NYLT is a six-day course that emphasizes hands-on learning in a fun, engaging environment. Through a blend of activities, presentations, challenges, discussions, and games, participants will develop confidence and leadership abilities while working together as a team.

The course content is designed to build leadership concepts progressively, using practical exercises to reinforce learning. Participants embark on a Quest for the Meaning of Leadership, which brings the leadership lessons to life as they apply their skills throughout the course.

In order to attend an NYLT course, youth must meet the following qualifications by the beginning of the course:

- Must be a registered member of a Scouting unit.
- Must have a current Annual Health and Medical Record form parts A, B, and C.
- Scouts BSA members must be at least 13 years old by the first day of the course and no older than 17 years old. They must also have completed the Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops and achieved the rank of First Class.
- Venturers and Sea Scouts must be at least 14 years old (or 13 and completed eighth grade) and can be no older than 20 years old. They must have completed Introduction to Leadership Skills for Crews or Ships and have some basic camping experience.
- Have a unit leader recommendation.