FAQs

FAQs

Scholars Applications

  • How do I form a group?
To apply for the Impact Scholars Program, you must first form a team. Here’s how:
  • Explore available projects – Check out the Academy Project Gallery and the Partner Project Gallery to find projects that interest you.
  • Join the #ISP-group-formation channel on Discord – Post a message stating which project you’re interested in and find potential teammates.
  • Organize your team independently – Discuss roles, expectations, and project contributions with your new team members.
Note: Individual applications will not be accepted—you must apply as part of a team.
  • How many people can be in a team?
There is a maximum team size of 6 and a minimum of 2, with 4 members recommended for the best collaborative experience. Each applicant may only be part of one team.
  • Will everyone on a team receive the same admission decision?
Yes. Applications are reviewed at the team level, and admission decisions apply to the entire team.
  • When will application decisions be announced?
Application review follows the program timeline. Please check the official  Scholars’ Program timeline  for updates.
  • Can I change teams after submitting my application?
Team membership is expected to remain fixed after submission. If exceptional circumstances arise, please contact the organizers as soon as possible.
  • What mentorship will be provided?
Each accepted team will be assigned a supervisor with expertise in their project domain. Supervisors will:
  • Dedicate 10 hours per month to supporting their team.
  • Meet with scholars twice per month to provide feedback, guidance, and troubleshoot challenges.
  • Assist with task planning, progress tracking, and research development.
  • How many teams will be accepted?
For the 2026 cohort, we expect to select 20 scholar teams, plus one additional team from our partner organization, TReND in Africa. Final numbers may vary depending on the quality of applications and program capacity.

Projects

  • What kinds of projects can teams work on?
Teams may:
  • Continue an Academy project they started during the course.
  • Join a different Academy project.
  • Work on an eligible Partner Project.
  • Can we expand or adapt an existing Academy project?
Yes. Teams are welcome to build on previous Academy work, provided the proposed project has clear goals and is feasible within the program timeline.
  • Can we propose a completely new project?
No. Projects should either continue an Academy project, build on an Academy project, or be based on an available Partner Project.
  • What is a Partner Project?
Partner Projects are research opportunities proposed by external organizations. They provide teams with the opportunity to contribute to real-world research questions while collaborating with partner organizations. More  info here .
  • Who can apply for Partner Projects?
For the 2026 cohort, Partner Projects are only available to scholars from the Computational Neuroscience and Computational Tools for Climate Science Academy courses.

Impact Scholars Supervisor

  • What is the time commitment expected from Impact Scholars Supervisors?
Impact Scholars Supervisors are expected to dedicate 10 hours per month to the program.
  • Can I supervise more than one group of scholars?
Yes, it’s possible. Supervising one group requires approximately 10 hours per month.
If you are able to commit 20 hours per month and your expertise aligns with two different projects, we may assign you to two groups—dedicating 10 hours per month to each.
  • How will I communicate with scholars?
Communication with scholars can be done through Discord, email, or other preferred communication channels. Impact Scholars Supervisors are encouraged to be accessible and responsive to scholars’ questions and needs.
  • Will I receive compensation for my role as an Impact Scholars Supervisors?
Yes, Impact Scholars Supervisors will receive a stipend of $300 per month for supervising one group of scholars, based on a commitment of 10 hours per month.