How is Nova Scholar different from other mentorship programs?

Nova stands out for its exceptional mentors—all are either current students or alumni of top-tier universities like Harvard, Stanford, Yale, Princeton, and MIT. Nova offers a unique blend of personalized mentorship, project-based learning, and access to publication and patent opportunities.

Are Nova programs online or in-person?

All Nova programs are conducted online, allowing students to participate from anywhere in the world.

What programs do you recommend for middle school students (grades 6–8)?

Middle school students are encouraged to begin with Nova AI Fundamentals or Nova Research to explore essential AI knowledge or engage in in-depth inquiry.

What programs do you recommend for high school students (grades 9–12)?

High school students can engage in Nova Research or Nova Patent, where they conduct scholarly research or develop and patent complex inventions.

How do I know which program is right for me?

Contact us via the site or email, and our team will help you choose the program based on your grade, interests, and goals.

What topics can I study at Nova?

You can study topics ranging from 19th-century literature to convolutional neural networks. Projects are fully customized and can include machine learning, environmental research, and more.

Do I need specific coursework or experience to apply?

No prior coursework is required. Nova is open to beginners as well as advanced students.

Does Nova Scholar help students brainstorm their project idea in Nova Research and Patent?

Yes. Students refine their focus with mentor guidance in Nova Research and develop ideas through interviews in Nova Patent.

Is Nova Scholar a summer program?

Yes! Nova runs summer and year-round sessions. Many students enroll in two tracks during the summer for a deeper experience.

I want to refer a friend to the program. How do referral bonuses work?

Your friend should enter your email in the application. If accepted, you'll receive a referral email and discount code.

Is Nova Scholar “Pay-to-Play”?

Nova charges tuition to support mentors and operations but offers selective admissions and financial aid to ensure accessibility.

What is program tuition?

Nova Research Standard: $2,900. Nova Research Premium: $4,950. Nova Patent: $4,499. Nova AI: $490.

FAQ | Nova Scholar Mentorship & Innovation Programs

Q: What is Nova Scholar?

Nova is a mentorship-driven program that empowers students through personalized, project-based learning. Specializing in AI, research, patent development, and more, Nova connects students with expert mentors from top-25 universities—including Harvard, Stanford, Yale, Princeton, and MIT—guiding them toward achieving their academic and career aspirations.

About Nova Scholar

What is Nova Scholar and how does it help students?

a- Nova Scholar is an online mentorship program helping middle and high school students build impressive academic portfolios through hands-on projects. Students work with mentors from top 25 universities like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, Yale, and Princeton to create real achievements: published research papers, AI-powered apps in the App Store, filed patents, and competition-ready projects.
b- Our programs prepare students for college admissions, STEM careers, and scholarship opportunities through personalized, project-based learning that creates tangible outcomes admissions officers recognize.

How is Nova Scholar different from other online enrichment programs for students?

a-Three things set Nova Scholar apart:
     i- Elite mentors from top universities: Every mentor is a student or alumni from a top 25 university with real expertise in their field
     ii-Real outcomes, not busywork: Students graduate with tangible achievements like published papers, App Store products, patent applications, and competition wins
    iii- Project-based learning instead of lectures: Students solve real problems and create portfolio-worthy work rather than taking tests.
b- Parents choose Nova Scholar because their kids gain achievements that actually stand out on college applications and scholarship submissions.

Are Nova Scholar programs online or in-person for middle and high school students?

a- All Nova Scholar programs are fully online, so students can participate from anywhere in the world. No travel required. Expert mentorship is delivered through virtual sessions, giving families flexibility while maintaining the same quality as in-person programs.

Which Nova Scholar program is right for my middle school or high school student?

a- Here's the quick guide by grade level:
   i- Middle School (Grades 6 to 8):
          1- Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs: 4-week intro to AI, healthcare, or business ($490)
          2- Nova Scholar Research Program: 10 to 20 weeks of one-on-one mentorship to write and publish an original research paper ($2,900 to $4,950)
        3- Nova Scholar Research Competition Bootcamp: 6-week prep for science fairs and competitions if you already have a completed project ($1,750)
     ii-High School (Grades 9 to 12):
             1- Nova Scholar Research Program: Publish original research with expert guidance ($2,900 to $4,950)
            2- Nova Scholar AI Product Launch: Design, build, and launch an AI app with patent filing support ($4,499)
            3- Nova Scholar Research Competition Bootcamp: 6-week prep for science fairs and competitions if you already have a completed project ($1,750)
b- Not sure? Contact our team at admin@novascholar.education and we'll help you choose the best fit.

