Join y/cs

We are Yale's largest collective of software developers, product designers, and computer science enthusiasts.

Applications are open now!

Apply before September 7 at 11:59 PM to join our community for the Fall 2025 semester.

Apply Now

Available Roles

Explore the diverse opportunities to contribute and grow with our dynamic team

General Member

Attend workshops, hackathons, and speaker event, contribute to our blog, and make projects with other members. 100% acceptance.

Software Engineer

Develop one of the y/cs's current or upcoming products. Collaborate with your team on a weekly basis in a startup-like environment.

Catalyst Developer

Hone your development skills in a beginner-friendly software program designed to prepare you to work on one of our products.

Application Process

Applications open at the beginning of each semester. We try to keep our process as short and sweet as possible.

1

Written Application

Indicate which divisions or teams you are interested in joining, share a bit about yourself, and why you're interested in joining y/cs.

2

Interview/Challenge

For those applying for technical roles, we have a technical interview.

Those applying for y/cs Development are evaluated on their ability to operate the tools/skills used to build the products (not LeetCode questions).

We don't expect everyone to come to Yale knowing how to use these tools/skills, which is why we have beginner Catalyst programs designed to teach them to you! Those applying for beginner programs are evaluated on their ability/willingness to learn new technical concepts in a separate interview.

3

Team Placement

Based on your written application and interview you are placed on a y/cs team within 3 weeks of the application deadline, as space permits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about joining y/cs

What do you mean "100% acceptance"?

Exactly what it sounds like! Everyone who applies to y/cs will be accepted as a general member, regardless of their technical background. General members contribute to the y/cs blog, attend events/hackathons, and work on projects with other members. They may also opt-in to our internship recruitment pipeline.

Our development teams (CourseTable, Yalies, etc.) and Catalyst program are y/cs sub-divisions that general members may apply to join. For stricly logistical reasons, these sub-divisions are more selective.

Do I need prior experience?

Not at all! Our Catalyst program is specifically designed for beginners who want to learn development skills. For more advanced roles, experience is helpful but enthusiasm and willingness to learn are equally important.

What is the time commitment?

Time commitments vary by role. Development teams typically meet 2-3 hours per week, with additional time for individual work. The Catalyst program requires 4-6 hours weekly.

Do I need to be a CS major?

Not at all! We welcome students from all majors and backgrounds. Many of our most successful members come from non-CS fields but share a passion for technology.

When will I hear back about my application?

We typically review applications within 1-3 weeks after the deadline. You'll be notified by email about interview invitations and final decisions.

Interested in joining?

Join our community of passionate developers, designers, and tech enthusiasts. Applications for Fall 2025 are now open!