Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply to this program?

The program has separate tracks for high school students (grades 9-12) and middle school students (grades 6-8) from around the world. High school students taking a gap year (s) are also eligible to apply.

Can international students apply?

Yes, students from around the world are welcome to apply.

Who are the mentors that run this program?

Qualia Global Scholars is organized by Stanford University undergraduate and graduate students. The program is also advised by experts from other prestigious institutions such as Harvard, MIT, Yale, and Princeton.

How does the program work? Do I need to attend in-person sessions?

The entire program is delivered virtually through live cohort-based online sessions. Students are not required to travel or attend any in-person sessions.

When does the program take place?

Accepted students will be able to pick one of the monthly cohorts from June to August 2024 and are matched into groups based on factors such as time zone/availability, grade/age group, interests, and prior experience.

Do I need prior expertise in any area to do well in this program?

Students do not need prior experience in any areas covered in the program to get accepted or to do well. We are looking for candidates with a passion for learning and impact.

How competitive are admissions?

While we aim to admit as many qualified candidates as we can, the admissions process is competitive since we have a limited number of Stanford undergraduate and graduate students who can mentor students at a highly-personalized level.

Is there an application fee for applying to this program?

Applications to this program are free of cost.

How much does it cost to attend this program?

The total program fee is US$ 970. Qualia Global Scholars Program is focused on democratizing access to educational opportunities for students from all backgrounds, including low-income and underrepresented communities. The program fee makes it possible for us to run the program, provide need-based financial aid, and support our social impact education projects.

Does the program offer any financial aid?

Need-based financial aid is available for a limited number of applicants from low-income backgrounds. Qualifying applicants will be able to apply for financial aid as part of the program application.

What is the time commitment for this program?

This program is designed to be an academic enrichment program outside school. Students should expect to spend at least 2-3 hours of class each week and additional hours on their projects based on their interests and availability.

Can I submit my project for additional competitions or programs?

Absolutely. Students have complete ownership of their projects. We encourage and guide students to make the most of their projects through further opportunities.

How can I increase my chances of getting admitted?

We follow a holistic admission process that considers all aspects of an application. We are not just looking for traditional metrics such as GPAs and test scores. Applicants are selected based on their passion, potential, and the value they add to the cohort.

Can the Stanford mentors advise on college applications?

Of course. One of the major goals of the program is for the students to receive guidance and support for college applications and leadership initiatives from Stanford students who have been accepted to the most selective universities with prestigious scholarship offers.