Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Who can apply for the program? 

Students in Grades 8 to 12 (ages 13–17) from all academic streams — Science, Commerce, Humanities — are eligible. 

 

2. Do I need prior research experience? 

No. The program is designed for beginners and provides structured, step-by-step guidance. 

 

3. How much time does the program require? 

The program runs for seven weeks. Students attend four hours of live sessions each week (lectures + tutorials) and complete guided tasks during the week. The workload is designed to fit alongside school commitments. 

 

4. What will I do in this program? 

You will develop your own research project from start to finish. Over six weeks, you will: 
• Select and refine a research question 
• Learn to find and analyse credible sources 
• Engage with research methods relevant to your topic 
• Write a full academic paper of approximately 2,000 words 
By the end, you will have a complete manuscript. 

 

5. Who will teach and mentor me? 

The program is led by Dr. Brainerd Prince (Associate Professor and Director of Centre for Thinking, Language and Communication, Plaksha University). Students also work closely with a Teaching Fellow in a 1:5 mentorship ratio, ensuring personalised guidance throughout. 

 

6. How competitive is the admission process? 

Admission involves an application followed by a short interview. We look for motivation and curiosity rather than prior achievements. Cohorts are capped at 20–25 students to maintain close mentorship. 

 

7. How much does the program cost? 

The program fee is INR 25,000 + GST. 

 

8. What will I gain by joining? 

• Hands-on research and writing skills 
• A certificate of completion from Plaksha University 
• A strong credential for college applications 
• Eligibility for program prizes (top three papers) 

 

9. I’ve never done research before. Will I be able to manage? 

Yes. The program is designed for students with no prior experience. Mentors offer structured guidance, small-group support, and regular feedback. 

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10. Can I communicate with my mentor outside class hours? 

Yes, students may contact their Teaching Fellows for clarifications or guidance, depending on mutual availability. 

 

11. How is the research topic chosen? 

You do not need a topic in advance. In the early sessions, you will explore your interests, and with mentor support, refine and finalise your research question.