Question 1

What is the application process?

Accepted Answer

Stage 1: Z Combinator accepts applications on a rolling basis each spring. Our application window closes once all openings are filled, and no later than June 15.

Stage 2: Z Combinator invites select Fellow candidates to complete a brief video interview.

Stage 3: Z Combinator invites finalists to a virtual 30-min live interview with our team. Candidates will also submit 3 professional references at this time.

Stage 4: Fellowship invitations are sent on a rolling basis.

Stage 5: Final fellowship dates will be announced no later than June. Once these dates are released, Fellows' acceptance will be contingent on the ability to attend all sessions.

Question 2

What is the Z Combinator dress code?

Accepted Answer

As you will be in Zeta schools, professional dress is required.

Zeta implements a "business casual" dress code, which means: (1) well maintained button-down shirt or professionally appropriate top, (2) professionally appropriate dress slacks or skirt, (3) professionally appropriate dress, (4) dress socks/hose, and (5) close-toe dress shoes. When touring, observing, or shadowing in schools, single-color sneakers are also appropriate for walking/standing comfort.

Zeta occasionally implements dress-down days as specified in advance, which means: (1) professionally appropriate top and jeans or equivalent (no holes, rips, etc.), professionally appropriate shoes (does not include flip flops, beach shoes, gym shoes, etc.).

Question 3

Whom should I contact if I have more questions?

Accepted Answer

If you have additional questions about Z Combinator, please contact us at zcombinator@zetaschools.org.(mailto:zcombinator@zetaschools.org)

Question 4

Am I eligible to apply for the Z Combinator Fellowship?

Accepted Answer

The 2025-26 Z Combinator Fellowship Program supports charter school founders who are opening their schools in the Fall of 2026. If you fit this criteria, please apply!

Question 5

When are the 2025-26 Z Combinator sessions?

Accepted Answer

• Session I: Mon., July 14, 2025 – Fri., July 25, 20245 (including travel to/from NYC)
 • Session II: Mon., September 15, 2025 – Sat., September 20, 2025 (including travel to/from NYC)
 • Virtual 1-hour Session: Wed., Oct. 29, 2025 (Zoom meeting)
 • Virtual 1-hour Session: Wed., Nov. 19, 2025 (Zoom meeting)
 • Session III: Mon., Jan. 12, 2026 – Sat., Jan. 17, 2026 (including travel to/from NYC)

Question 6

If I am unable to attend all sessions, should I still apply?

Accepted Answer

No. Because the Z Combinator Fellowship is grant-funded, we must ensure that all Fellows will attend each session and will not be able to admit anyone who is only able to partially complete the full Fellowship.

Question 7

What is the time commitment for Z Combinator?

Accepted Answer

Fellows are expected to attend all ~22 days in-person in NYC and two virtual sessions as well as complete deliverables between sessions. You should expect to spend a minimum of 20 hours working on deliverables between each session, though you may spend much more time, as all your hard work will lead to an even stronger school launch!

Question 8

Is there a cost associated with being a part of the program?

Accepted Answer

The Z Combinator Fellowship is fully funded by Zeta Charter Schools. We cover the cost of tuition, transportation, lodging, and food.

Question 9

When is the 2025-26 Fellowship application deadline?

Accepted Answer

The application deadline is May 30, 2025.

However, we fill seats on a rolling basis starting in mid-April. We encourage you to apply sooner rather than later!

Question 10

I'm not a Year 0 founder; are their other opportunities to learn from Z Combinator?

Accepted Answer

Zeta Charter Schools, operators of Z Combinator, also holds school tours so that other leaders/educators can learn from our model and practices. If you are interested in touring a Zeta school, please contact us at zcombinator@zetaschools.org.(mailto:zcombinator@zetaschools.org)

Frequently Asked Questions