What subjects and topics can students study at Nova Scholar?

a- Almost anything! Nova Scholar students have explored topics ranging from 19th-century literature to machine learning, from healthcare innovation to environmental science and law.
b- In the Nova Research Program, projects are fully customized to each student's interests. In Nova AI Product Launch, students have built healthcare apps, legal tech tools, and business applications with mentor guidance.
c- Whether your passion is STEM, humanities, social sciences, or interdisciplinary work, Nova Scholar helps you turn ideas into portfolio-ready projects that strengthen college applications.

Do students need prior experience or coursework to apply to Nova Scholar programs?

a- No prior experience required. Nova Scholar accepts students at all levels, from beginners to advanced learners. What matters most is curiosity, commitment, and willingness to learn. Our mentors meet students where they are and help them build real skills from there, regardless of starting point.

Does Nova Scholar help students brainstorm research project ideas and AI app concepts?

a- Yes! Students don't need to arrive with a perfect idea. In the Nova Research Program, mentors help refine broad interests into focused research questions. In Nova AI Product Launch, teams brainstorm together through small group discussions and user interviews.
b- While Nova Scholar provides structured guidance, students take ownership of their ideas, building creativity and problem-solving skills along the way.

Is Nova Scholar a summer enrichment program or available year-round?

a- Both! Nova Scholar runs programs year-round with sessions in summer, fall, winter, and spring. Many students do intensive work over summer, and some even tackle both Research and AI Product Launch programs simultaneously. During the school year, we offer more flexible scheduling that works around academic commitments and extracurriculars.

How long are Nova Scholar programs for middle and high school students?

a- Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs: 4 weeks (8 to 10 hours total)
b- Nova Scholar Research Program: 10 to 20 weeks (2.5 to 4.5 months)
c- Nova Scholar AI Product Launch: 8 to 12 weeks (2 to 3 months)
d- Nova Scholar Research Competition Bootcamp: 6 weeks
e- Program length depends on depth of work and whether students choose accelerated or standard timelines.

How much does Nova Scholar cost and what is included in tuition?

a- Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs: $490
b- Nova Scholar AI Product Launch: $4,499
c- Nova Scholar Research Program: $2,900 (Standard) or $4,950 (Premium)
d- Nova Scholar Research Competition Bootcamp: $1,750
e- Tuition includes all mentorship sessions, platform access, software tools, publication support, and patent filing fees (where applicable).

How do referral bonuses work for Nova Scholar programs?

a- When your friend applies to Nova Scholar, they enter your email in the "How did you hear about us?" section. If they're accepted, you'll receive an email from admin@novascholar.education with next steps for your referral bonus. Only one referral source can be listed per application. Student applicants who get accepted receive a discount code via email.

Is Nova Scholar a pay-to-play program or merit-based?

a- Nova Scholar is merit-based, not pay-to-play. While we charge tuition to fairly compensate our expert mentors and maintain a quality platform, admission is selective. Every applicant goes through an application and interview process. We admit students who show dedication, curiosity, and readiness to grow, not just anyone who can pay.

How can I learn more about Nova Scholar's online programs for students?

a- Three ways to learn more:
     i- Watch our free informational webinar about Nova Scholar programs
    ii- Contact admissions at admin@novascholar.education with specific questions
     iii- Visit our website to see past student projects and outcome
b- Our team is here to help you decide if Nova Scholar is the right fit for your academic goals.

Admissions and Acceptance

What are Nova Scholar's acceptance rates for high school research and AI programs?

Acceptance rates vary by program. Beyond the numbers, Nova Scholar looks for intellectual curiosity, passion for learning, and commitment to working thoughtfully with mentors. Unlike traditional programs, we don't require transcripts or recommendation letters. We assess creativity, dedication, and grit through interviews and conversations.

