Thiel Fellowship

Scholarship Sponsored by Thiel Fellowship

The Thiel Fellowship, established in 2011 by tech entrepreneur and investor Peter Thiel, is a two-year initiative designed for young innovators eager to create new things. Instead of attending college, Thiel Fellows are given a $100,000 grant and gain access to the Thiel Foundation's extensive network of founders, investors, and scientists.

Understanding the Fellowship

The Thiel Fellowship is a two-year program that provides a $200,000 grant to young individuals who prefer innovation over traditional classroom learning.

Grant Distribution

The grant of $200,000 is disbursed over a two-year period. The Thiel Foundation does not claim any equity in your venture.

Eligibility Age

The fellowship is open to anyone 22 years old or younger who does not hold a university degree.

Application While in School

Yes, you can apply while still in school. However, if chosen, you will need to leave school to accept the fellowship.

Requirement to Leave School

Yes, you must leave school to accept the fellowship.

Eligibility with a University Degree

No, if you have an undergraduate or graduate degree, you are not eligible.

Company or Idea Requirement

You are not required to have a fully formed company or product. However, you must show significant progress towards a tangible vision.

Eligibility of Non-Software Engineers

No, the fellowship is not exclusive to software engineers. Past Thiel Fellows have included programmers, nonprofit founders, consumer product creators, media company founders, and hardware builders. The fellowship aims to support young individuals eager to bring their ideas to life.

Team Requirement

No, applications are reviewed and accepted on an individual basis.

Relocation to San Francisco

No, Thiel Fellows are located globally.

Application Deadline

No, applications are accepted throughout the year. If you have an exciting project, apply immediately.