 100 national United Nations Associations (UNAs) and their thousands of constituents.

Guided by their vision of a United Nations that is a powerful force in meeting common global challenges and opportunities, WFUNA works to strengthen and improve the United Nations.

WFUNA achieves this through the engagement of people who share a global mindset and support international cooperation – global citizens.

The World Bank  is an international financial institution that provides loans and grants to the governments of low- and middle-income countries to pursue capital projects.

The World Bank is the collective name for the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and International Development Association (IDA), two of five international organizations owned by the World Bank Group. It was established along with the International Monetary Fund at the 1944 Bretton Woods Conference.

For the last 30 years, it has included NGOs and environmental groups in its loan portfolio. Its loan strategy is influenced by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, as well as environmental and social safeguards.

The IMF is a global organization that works to achieve sustainable growth and prosperity for all of its 190 member countries. It does so by supporting economic policies that promote financial stability and monetary cooperation, which are essential to increase productivity, job creation, and economic well-being. The IMF is governed by and accountable to its member countries.

The World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) is a global nonprofit organization representing and coordinating a membership of over 100 national United Nations Associations (UNAs) and their thousands of constituents.

Guided by their vision of a United Nations that is a powerful force in meeting common global challenges and opportunities, WFUNA works to strengthen and improve the United Nations.

WFUNA achieves this through the engagement of people who share a global mindset and support international cooperation – global citizens.

The World Bank is an international financial institution that provides loans and grants to the governments of low- and middle-income countries to pursue capital projects.

The World Bank is the collective name for the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and International Development Association (IDA), two of five international organizations owned by the World Bank Group. It was established along with the International Monetary Fund at the 1944 Bretton Woods Conference.

For the last 30 years, it has included NGOs and environmental groups in its loan portfolio. Its loan strategy is influenced by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, as well as environmental and social safeguards.

The IMF is a global  organization that works to achieve sustainable growth and prosperity for all of its 190 member countries. It does so by supporting economic policies that promote financial stability and monetary cooperation, which are essential to increase productivity, job creation, and economic well-being. The IMF is governed by and accountable to its member countries.

Congressman Jimmy Gomez represents California’s 34th Congressional District. He is a member of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, House Committee on Ways and Means, and serves as an Assistant Whip. Prior to this, he served in the California State Assembly and was a champion of paid family leave and combating climate change.

Congressman Gomez is also a member of several caucuses and played a key role in drafting legislation on issues such as public health, environmental justice, water conservation, education, civic engagement, campaign finance, LGBT rights, and affordable housing.

Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland represents Washington’s 10th Congressional District, covering parts of Pierce and Thurston Counties. Before becoming a congresswoman, Strickland was the President and CEO of the Seattle Metro Chamber of Commerce and served two terms as the mayor of Tacoma.

She is the first African-American and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress. Strickland is a member of several caucuses and committees in the 118th Congress, including the House Armed Services Committee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

Congressman Andy Kim represents New Jersey’s Third Congressional District. He has worked as a public servant under both Democrats and Republicans, and has served at USAID, the Pentagon, the State Department, the White House National Security Council, and in Afghanistan as an advisor to Generals Petraeus and Allen.

In the House of Representatives, he is focused on bringing the country together and strengthening national and economic security. He supports measures to boost the economy, create fairness for working families, and honor America’s promises to military families and veterans.

Program Format

Date Duration

June 10th-19th, 2024

10 days
     • 5 days for the UN training in New York
     • 5 days in Washington, D.C.

*Disclaimer: Program may be cancelled at any time due to unforeseen circumstances.

Program Contents

United Nations Advanced Training Program (UNAT)

This program, provided by the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA), gives students the opportunity to engage with diplomats and the UN staff directly at their headquarters in New York. The UNAT is a program designed to help students learn about the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals and the decision-making process of international organizations.

The UNAT provides a variety of unique experiences such as seminars, mentoring sessions, and career lectures at the UN headquarters. This program also includes visits to the major institutions within the UN headquarters, as well as the chance to learn directly from former and current diplomats. Working luncheons with UN staff members give our students the opportunity to make valuable connections for future career consulting, especially for those looking to work at the United Nations. This will help students prepare for their future careers and expose them to the skills necessary to be competitive professionals in the global market.

Program Schedule

Day 1: UN Sustainable Development Goals
Day 2: Multilateral Diplomacy and Peace Security
Day 3: International Development and Cooperation
Day 4: Environmental and Human Rights
Day 5: UN Career Path and Internship

Field Trip: Washington, D.C.

Students who participate in this trip will gain exclusive insights into one of the world’s most robust governments and will witness first-hand how the U.S. protects and upholds its international partnerships.

The U.S. Capitol

  • The U.S. Capitol stands as the official seat of the United States Congress, the legislative branch of the U.S. federal government. Serving as the meeting place for the Senate and the House of Representatives, this iconic symbol of American democracy houses important historical and cultural artifacts as well as hosts legislative activities and ceremonies.
  • Engage in an intimate discussion within 2-3 congressional offices and gain insights into the legislative processes in this exclusive private tour to the restricted areas of the U.S. Capitol.