What are the steps to apply to Nova Scholar programs?

The Nova Scholar application process has four steps:
    1- Complete the online application in under 30 minutes, outlining your interests and goals
   2- If selected, participate in a short video interview (Research Program and AI Product Launch only)
   3- Receive an acceptance decision within 2 to 3 days after the interview
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For Middle School Project Labs, all qualified students are admitted if space is available. Similarly, Nova Scholar Program Alumni do not need a video interview.

See our Application Process page for complete details.

What happens after I submit my Nova Scholar application?

For the Research Program and AI Product Launch, most applicants receive an interview invitation. The admissions team reviews your application, and if accepted, you'll get an offer letter with clear next steps.
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Nova Scholar emphasizes the interview because we want to ensure students have genuine intellectual curiosity, can collaborate effectively, and feel confident discussing their passions. Strong communication and motivation matter more than perfect grades or test scores.

Can I apply to Nova Scholar now and start at a later date?

Yes! Students can apply to Nova Scholar programs in advance and request to defer their start date. When applying, simply indicate your preferred start term: summer, fall, winter, or spring. Our admissions team will accommodate your timing. This lets you secure your spot early while planning around school schedules and other commitments.

Will I receive a certificate of completion from Nova Scholar?

Yes. All students who successfully complete a Nova Scholar program receive an official certificate of completion. This certificate can be included on college applications, resumes, or academic portfolios to showcase the skills and projects you've developed. Email admin@novascholar.education after finishing your program to request your certificate.

Nova AI Product Launch

What is the Nova Scholar AI Product Launch program for high school students?

The Nova Scholar AI Product Launch is an online program for high school students (grades 9 to 12) who want to design, build, and publish a real AI-powered app or software product. Over 2 to 4 months, students:
• Identify a problem worth solving in their community or area of interest
• Design and refine a prototype (MVP) using real user feedback
• Build with AI tools alongside expert mentors from top universities|
• Launch their product in the App Store (or online for web apps)
• File for patent protection with mentor support
No coding experience required, though students interested in advanced programming, UX design, or development can dive deeper. Small group classes (maximum 5 students per mentor) ensure personalized attention from instructors at top 25 universities.

Are project topics predefined in the Nova Scholar AI Product Launch program?

No. The Nova Scholar AI Product Launch is student-driven and personalized. During your application and interview, you share your interests and goals. Nova Scholar forms teams based on those areas, then kicks off the program with brainstorming sessions. Teams refine ideas through user interviews and feedback to ensure the final product is both meaningful and practical.

Students learn to take ownership of their ideas while collaborating effectively with structured mentor support throughout.

Do I need a complete AI app idea before enrolling in Nova Scholar?

Not at all. The Nova Scholar AI Product Launch begins with guided brainstorming where students explore interests and identify problems worth solving. Even students with well-formed ideas will refine them through user interviews, feedback, and mentorship to ensure they're addressing real-world needs and have market viability.

I already have an app idea. Will Nova Scholar help me build it?

Yes! Bring your idea to the Nova Scholar AI Product Launch program. However, final projects are always team decisions. Mentors help evaluate whether ideas are viable, innovative, and supported by real user demand. Through brainstorming and collaboration, teams select the strongest project to move forward.
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Your idea may evolve or combine with others, but you'll gain valuable experience in entrepreneurship, teamwork, and design thinking while learning to turn concepts into real AI products that could be published or patented.

Do I need coding experience to join the Nova Scholar AI Product Launch program?

No prior coursework or coding experience is required to join Nova Scholar AI Product Launch. The program is designed to be accessible to students of all technical backgrounds. However, if you do have programming skills, you'll be able to build more complex and feature-rich AI applications during the program, giving your project additional depth and functionality.

How long does it take to file a patent through Nova Scholar?

Patent filing is integrated directly into the Nova Scholar AI Product Launch program timeline. With dedicated mentor guidance, teams prepare and submit a provisional utility patent application during the program. Nova Scholar ensures you complete the program with a filed patent application and a “patent pending.”

How long is the Nova Scholar AI Product Launch program?

