The Minimum: 3 Months
Three months is the minimum we recommend because that's how long it takes to complete a full project cycle:
- Month 1: Define your research question, initial literature review, methodology design
- Month 2: Execute, data collection, content creation, or research implementation
- Month 3: Synthesise findings, prepare final deliverable, presentation
Shorter than 3 months and you're cutting corners. The project won't have the depth that makes it meaningful on an application.
The Sweet Spot: 4-6 Months
Most students stay 4-6 months. The extra time allows for:
- A more polished final deliverable
- Time to pivot if the initial direction doesn't work (this happens and it's fine)
- A second project or extension of the first
- More sessions for application strategy alongside the project
When to Start
Ideally, start in Grade 10 or early Grade 11. This gives you time to: 1. Complete a full project (3-6 months) 2. Let it sit and mature 3. Reference it authentically in applications and interviews 4. Have your mentor write a letter of recommendation based on sustained observation
Starting in Grade 12 is possible but tight. You'll be building a project and writing applications simultaneously.
The Cancel-Anytime Policy
There's no lock-in. Subscribe monthly, cancel anytime. We'd rather have a student who's engaged for 3 months than one who's going through the motions for 12.