Primary and Secondary Selection: First, the ASC Cambodia cuts applications down to five times as many as the maximum number of recipients allotted for Cambodia, based on academic records; then the ASC Cambodia interviews each of these nominees, scores written essay in the local language and make a shortlist. The ASC Cambodia prepares an English shortlist, including the final scores and rankings, and submits it to the HGC for the final selection.

Essay Subject: The theme for the written essay changes every year: the ASC Cambodia prepares the list of recommended themes for the discretion at the HGC in Tokyo. It will be announced prior to the start of the application process.

Final Selection: Every early November, the HGC holds a selection meeting to decide the YES Award recipients. The actual number of the recipients for a particular year may vary and could be fewer in total than the maximum number allotted for Cambodia.