What is fixed
The program is free, follows one four-level pathway, and uses human admissions review rather than automated decisions.
Free · student-led · cohort-based
A clear path into computer science.
Compute Forward replaces disconnected tutorials with four levels of structured learning, peer accountability, live support, and projects that show what you can do.
The honest version
Know what is decided—and what is still being scheduled.
We will not use stale dates, unsupported outcome counters, or invented commitments to push an application.
What comes with an offer
Exact dates, meeting times, time zone, workload, technology requirements, capacity, and named safety contacts.
What “apply” means now
You are joining the next-cohort interest and placement process. No active Summer 2026 cohort is being implied.
One pipeline · four levels
Start where you are. Keep moving forward.
Each level has a distinct purpose. Placement is based on readiness, not age or access to expensive prior instruction.
Python Foundations
Learn Python and computational thinking by writing, debugging, explaining, and improving real programs.
Best for: absolute beginners. No prior experience is required.
Applied AI & Machine Learning
Move from knowing Python to using NumPy, pandas, scikit-learn, and introductory neural-network tools in applied mini-projects.
Best for: students with Level 1 skills or baseline Python proficiency.
Algorithms & Competitive Programming
Practice core data structures, algorithmic patterns, contest strategy, and mock contests aligned with USACO Bronze through Silver readiness.
Best for: intermediate to advanced problem solvers.
Passion Project
Develop an independent AI application, startup prototype, developer tool, or other portfolio-grade project with mentor guidance.
Best for: prepared students ready to own a portfolio-grade project.
How it works
Structure, community, progression.
The website is not the classroom. It explains fit, accepts applications securely, and gives families enough information to make a considered decision.
Apply and choose a level
Submit minimal contact, grade, age-range, level, and consent information. Every application receives a durable reference.
Human placement review
Founders review readiness and follow up. No algorithm makes admissions decisions.
Review the full commitment
Families receive dates, schedule, workload, technology needs, capacity, and safety contacts before accepting.
Designed for trust
Students deserve rigor. Families deserve clarity.
These are operating commitments, not marketing decorations.
Student safety
Approved communication channels, visible scheduling, conduct rules, guardian-informed one-to-one support, and a written escalation path.
Data minimization
Applications are stored in a protected database, never in public site files. Applicants can request verified deletion.
Evidence before claims
Public metrics and testimonials stay unpublished until their source, period, definition, and consent are documented.
Accountability
Know who is responsible.
Compute Forward was founded by Anish Koppula and Kaushik Atla. It is student-led, and we are explicit about the safeguards that must exist before a cohort begins.
Interest application
Tell us where you want to start.
The form takes about five minutes. Level 1 requires no prior experience—we ask about coding background only to place and support each student well. Fields marked * are required.
Before you submit
Applicants under 18 need parent or guardian authorization. A parent or legal guardian must submit for applicants under 13.
Current application period: Next Cohort Interest List
We aim to reply within 48 hours. Submitting does not commit you to a cohort.
Securely stored
Your application is saved.
Keep this reference:
The founders can review every stored submission in the protected admissions dashboard.
We aim to respond within 48 hours.