The Nova Scholar AI Product Launch program runs for 2 to 4 months depending on the cohort:
• 8-week accelerated summer session for intensive work during school break
• 16-week school-year program with more time to balance coursework
Both options include mentorship, teamwork, and structured guidance to develop a real-world project that can be published in app stores.

When do Nova Scholar AI Product Launch cohorts meet?

Each Nova Scholar AI Product Launch cohort has a default meeting time Students typically meet with their Nova Scholar mentor once per week. During the summer accelerated program, there's an option for twice-weekly sessions for faster progress. This consistent mentorship ensures students stay on track while building their AI-powered project with expert guidance.

Can I communicate with my Nova Scholar mentor between sessions?

Absolutely. Students can email Nova Scholar mentors with questions or updates between meetings. Most cohorts also set up a group chat for quicker communication and collaboration. This gives students ongoing access to support while encouraging them to take initiative in their work.

Are there additional fees beyond Nova Scholar AI Product Launch tuition?

No. All core costs are included in Nova Scholar AI Product Launch tuition: mobile app development tools, software, and patent filing fees. The only exception is hardware-based IoT projects, where students need access to their own components (3D printers, laser cutters, Arduinos, motors, etc.).

Who owns the app, product, or patent created in Nova Scholar programs?

Students retain full ownership of everything they create in Nova Scholar AI Product Launch. Nova Scholar takes no ownership or rights over student-created work. Students maintain complete control of their innovations, apps, and patent applications.

Does Nova Scholar help students prepare for app competitions and challenges?

Yes. Nova Scholar provides resources, mentorship, and guidance to prepare projects for academic competitions like the Congressional App Challenge, science fairs, and research competitions. Many Nova Scholar mentors have experience competing in or judging these events and offer strategic advice and professional feedback.
Students get support refining projects, polishing presentations, and navigating requirements while taking ownership of their work.

Does Nova Scholar guarantee a live mobile application and/or patent-pending status?

Yes. Students who maintain 75% attendance (12 of 16 classes) and complete their assigned homework are guaranteed to finish the program with either a live, published mobile application or a patent-pending invention.
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If your child doesn't achieve this milestone during the program timeline, our instructors will continue with their project at no additional cost until the project reaches completion and is launched or and filed.

Nova Scholar Research Program

What is the Nova Scholar Research Program for middle and high school students?

The Nova Scholar Research Program pairs students one-on-one with researchers exclusively from top 25 universities, including Harvard, Stanford, and Princeton, to conduct original research and write a paper for publication. Over 10 to 20 weeks, students:
• Explore relevant literature and develop a focused research question
• Design their study methodology with expert guidance
• Conduct analysis using appropriate research tools
• Write and refine a complete academic paper
• Submit their work to youth research journals with support from our publication team
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Two program tracks available:
Standard Track: 9 one-on-one sessions with your research mentor + 1 session with a publication specialist
Premium Track: 15 one-on-one sessions with your research mentor + 5 sessions with a publication specialist for enhanced publication support
By the end, students complete a polished research paper ready for journal submission: a powerful differentiator for college applications that demonstrates intellectual curiosity, academic rigor, and real scholarly achievement.

Should I choose the Nova Research Standard or Premium Track?

Standard Track is perfect for students completing their first research project and submitting to youth research journals.
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‍Premium Track is ideal for students targeting competitive research journals, entering research fairs (like Regeneron ISEF), or wanting more extensive publication support: including help with multiple journal submissions and refinement as needed.

‍Not sure? Our team can help you choose the right track based on your child's goals during your free consultation.

Which grades can participate in the Nova Scholar Research Program?

The Research Program welcomes students in grades 6–12 and gap-year or college-bound students. Whether your child is exploring academic research for the first time or ready for college-level work, our mentors adapt the curriculum to match their experience level.

Beginners build foundational skills in research design, critical analysis, and academic writing. Advanced students tackle sophisticated methodologies and prepare work suitable for competitive research journals and college-level coursework.

Is the Nova Scholar Research Program one-on-one mentorship?

Yes. Every student receives fully personalized, one-on-one mentorship with a dedicated researcher from a top university.
Unlike group programs, this individualized approach includes:
• A custom research syllabus tailored to your child's interests and goals
• Direct access to an expert mentor throughout the entire research process
• Focused guidance on research design, data collection, analysis, and scholarly writing
This level of personalized attention allows students to explore their passions deeply while developing the critical thinking and academic skills that set them apart in college admissions.

