The Presidential Youth Leadership Conference (PYIC) seeks to identify students with demonstrated leadership potential and a history of academic achievement who will contribute to the strength and character of the Conference–outstanding individuals representing a variety of backgrounds and possessing a broad range of interests and goals. PYIC also hopes to attract the most mature and independent individuals possible within this age group.

Alumni of the Congressional Youth Leadership Council and National Youth Leadership Forum, who will still be in high school at the time of the inauguration, receive invitations to attend this extraordinary conference the year prior to the program. PYIC will next be held in January of 2009, following the 2008 presidential election.