Prequel (BETA Camp): A Complete Guide

You know that feeling when you want to do something real instead of just padding your resume with the same activities as everyone else? That’s what the Prequel Program (formerly BETA Camp) is all about.

This online program helps you build actual businesses, publish legitimate research, and develop skills you’ll genuinely use. If you’re between 13 and 18 and ready to go beyond the usual extracurriculars, you’ll learn how to launch startups, get comfortable with budgeting and marketing, and work on projects that create real results.

In this blog, we’ll cover how to participate, what the requirements are, and what the program actually offers.

• What Is BETA Camp (Prequel)?
• BETA Camp (Prequel) Acceptance Rate
• BETA Camp (Prequel) Application Deadline
• BETA Camp (Prequel) Requirements
• How to Get into BETA Camp (Prequel)
• Why Join BETA Camp (Prequel)?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Is BETA Camp (Prequel)?

BETA Camp (now called Prequel) is a year-long online entrepreneurship program designed for high school students ages 13 to 18. Students who’ve done this program have built apps with hundreds of users, raised real startup funding, and published books before graduating high school.

You’ll work directly with mentors from companies like Google and Y Combinator—people who’ve actually built successful businesses. By the end, you’ll have practical skills, more confidence, and experience that stands out to colleges.

The program is organized into structured phases, and each phase has specific goals and outcomes to help you make real progress. Here’s an overview of what each phase looks like, followed by the key activities you’ll be working on throughout the program:

Prequel Explore

Prequel Explore is an 8-month online program designed for middle school students in grades 6 to 8. During Prequel Explore, you will:

• Launch your first real business or creative project and gain experience selling a product or idea
• Develop problem-solving and money management skills through interactive challenges
• Use no-code and AI tools to create apps, websites, or simple products
• Build communication and leadership skills through interviews, presentations, and teamwork
• Understand how to turn passions into purposeful work that makes a difference in your community

Students learn how to think like entrepreneurs, work in teams, and create meaningful projects that make an impact—all while discovering what they love to do.

Foundations

Foundations is the initial phase (months 1 to 3) of the Prequel program for high school students (grades 9–11). It focuses on developing core entrepreneurial skills and getting your project off the ground. You’ll work on defining a unique project called your “Masterpiece” and start learning the essential skills you need to create a viable business or venture. This phase is all about taking action, validating your ideas, and laying a strong foundation for growth.

During Foundations, you will:

• Identify and define a project idea with a clear problem to solve
• Learn hypothesis testing, market research, and basic business models
• Build your Minimum Viable Product (MVP) even without prior technical experience
• Develop marketing and sales skills, including storytelling and customer outreach
• Organize a plan to position your project for college admissions

Scale

Scale is the second phase (months 4 to 12) of the Prequel program for high school students. This phase is dedicated to refining, growing, and monetizing your project. Students expand their reach by building an engaged audience, generating revenue, and forming high-value partnerships. This phase focuses on sustainable growth and setting up your venture for long-term success.In Scale, you will:

• Use user feedback and data to improve your project’s product-market fit
• Implement growth hacking and advanced marketing strategies
• Build your personal brand and authority in your niche
• Experiment with AI and no-code tools to accelerate scaling
• Connect with mentors and advisors who provide strategic guidance
• Prepare a world-class portfolio to boost college acceptance chances

For 2026, BETA Camp continues to run with rolling admissions for its year-long cycle, enabling students to participate fully online while balancing school and other commitments.

BETA Camp (Prequel) Acceptance Rate

BETA Camp is highly selective, accepting only about 10% of applicants. This selectivity helps maintain a small, focused cohort where students receive personalized mentorship and hands-on entrepreneurial training.

Applicants are evaluated based on their motivation, achievements, and potential to benefit from the rigorous program. Those admitted typically have strong academic records and a clear passion for entrepreneurship and innovation.

Because BETA Camp aims to maintain an intimate cohort size to foster personalized mentorship and collaboration, only a fraction of applicants are admitted. If you get accepted, you’ll join a passionate community focused on creating impactful ventures and developing skills that will significantly strengthen your college applications.

BETA Camp (Prequel) Application Deadline

Applying to BETA Camp requires early preparation to secure a spot in this selective program. The next available cohort is the Winter Cohort, which starts on January 17, 2026. If you’re interested, you should apply as early as possible since specific application deadlines and notification timelines aren’t publicly listed on the official site.

The Winter Cohort offers personalized support to help you build world-class projects, featuring weekly workshops, expert guest speakers, and tailored college advising.

For middle school students interested in Prequel Explore, the next 8-month program intake runs from September to June, with sessions starting on October 1st. Applications for Prequel Explore open in advance of the start date, and there are multiple weekly session options to accommodate different schedules.

Since no other dates are provided officially, you should monitor the Prequel website closely for updates on deadlines and admission notifications. Applying early improves your chances of acceptance and scholarship consideration.

BETA Camp (Prequel) Requirements

There are important eligibility criteria, documentation needed for the application, and details on program costs. The following sections explain each aspect clearly.

Eligibility

Prequel Explore is designed for middle school students in grades 6 to 8, offering an 8-month immersive program from September to June focused on foundational entrepreneurial skills.

Prequel Foundations and Scale, on the other hand, are open to high school students in grades 9 to 11 in North America who are ambitious and eager to build real-world projects that stand out in college applications.