What is the structure of the Nova Scholar Research Program?

The program consists of recurring 1-hour mentorship sessions held over 10 to 20 weeks (approximately 2.5 to 5 months), depending on your chosen track:
‍Standard Track: 10 sessions (9 research mentor + 1 publication specialist)
‍Premium Track: 20 sessions (15 research mentor + 5 publication specialist)Sessions typically meet for one hour weekly, providing consistent guidance and momentum. Students in the premium track can opt to hold two sessions per week to complete their research in as little as 2.5 months if their schedule allows.
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This structured timeline ensures students have adequate time for literature review, methodology design, data analysis, and writing—producing publication-ready research papers with expert Nova Scholar guidance throughout.

Can the Nova Scholar Research Program be accelerated?

Quality research cannot be rushed. While students can meet twice weekly to shorten the calendar timeline if in the premium program, this program will take a minimum of 10 weeks. Meaningful academic work requires time for:
• Deep engagement with scholarly literature
• Thoughtful research design and methodology refinement
•Careful data collection and analysis
• Multiple rounds of writing and revision
Even during summer breaks, Nova Scholar maintains rigorous standards to ensure each paper meets publication requirements. Session frequency can be adjusted based on student availability, but we protect the depth and intellectual rigor that makes research truly impressive to colleges and journals.

Is scheduling flexible in the Nova Scholar Research Program?

Yes. While the program follows a structured weekly cadence, we understand students have busy lives. Nova Scholar offers:
Rescheduling options when conflicts arise with school exams, extracurriculars, or family commitments
‍Program pauses for holidays, family travel, or major academic periods (finals, AP exams)
‍Session frequency adjustments to match your child's availability (weekly or twice-weekly meetings)
This flexibility allows students to balance their research project with schoolwork and activities while maintaining steady progress toward completion. Our goal is to make high-quality research mentorship work for your family's schedule.

What if my child faces challenges during the Nova Scholar Research Program?

Life happens, and we understand that. Whether your child encounters personal, family, or academic obstacles, Nova Scholar mentors and program managers provide flexible support to help them stay on track.
We offer:
• Schedule adjustments when conflicts arise
• Additional guidance and resources to work through difficult concepts or research roadblocks
• Encouragement and accountability to maintain momentum
While we encourage students to take ownership of their projects, our team is always available to provide the support needed to successfully complete their research journey. No student is left to struggle alone.

Does my child need a research idea before applying to Nova Scholar?

No. Most students don't have a fully formed research idea when they start—and that's perfectly fine.
During the application and onboarding process, Nova Scholar mentors work closely with your child to:
• Explore their academic interests and passions
• Identify potential research fields and questions
• Refine ideas into focused, feasible research projects
This collaborative process ensures every project is both personally meaningful and academically rigorous. Students take an active role in shaping their research direction with expert guidance every step of the way.

Are there predefined research topics in the Nova Scholar Research Program?

No. The Nova Scholar Research Program is fully student-driven: there are no preset topics or assigned questions. This being said, mentors can provide a research question upon request.
Your child's research should be based entirely on their interests and goals. During the application interview, students share what excites them academically, and our mentors help transform those interests into focused, quality research questions.
This personalized approach ensures every project is:
• Authentically meaningful to the student
• Academically rigorous and novel
• Unique and memorable for college applications
Students gain genuine ownership of their work, not a cookie-cutter project.

Can my child's research bridge multiple fields in the Nova Scholar program?

Absolutely! Nova Scholar actively encourages interdisciplinary research: some of the most innovative work happens at the intersection of fields.
Students can combine areas like:
• Bioengineering + medicine
• Environmental science + public policy
•Computer science + psychology or social sciences
• Economics + data science
•Neuroscience + artificial intelligence
Our mentors, all from top 25 universities across diverse disciplines, help students connect their interests, design methodologically sound interdisciplinary projects, and produce research that stands out to college admissions officers.
‍Why it matters: Interdisciplinary research demonstrates intellectual curiosity, creativity, and the ability to think across boundaries: qualities top universities actively seek.

