Rigour
Every claim is traceable to data, method and sample. No shortcuts, no marketing statistics.
An organisation built on one belief: young people deserve better guidance
Global Youth Decision Lab is an international, youth-driven research initiative. We study how education systems prepare — or fail to prepare — students for the decisions that shape their adult lives.
Our Mission
The power of every single individual, aimed at an educated world
Global Youth Decision Lab seeks the power of every single individual to fight for an educated world. The purpose behind this organisation is to identify the holes in each educational system internationally — whether at the level of an individual school or an entire country.
Our initial mission is dedicated solely to high schoolers who are about to take a life-changing decision: college.
CORE BELIEF
Unique through embodying the worldwide
An education problem observed in one country is rarely unique to it. By working across borders from day one, we can compare systems honestly, borrow what works, and give every partner school an international frame of reference.
- Evidence before opinion
- Students as co-authors, never subjects
- Open access, always
- Guidance that respects the person, not just the grades
Background Story
How GYDL began — a note from the founder
The idea had been quietly growing in my mind for several months, but it finally crystallised in June 2026. Just one week later, I reached out to the people whose expertise could help refine the concept and provide the scientific foundation needed to turn it into reality. Together with our pilot schools, we began shaping what I hope will become a meaningful resource for students and their families.
This project is deeply personal. It reflects my long-standing passion for psychology and my belief that choosing a university is far more than selecting a degree — it is about understanding who we are, recognising our strengths, and finding a path that truly matches our potential.
Every year, thousands of students face one of the most important decisions of their lives with limited guidance and considerable uncertainty. I believe they deserve better. My goal is to bridge psychology, education and research to help young people make informed, confident and authentic decisions about their future.
This is only the beginning of a journey, but I hope it will contribute to a future where every student chooses a university not by chance or pressure, but through self-discovery, evidence and purpose.
Our Values
Four principles that govern every study we publish
Ethics
Minors are involved with consent, anonymity and care. Wellbeing outranks any research goal.
Openness
Findings are published free of charge, in plain language, for the people they describe.
Impact
A study that does not reach a policymaker or a classroom is unfinished work.
Roadmap
Where we are going next
Pilot schools & methodology
Co-designing the decision framework with our first partner schools and scientific advisors.
International research rounds
Comparative studies across countries, with findings published openly for schools and families.
Reviews & policy advocacy
A dedicated review space featuring leading voices in education, plus formal policy submissions to governments.
Get involved
Help us build the evidence base
Schools, researchers and students are all part of this work. Choose the door that fits you.