Frequently Asked
Questions
Everything you need to know about Fractal Accelerator
What's the schedule like?
The accelerator is 60 hours per week for 12 weeks:
- Monday-Friday: 9am - 7pm
- Saturday: 10am - 4pm
- Sunday: Off
This is a full-time, immersive program. You cannot work another job while enrolled.
What will I learn?
Languages: TypeScript and JavaScript (primary), with exposure to Python and Go
Tech Stack:
- Frontend: React, Next.js, TailwindCSS
- Backend: Node.js, Express
- Database: Postgres, Redis
- Infrastructure: AWS (Lambda, S3, RDS)
AI Modules: RAG systems, Model Context Protocol (MCP), streaming, and generative interfaces
How big is each cohort?
15 engineers maximum.
Small cohorts ensure you get direct access to instructors and build deep relationships with your peers. No fighting for attention in a class of 30+.
Can I really get a job without a CS degree?
Yes. 100% of our engineers who pursued SWE roles got hired.
You don't need a degree. You need real experience on real projects. That's what our internship program gives you—actual work you can point to in interviews.
What about AI replacing developers?
AI makes engineers MORE valuable, not less. The demand for engineers who can effectively use AI tools is skyrocketing.
You'll master AI tools from Day 1 (Cursor, Claude Code, v0, etc.) to work 10x faster than engineers who don't use them. This is your competitive advantage.
What prior experience do I need?
You should have basic familiarity with:
- JavaScript or TypeScript basics
- Git and command line
- HTML/CSS fundamentals
- React (at least basic understanding)
We'll send pre-course materials 4-6 weeks before the cohort starts to help you prepare.
Do I need a computer science degree?
No. A CS degree is not required. What matters is your ability to learn quickly, solve problems, and ship code.
Our engineers come from diverse backgrounds: teachers, PMs, consultants, sales professionals. They all got hired.
What equipment do I need?
macOS is required. We standardize on Mac to ensure environmental consistency across the cohort and match most startup development environments.
How much does it cost?
$18,000 total
Early bird discount: $1,000 off (until November 1st)
Payment plans available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. We offer 2 full scholarships per cohort based on:
- Financial need
- Technical aptitude
- Commitment to the program
- Contribution to cohort diversity
What's your placement rate?
100% placement rate for engineers actively seeking software engineering roles.
Average starting salary: $104,500
Average time to offer: 8 weeks
Salary range: $95K - $150K+ (including equity)
All statistics follow CIRR standards. See full outcomes data →
What career support do you provide?
We support you until you're hired:
- Resume review and portfolio guidance
- Interview preparation (technical & behavioral)
- Direct introductions to hiring managers
- Salary negotiation coaching
- Access to our network of 40+ partner startups
Career coaching doesn't end when you complete the program. We're invested in your success.
Where do Fractal engineers work?
Our engineers work at 40+ startups including:
PromptLayer, Ellis, Plastic Labs, Rotabull, HDR, Drumkit, Genie AI, RubieHQ, Redistrictr, and more.
Most are venture-backed startups in NYC where you'll have real impact from day one.
Book a free call with our team. We'll assess your background and map out your exact path to a $100K job.
No pressure, just honest advice.