Can students use in-person labs with the Nova Scholar Research Program?

While Nova Scholar is an online mentorship program, we fully support students who have access to laboratory facilities through their school, local universities, summer internships, or community programs.
Nova Scholar doesn't provide physical lab space, but our mentors can:
• Guide students on how to design and integrate lab-based experiments into their research
• Help interpret experimental data and results
• Connect wet-lab work with theoretical analysis and scholarly writing
Many students successfully combine online Nova Scholar mentorship with hands-on lab experience, creating well-rounded research projects that demonstrate both practical skills and intellectual depth for college applications.

Can beginners participate in the Nova Scholar Research Program?

Absolutely. No prior research experience is required.
The Nova Scholar Research Program welcomes students at every level:
• Beginners new to academic research learn foundational skills in literature review, methodology design, data analysis, and scholarly writing
• Advanced learners deepen their expertise and tackle more sophisticated research questions
• Our mentors from top 25 universities provide structured, step-by-step guidance tailored to each student's experience level. What matters most is curiosity, commitment, and willingness to learn, not previous credentials.
Many of our most successful students had never conducted research before Nova Scholar.

Do students need to conduct experiments in the Nova Scholar Research Program?

No. While some students choose experimental projects, most Nova Scholar research involves theoretical work, literature analysis, or analysis of existing datasets.
Common research approaches include:
• Systematic literature reviews and meta-analyses
• Statistical analysis of publicly available data (government databases, published studies, surveys)
• Computational modeling or simulations
• Theoretical frameworks and policy analysis
• Qualitative research using interviews or case studies
This makes rigorous academic research accessible to all students, regardless of lab access, while still developing the critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and scholarly writing skills that impress college admissions officers.

How does mentor matching work in the Nova Scholar Research Program?

Mentor matching is personalized and strategic. After you submit your application and complete the interview, the Nova Scholar team carefully reviews:
• Your child's academic interests and passions
• Their research goals and intended field of study
• Their current skill level and learning style
• The type of project they want to pursue
We then match your child with a mentor from a top 25 university whose expertise, research background, and mentoring style align perfectly with their objectives. You will review the mentor and approve, or we’ll go ahead and suggest another mentor on our team.
This thoughtful pairing ensures relevant, field-specific guidance throughout the research process. You will never be paired with a mentor that you do not approve of; we will suggest mentors until your student is paired with a mentor that they’re excited about.

Can my child publish their research through the Nova Scholar program?

Yes. Every student in the Nova Scholar Research Program receives dedicated guidance from publication experts on preparing their research for submission to youth research journals and academic platforms.
Nova Scholar support includes:
• Strategic journal selection based on your child's research topic, the journal's acceptance rate, and submission timeline (critical if working toward college application deadlines)
• Refining and polishing the research paper to meet specific journal standards and formatting requirements
• Navigating resubmission and peer review if the paper receives feedback requiring revisions (Premium Track)
‍Important note: Students can only submit to one journal at a time, as most journals require exclusive submission. Our publication experts help choose the right journal from the start to maximize acceptance chances and avoid delays, especially if you're working within a time-sensitive timeline for college applications.

Where can research be published through Nova Scholar?

Nova Scholar students submit to respected youth research journals and academic platforms, including:
• Journal of Emerging Investigators
• National High School Journal of Science
• International Journal of High School Research
• Journals published by university programs and other peer-reviewed youth outlets
Our mentors help identify the most suitable journal based on your child's research topic, methodology, and college application goals. This strategic approach maximizes the chances of acceptance while ensuring the publication adds meaningful value to their academic profile.

How long does journal publication take through Nova Scholar?

On average, 3 to 6 months from submission to publication. This includes submission, peer review, revisions, and final acceptance. Some journals move faster; others take longer depending on review schedules and submission volume.
Nova Scholar maintains a database of journal requirements, timelines, and acceptance rates. Every student has access to a Nova Scholar publication expert for guidance throughout the process.

What is the time commitment for the Nova Scholar Research Program?