Required documents

You’re required to complete the online application form and answer the required prompts. There are no additional mandatory documents specified, such as transcripts or letters of recommendation. All your application information is submitted directly through the official form.

Program costs

The program offers two payment options to make the year-long program accessible to students and families. Both plans cover all interactive workshops, expert mentorship, and personalized college advising.

Here is a summary of the current tuition options:

Families can choose the plan that best fits their budget and needs. Both options ensure full access to program resources and support throughout the year.

How to Get into BETA Camp (Prequel)

Applying to BETA Camp involves a clear set of steps that guide you through showcasing your entrepreneurial passion and readiness to build an impactful project. Here are the key stages in the application process, along with tips to strengthen each part.

Step 1: Prepare your application.

Fill out the official application form. You’ll need to provide your personal details and answer the required prompts, which will ask about your background, interests, and your reasons for wanting to join the program.

Put thought and care into your responses. Be clear about what excites you about entrepreneurship and how you hope to grow through the program. Submit your application as early as possible and check it for accuracy before sending.

Step 2: Attend an interview if invited.

After your application is reviewed, you may be invited to a short, informal interview. This allows the BETA Camp team to learn more about you and gives you a chance to ask questions about the program.

Use the interview as an opportunity to show your enthusiasm and curiosity. Be yourself—BETA Camp wants to admit students who are genuinely interested in building real projects and who are ready to engage with new ideas.

Step 3: Wait for your admission decision.

Once your application and (if applicable) your interview are complete, the admissions team will notify you of their decision. Stay engaged with your interests and passion projects while you wait. If accepted, respond promptly to secure your place.

Step 4: Confirm your enrollment.

If accepted, you’ll receive instructions to confirm your place, including payment steps or financial aid discussions. Respond quickly to secure your spot. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about enrollment or the program.

Why Join BETA Camp (Prequel)?

BETA Camp offers you a unique opportunity to gain entrepreneurial experience, develop essential skills, and stand out in competitive college admissions. The program is designed to transform ambitious teens into confident, capable entrepreneurs through hands-on learning and expert mentorship.

Real-world experience

You’ll build and grow actual startups, gaining practical skills in business, marketing, sales, and product development. This experience goes far beyond classroom theory and prepares you for future success.

Expert mentorship

BETA Camp connects you with accomplished entrepreneurs and industry professionals from companies like Google and Y Combinator. This access provides invaluable insights, feedback, and networking opportunities.

Personalized college advising

You’ll receive tailored guidance to craft standout applications that highlight your Masterpiece project as a defining achievement. With a 55% U.S. Top 20 and 80% U.K./Canada Top 10 acceptance rate, Prequel’s strategic support helps you turn your entrepreneurial journey into a powerful college advantage.

Global community and collaboration

You’ll join a motivated cohort of peers from around the world, building lasting friendships and learning teamwork, leadership, and communication through collaboration.

Growth mindset and resilience

BETA Camp cultivates determination, problem-solving, and adaptability by challenging you to push beyond your limits and iterate on your projects continuously.

Cutting-edge skills

You’ll learn to leverage AI, no-code tools, and growth hacking techniques, positioning yourself at the forefront of modern entrepreneurship and innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can apply to BETA Camp (Prequel)?

BETA Camp is open to high school students in grades 9–11 across North America who want to build real-world projects that make their college applications stand out.

Additionally, Prequel Explore is available for middle school students in grades 6–8, focusing on developing entrepreneurial skills, confidence, and creativity through hands-on projects and interactive sessions designed specifically for younger learners.

2. How do I apply for the program?

Applicants need to complete the online application form, which includes questions about their interests, goals, and motivation. The process may include an interview to learn more about the applicant’s passion and fit for the program.

3. What does BETA Camp (Prequel) cost?

The tuition is $6,000 if paid in installments, with an initial $3,000 payment followed by quarterly payments of $1,000. Alternatively, students can pay an upfront discounted fee of $5,500 for the entire 12-month program.

For Prequel Explore, designed for grades 6–8, you can pay $3,960 in monthly installments of $495 over the 8-month program, or choose a one-time payment of $2,975 for the full 8 months. Both programs include all workshops, mentorship, and project-building resources.

4. Does BETA Camp (Prequel) offer financial aid?

Yes, scholarships and financial aid are offered to help make the program accessible based on demonstrated financial need. Families can apply for aid during the application process.

5. When does the next Prequel cohort begin?

The Winter Cohort begins on January 17, 2026, marking the start of a transformative 12-month journey in entrepreneurship and college preparation.

Takeaways

• Prequel (formerly Beta Camp) is a year-long virtual entrepreneurship program designed for high school students in grades 9–11, focusing on building impactful real-world projects that strengthen college applications.
• Prequel Explore is an 8-month program for middle school students in grades 6 to 8, focusing on building entrepreneurial skills, confidence, and creativity through weekly live workshops and real-world missions.
• The program offers personalized mentorship, live workshops, guest speakers, and college advising to help students develop standout “Masterpiece Projects” with real-world impact.
• Students progress through structured phases from launching their initial projects to scaling them, gaining hands-on experience in business and leadership.
• When applying to competitive programs like BETA Camp (Prequel), consider working with a private admissions consultant who can help tailor your application strategy and boost your chances of acceptance.