Back to School 2026: The Next 25 Years Begin Here | Early Bird Ends June 30

For 25 years, the most influential leaders in higher education, business, government, investment, and technology have gathered in New York City to examine the forces shaping the future.

From September 15-17 2026, Back to School returns for its milestone 25th edition.

This anniversary arrives at a pivotal moment: Competition for talent is intensifying. The balance of economic power is shifting. Universities, employers, investors, and policymakers are confronting profound demographic, technological, and geopolitical change. 

The questions have never been more consequential: 

• What is higher education for? 
• How do we prepare people for a world we cannot predict? 
• Is the pathway from learning to work being rewritten? 
• What will make universities relevant in the decade ahead? 

More than 500 university presidents, CEOs, investors, foundation leaders, policymakers, and innovators will gather in New York to tackle these questions through strategic briefings, executive roundtables, fireside conversations, and curated networking. 

Rates increase from July 1

We know Back to School will hit full capacity, so we encourage you to secure your place as soon as possible. 

The next 25 years starts here.

Looking forward to seeing you there.

Best wishes,

QS Team