Students should expect:
‍• 1 hour per week in live mentorship sessions with their Nova Scholar research mentor
• 3 to 7 hours per week of independent work, including reading scholarly articles, conducting analysis, and writing
The workload is designed to be manageable alongside school coursework and extracurricular activities. Independent work is flexible and can be completed on your child's schedule, making it easier to balance with other commitments.
This consistent but reasonable time investment builds the discipline, time management, and research skills needed to produce publication-ready work while preparing students for college-level academic demands.

Can my child prepare for research competitions through the Nova Scholar Research Program?

Absolutely. Many Nova Scholar students develop projects specifically for science fairs and research competitions. Make sure to let us know this goal during the intake process so we can make sure your research question and project will be competitive.

Nova Scholar Research Competition Bootcamp

What is the Nova Scholar Research Competition Bootcamp?

The Nova Scholar Research Competition Bootcamp is a 6-week program helping students prepare research projects for science fairs and academic competitions. Through small-group coaching, students refine posters, write presentation scripts, practice answering judge questions, and receive feedback to ensure competition-ready submissions for events like ISEF and regional science fairs.

Who is eligible to join the Nova Scholar Research Competition Bootcamp?

The Nova Scholar Research Competition Bootcamp is open to students in grades 6 to 12 who already have a completed research project. Current Nova Scholar students may enroll with a mentor's nomination. External applicants submit projects for review by the Nova Scholar evaluation team. This ensures every participant enters with a strong foundation.

How long is the Nova Scholar Research Competition Bootcamp?

The Nova Scholar Research Competition Bootcamp runs 6 weeks with six 90-minute small-group sessions led by mentors who are ISEF finalists, or competition judges. This schedule gives focused preparation for science fairs while keeping time commitment manageable. By the end, students have submission-ready competition packages: polished posters, scripts, and practiced Q&A responses.

Do I need a completed research project to join Nova Scholar Competition Bootcamp?

Yes. The Nova Scholar Research Competition Bootcamp is for students with finished research who want to strengthen it for competitions. If you don't have a project yet, start with the Nova Scholar Research Program for one-on-one mentorship to design and complete research before entering competitions.

What support will I receive in Nova Scholar Research Competition Bootcamp?

Nova Scholar provides step-by-step guidance including:
• Poster design tailored for science fairs and research showcases
• Presentation script development for clear, professional delivery
• Judge Q&A practice to build confidence in answering tough questions
• Peer and mentor feedback to refine submissions and strengthen presentation skills
Students present work with clarity, confidence, and polish while taking ownership of projects.

How are mentors selected for the Nova Scholar Competition Bootcamp?

Nova Scholar Competition Bootcamp mentors include former ISEF finalists and competition judges who understand what top competitions look for. Their expertise helps students polish projects, refine presentations, and build confidence before submitting to science fairs and academic challenges.

What will I have by the end of the Nova Scholar Competition Bootcamp?

By the end of the 6-week Nova Scholar Competition Bootcamp, students complete a submission-ready competition package:
• Polished research poster meeting science fair standards
• Clear, professional presentation script
• Practiced responses to common judge questions
• Confidence presenting research in professional settings

How does Nova Scholar Competition Bootcamp benefit students beyond competitions?

Beyond science fair prep, the Nova Scholar Competition Bootcamp strengthens public speaking, critical thinking, and communication skills. These abilities are essential for college applications, interviews, and future academic or professional opportunities. Students gain transferable skills for education and career success.

Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs

What is the Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs program?

The Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs is a 4-week program for middle schoolers (grades 6 to 8) exploring artificial intelligence, healthcare, and entrepreneurship. Through weekly small-group mentorship, students work on hands-on projects like creating AI demos, designing health intervention websites, or building startup pitch decks.
The program develops critical thinking, research, and problem-solving skills while learning how technology and innovation shape the world. With just 8 total hours of guided instruction, it's the perfect entry point for curious students ready for their first project-based learning experience.

How long is the Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs program?

The Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs program lasts 4 weeks with 8 to 10 total hours of commitment. Sessions are paced to be manageable alongside schoolwork, giving students enough time to explore AI, healthcare, or entrepreneurship topics without feeling overwhelmed by workload.

Which grades can participate in Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs?

The Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs program is designed for middle school students in grades 6 to 8. It provides an accessible introduction to AI, healthcare, and entrepreneurship projects. High school students interested in more advanced opportunities should explore the Nova Scholar Research Program or Nova Scholar AI Product Launch program.

