HMUN vs YMUN: Which Program Is Right for You?
Boston versus New Haven in January: HMUN is the older, larger, more procedurally traditional conference where big delegations chase best-delegate gavels; YMUN runs slightly smaller with a reputation for creative committees and first-timer friendliness. Competitive MUN teams often hit both in one season, so the real question is which suits your first big-conference experience.
Below is a side-by-side comparison of Harvard Model United Nations (HMUN) and Yale Model United Nations (YMUN). A blank row is a fact we do not hold — not a zero, and not a no.
| HMUN | YMUN | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $30 | |
| Application deadline | October 9, 2026 | |
| Grade eligibility | Grades 9–12 | Grades 9–12 |
| Format | In person | In person |
| Location | Boston, MA, USA | New Haven, CT, USA |
| Program dates | January 21, 2027 | |
| Application destination | harvardmun.org | ymun.org |
| Organizer | Harvard International Relations Council | Yale International Relations Association |
Harvard Model United Nations (HMUN)
Yale Model United Nations (YMUN)
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, HMUN or YMUN?
YMUN: $30. Confirm each figure on the program's official page before budgeting.
Can I apply to both HMUN and YMUN?
The application destinations are evaluated independently. HMUN: harvardmun.org. YMUN: ymun.org. Review each provider's current instructions before assuming either application is open or compatible with the other.
Which is better for college applications, HMUN or YMUN?
We do not rank enrichment programs by admissions value. Use the comparison to assess whether each program's documented constraints fit your situation, and check the details that decide it for you on each program's official page.
What grades can apply to HMUN and YMUN?
HMUN: Grades 9–12. YMUN: Grades 9–12. Eligibility can change between cycles, so confirm it on each program's official page before applying.