The centre-back, who is the son of ex-England and Manchester United star Rio, is one of the teens who helped the Seagulls’ under-21s reach the Sussex Transport Senior Cup final last season.
He is joined by Sebastien Ademola, Younes Ibrahim, Isaiah Alakiu, Adam Brett, Liam Crutchett, Henry Kasvosve, Jesse Middleton and Theo Outen, as well as new signings George Munday and Oliver Mayer, a goalkeeper who recently arrived from Fulham.
Ferdinand, a commanding figure at the back, is following his brother Lorenz, a goalkeeper, through the Albion ranks.
Former Albion under-18s head coach Bjorn Hamberg said last season: “Tate Ferdinand is Tate Ferdinand and he needs to be play his game and have his pathway and career.
“For us as a team, for the under-18s as a captain, he is a big voice in our dressing room.
“He is obviously a leader in the back line and playing very well for the moment.”
Kasvosve, a versatile attacking player, and striker Brett have represented Wales and defender Alakiu has played for the Philippines, all at youth international level.
Crutchett is a left-back who has arrived from non-league Hertford Town last summer while centre-back Ademola has represented Norway youth.
Midfielders Ibrahim and Middleton both featured in the Senior Cup final and Outen has played in defence for the under-18s.
Munday is a striker who recently signed from Cambridge United.
Albion will send an under-21s side to Worthing on Tuesday, July 21 (7.30pm) as part of their pre-season schedule.