What is the structure of Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs?

Each week in Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs, students join small-group sessions that combine:
• Mini-lecture on AI or innovation topics
• Hands-on project work (prototypes, websites, pitch decks)
• Guided discussion to connect ideas
• Recap and preview of next session
This structure ensures students build technical understanding and critical thinking skills while completing portfolio-ready projects.

What will I learn in Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs?

Students in Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs study AI basics like machine learning, neural networks, and data ethics. They gain hands-on technical skills through AI, healthcare, or business projects. The program focuses on teamwork, communication, and discussion-based learning in addition to technology. These abilities help students excel in college-level seminars and collaborative research projects.

What if I have no computer science background for the Nova Scholar Artificial Intelligence Project Lab?

That's completely fine. The Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs program is designed to be beginner-friendly with no CS experience required. Students gain critical knowledge and project-based learning skills that apply across many fields, not just technology.
Today, AI is transforming industries from law and business to healthcare and humanities. Startups like Harvey are reshaping legal work; AI tools like Midjourney are redefining art and design. Whether your future is in STEM, law, entrepreneurship, or creative fields, understanding AI's impact through Nova Scholar helps you become a stronger, more adaptable leader.

What opportunities are available after completing Nova Scholar Project Labs?

Graduates of Nova Scholar Middle School Project Labs receive automatic acceptance into the Nova Scholar Research Program and priority advantage for Nova Scholar AI Product Launch. Middle schoolers who begin with Labs have a clear pathway to continue building advanced skills in research, innovation, and product development as they move into high school.

Logistics and Payment

What payment options are available for Nova Scholar programs?

Nova Scholar accepts secure online payments through Stripe, a trusted global payment platform. Families can pay with major credit or debit cards, and receipts are provided automatically. Questions about payment? Contact the Nova Scholar team at admin@novascholar.education for support.

What is the refund policy for Nova Scholar programs?

Nova Scholar offers a clear refund policy:
• Within 3 days of payment: Full refund (minus $200 USD to account for credit card and administrative fees)
• Within 24 hours after the first session: Refund minus prorated first session cost and processing fees.
• After second session: No refunds availableThis flexible policy gives families options while maintaining Nova Scholar program consistency.

Can I pause my Nova Scholar program and resume later?

Yes. Nova Scholar offers a Project Pause option letting students pause their program for up to six months. Banked sessions can be resumed under certain conditions so you won't lose progress. Note: when resuming, you may or may not be paired with the same mentor depending on their availability at that time.

What if I don't like my Nova Scholar mentor?

If you feel your Nova Scholar mentor isn't the right fit, contact Nova Scholar support at admin@novascholar.education within 24 hours of your first session. Our team will rematch you with a mentor who better aligns with your goals and learning style, ensuring you receive the personalized mentorship you need.

General Questions

How do I showcase Nova Scholar research or projects on college applications?

Nova Scholar provides guides and resources, but common examples include:
‍• Published research in journals like Journal of Emerging Investigators and STEM Fellowship Journal.“Patent pending” status from Nova Scholar AI Product Launch projects.
• Mobile apps in the App Store from published Nova Scholar projects
• Competition recognition from ISEF, Congressional App Challenge, science fairs
• Letters of recommendation from Nova Scholar mentors, all from top-25 universities including Harvard, Stanford, and Princeton, supporting college or scholarship applications
These opportunities ensure meaningful recognition and help showcase achievements effectively to college admissions officers.

Does Nova Scholar offer financial aid for programs?

Yes. Nova Scholar offers financial aid to make programs more accessible to families. Students applying for aid need to provide proof of family income as part of the application process. Financial aid decisions are made during Nova Scholar admissions, ensuring eligible students can access research, AI, and academic enrichment programs with mentor support.

Will my Nova Scholar mentor write a letter of recommendation for college?

Yes! Nova Scholar mentors may write letters of recommendation for students who show commitment, growth, and significant progress. Just like in school, strong letters depend on student effort and mentor discretion. Request letters early if interested and build strong working relationships with your Nova Scholar mentor throughout the program for the best recommendation.

Frequently Asked Questions