Founding mentors - program guide & FAQs

apdec is a curated network of high-achieving STEM undergraduates & grad students who mentor ambitious middle and high school students in SAT, ACT, AP, and advanced mathematics and science. Unlike large open tutoring marketplaces, Kapdec is selective and intentionally built around near-peer academic mentorship. 

We review applications from undergraduate and graduate students in STEM disciplines at top-tier institutions, including Harvard University, Princeton University, Columbia University, Cornell University, and comparable institutions.  Strong academic performance in standardized testing and AP coursework is expected. We value clarity of thought and communication as much as academic rigor. 

Traditional platforms like Wyzant and Varsity Tutors are marketplaces.

Kapdec is not.

Kapdec is building a new category:

A curated network of high-performing students who become mentors—and early builders of the platform itself.

What Makes Kapdec Different

Curated, Not Open
We don’t list thousands of tutors.
We select a small group of high-performing mentors to ensure quality and trust.

Mentors as Founders, Not Gig Workers
Kapdec mentors are not just service providers.
They are early contributors shaping the platform, building their reputation, and growing with the network.

Peer-Led Learning, Not Traditional Tutoring
Students learn from mentors who have recently achieved what they aspire to do—making guidance more relevant, practical, and impactful.

To maintain academic integrity and trust: • University email verification is required
• Academic background is reviewed
• A brief conversation or recorded introduction may be requested

Verification protects both mentors and students.

Mentors set their own rates within a recommended premium range aligned with academic background and subject expertise. Kapdec does not control your advertised mentoring charges. Mentors can set their charges based on their unique positioning, knowledge, or the subject they wish to teach.  Kapdec is positioned as a premium academic mentorship network rather than a discount tutoring site. 

Kapdec is built as a shared ecosystem—where mentors earn, contribute, and grow together.

While the platform may include a structured commission model, Founding Mentors benefit from significantly more favorable terms, along with priority visibility and early access to opportunities.

Being part of the founding cohort means you are not just participating—you are building and benefiting from the platform early on.

We do not play as a matchmaker agency. We do not interfere with those who wish to teach a specific student. Students apply based on subject needs and academic goals and may select mentors based on their comfort level.

No strict minimum is required. Mentors maintain flexibility and control over:
• Availability
• Session frequency
• Student load

However, consistency is encouraged to ensure quality outcomes.

Yes — meaningfully. Teaching demonstrates: • Subject mastery
• Communication ability
• Leadership
• Mentorship experience

Mentors also receive a verified teaching profile summarizing hours taught and student feedback, which may be referenced in professional or academic contexts. Mentors can use a highly credible work experience through Kapdec to highlight their achievements, in job applications or in pursuing higher studies, to demonstrate tutoring / mentoring exposure.

Preferred - Yes.
Only for Ivy League - No.

While many mentors may come from highly selective institutions, the primary criteria are: • Strong STEM mastery
• Clear communication ability
• Academic credibility We value excellence over branding alone.

Kapdec has partnered with the world’s leading payment gateway provider. It provides structured processes for:
• Secure payment handling
• Session tracking
• Professional conduct standards.

This ensures mentors can focus on teaching rather than administrative burden.

The strongest mentors:
• Recently mastered the subjects they teach
• Can explain complex ideas simply
• Care about student growth
• Approach teaching with professionalism

Near-peer relatability is a core strength of the Kapdec model.

Founding Mentors are early members of the Kapdec network. Benefits may include: • Priority profile placement
• Early brand recognition
• Influence in shaping platform standards
• Preferred onboarding terms

Founding status is limited and reviewed selectively.

Applications are reviewed carefully. Qualified candidates may be invited to:

• A short introduction call
• Submit a brief teaching sample
• Complete verification steps

You will be notified regardless of the outcome.