Other destinations:

  • Lincoln Memorial
  • Smithsonian Museums
  • Korean War Veterans Memorial

Accommodations

Depending on room availability, participants will stay at one of these three hotels:

Hampton Inn Manhattan Grand Central

  • Located right next to Grand Central Station
  • 5-minute walk to the United Nations Headquarters
  • Double occupancy
  • Adult supervision provided

Grand Hyatt New York

  • Connected to Grand Central Terminal
  • 10-minute walk to the United Nations Headquarters
  • Double occupancy
  • Adult supervision provided

Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza

  • Located in Midtown Manhattan on the United Nations campus
  • 439 guest rooms and suites with city skyline or East River views
  • 2-minute walk to the United Nations Headquarters
  • Double occupancy
  • Adult supervision provided

Hyatt Place Chantilly, VA

  • Located less than 15 minutes from Dulles International Airport
  • Free high-speed wifi
  • Double occupancy
  • Adult supervision provided
  • Small breakfast provided

How to Apply

Application Deadline for Summer 2024: April 30, 2024

1. Rising 11th and 12th-grade high school students
2. Minimum high school GPA of 3.5
3. English fluency
4. Applicants who are not restricted from traveling to the U.S.
1. Rising 11th and 12th-grade high school students
2. Minimum high school GPA of 3.5
3. English fluency
4. Applicants who are not restricted from traveling to the U.S.

For High School Students

1. Official high school transcript
2. Official SAT score (if applicable)
3. Copy of Picture ID
4. English resume and cover letter (MS Word file, after accepted)

For College Students

1. Official college transcript 
2. Copy of Picture ID
3. Resume & cover letter

*All documents must be submitted in English.

Program Fee

$8,500

What's included:

Seminars & lectures, New York City & Washington, D.C. hotel accommodation, 3 meals a day, site visits, and Washington, D.C. local transportation.

*Sibling discount available for enrolled siblings in the same season

Program Fee: $8,500
What's included:
Seminars & lectures, New York City & Washington DC hotel accommodation, 3 meals a day, site visits, and Washington DC., local transportation

*Sibling discount available for enrolled siblings in the same season

1. Submit online application, including the application fee and required documents
2. Interview via video call to demonstrate personal character and English proficiency

A second online interview may be requested.

1. Acceptance letter issued
2. Invoice for program fee issued
4. Pay the Stanley Prep Program Fees via wire transfer

1. Purchase travel insurance
2. Obtain a U.S visa for a short-term stay (for overseas participants)
  • It is the responsibility of participants to obtain a valid visitor’s visa for US entry if they are traveling from a country that does not participate in the visa waiver program.

  • Stanley Prep will provide a visa support letter upon request.
3. Arrange transportation
  • Participants shall arrive and depart from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.

*Disclaimer: Program may be cancelled at any time due to unforeseen circumstances.

Learn How We Have Helped Our Participants

At first, I think this is really informative. Through visiting various places, it was really interesting and I think this is a really good chance to experience the real US. I want to recommend this program especially to my friend who wants to participate in the UN program.

Picture of Jiwoo Choi

Jiwoo Choi

Annie Wright Schools '20

Through the Stanley Prep GLI program, I did a 3- week internship with the office of Congressman Jimmy Gomez. I learned a lot from this internship— it gave me a strong idea of what it would be like to work in politics and public policy, and I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the job that I got to do. Overall, this was a great opportunity that helped me learn and grow in many ways, and I’m so glad that I was able do this program.

Picture of Olivia Phillips

Olivia Phillips

Harvard-Westlake '25

Frequently Asked Questions

What is WFUNA?

The World Federation of United Nations Association (WFUNA) connects the UN member countries with their citizens through education and training to promote global citizenship. WFUNA is a global non-profit organization that aims to promote student engagement in international relations.

How do UNAT & UNT differ?

UNAT is highly selective and has eligibility requirements. During UNAT you will complete several projects and will receive the letter of recommendation upon completion of the course. UNT is for more widely selected applicants from 8th grade. Students will have seminars from different organizations within UN and will receive the certification at the end of the course.

When will I receive a Letter of Recommendation for U.S. university admissions offices?

Admissions offices in the U.S. review Letters of Recommendation to gain insight into a student’s leadership potential and contribution made to the community. Within 1 week of the completion of UNAT course, WFUNA will mail out the Recommendation Letter to each students that will portray your leadership and intellectual potential. If you would like the Letters of Recommendation to be submitted directly to each university according to submission protocols, please contact Stanley Prep as soon as your university application is submitted.

How can I apply for the program?

Individuals interested in applying for the summer GL programs may do so by submitting an application on the Stanley Prep website at least 90 days prior to the start date of the desired program.

Is a U.S. visa required?

This program is a short-term training program in the U.S.  Applicants from countries not participating in the Visa Waiver Program with the U.S. are required to obtain a short-term visa. Stanley Prep will provide a visa support letter upon request. Applicants from countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program with the U.S. require authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

Who should I contact in the event of an emergency?

In the event of an emergency, participants should notify Stanley Prep as soon as possible. As a U.S.-based company, Stanley Prep is prepared to quickly provide support through various local networks. Participants should call 911 if presented with a life-threatening medical or safety emergency. Please note that 911 should only be called in serious situations that require an immediate response from police officers and medical personnel. In all other cases, Stanley Prep should be the first point of contact and we will work to help you resolve any issues that may arise.