We’re excited to announce Early Decision for 2019. Similar to what many colleges allow, we’ll be offering undergrad and graduate students the chance to apply one batch early.

Specifically, if you want to apply today for participation in the Summer 2019 batch, you can go through our application process alongside startups applying for the current batch (Winter 2019).

If you’re accepted, you will be early accepted into the Summer 2019 batch which begins in June. If you’re not accepted, you can apply again during the regular Summer 2019 application cycle which begins in March.

Why are we doing this? We understand that people — especially undergrads, grad students and postdocs — often make plans in the fall for the following summer. We hope Early Decision will make it even easier for students to commit to building their startup after graduation.

While this was designed with students in mind, anyone with a good deferral reason is eligible. We’ll be deciding each on a case by case basis. To indicate you’re applying Early Decision, make a note in the “How long have each of you been working on this?” section with a short explanation.

You can email us at apply@ycombinator.com with any questions.

And to apply to YC, either Early Decision or not, just fill out an application.