Your First Startup
ADMISSIONS
A Thoughtful Admissions Process
Hudson Lab Ventures is designed for students who are ready to engage with real problems, real people, and real responsibility. Our admissions process is intentionally simple and human. We take time to understand each applicant and to build a collaborative, balanced cohort.
Students do not need prior experience in entrepreneurship, business, or innovation. We are looking for curiosity, openness to learning, and a willingness to engage thoughtfully with others.
Who Thrives at Hudson Lab Ventures
Hudson Lab Ventures is a good fit for students who:
Are curious about how the world works
Want to work on meaningful, real-world challenges
Are willing to try, revise, and learn through uncertainty
Enjoy collaborating with peers and adults
Want to build confidence in how they think, speak, and contribute
There is no single “type” of Hudson Lab Ventures student. Our cohorts include students with different strengths, personalities, and levels of confidence.
Rolling Admissions & Cohort Size
Hudson Lab Ventures programs are intentionally small.
Each 2-week session is capped at approximately 35 students to ensure that every student receives meaningful attention, feedback, and support. We maintain a low student-to-facilitator ratio, with a minimum of two experienced facilitators per program, along with returning Hudson Lab Ventures students who serve as student leads.
This structure allows students to be known, challenged, and supported throughout the experience. It also ensures that responsibility is real and not diluted.
Admissions are rolling. Once a program reaches capacity, enrollment closes. We do not expand cohort size or add additional seats beyond the cap. Families considering Hudson Lab Ventures are encouraged to apply early.
Application Timeline & Deadlines
Hudson Lab Ventures uses a rolling admissions process. Applications are reviewed as they are received, and programs may fill before the final deadline.
Recommended timelines:
Early Application Window: February 28, 2026
Priority Review Deadline: April 15, 2026
Families typically receive an admissions decision within 15 business days of completing the application.
Because cohort sizes are capped, we encourage families to apply earlier rather than later.
To simply say "thank you" hardly captures the depth of my gratitude for your program. Hudson Lab Ventures was truly a transformational journey for my child.
Next Steps
A simple step-by-step application process. Most students finish the first step in 15 minutes.
Step 1
Written
Application
Complete short written application that help us understand how you think, reflect, and approach challenges.
(20 minutes)
Step 2
Application Fee
or Waiver
Submit the
non-refundable application fee or request a fee waiver if cost is a barrier.
Step 3
60-Second
Video
Submit a brief video
(60 seconds or less). This is not about production quality. We simply want to hear directly from the student in their own words.
Step 4
Teacher Recommendation
(Residential Programs Only)
Students applying to residential programs are asked to submit a brief teacher recommendation focused on readiness, collaboration, and independence.
Step 5
Admissions
Decision
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Families typically receive a decision within 15 business days.
What We Look For
Admissions decisions are based on indicators of growth potential rather than credentials or achievements.
We pay attention to:
Curiosity and openness to learning
Willingness to engage with uncertainty
Thoughtfulness in communication
Ability to work with others
Readiness to take responsibility for one’s work
These qualities matter more to us than prior experience or outcomes.
Accessibility & Financial Considerations
Hudson Lab Ventures is committed to making its programs accessible.
Application fee waivers are available
Financial assistance is offered on a limited basis
Program costs and what is included are outlined clearly on the Cost & Aid page
If cost is a concern, we encourage families to reach out or review financial aid options before applying.
Choosing the Right Program
Hudson Lab Ventures runs programs in multiple locations, each with its own structure, housing options, and local context. Admissions is centralized, but enrollment details vary by location.
Families are encouraged to review:
Program dates and locations
Residential vs non-residential options
What is included in tuition
Links to individual program pages should appear here as buttons or cards.
Next Steps
Families typically take one of the following next steps:
For questions, please contact:
admissions@hudsonlabventures.com
