Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to join ISMP?

The ISMP program is free of cost. You can apply and join for free. All of our mentors are volunteers giving their time and resources to our program.

How do I sign up for ISMP?

You can sign up for ISMP by completing our short application located here. We will be admitting students into our program on a rolling basis. Once you’re admitted, we’ll be sending you an email with next steps to join our program.

Who are the mentors?

We have more than 200 volunteers that have graduated from top-tier schools such as UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UCSD, UCLA, UC Riverside, UC Irvine, Harvard University, Stanford University, and other schools. Many of them are now working professionals at well-respected companies. Each mentor has several years of experience supporting and advising students in their academic, professional, and personal lives, and is passionate about helping international students overcome obstacles and seek new opportunities.

How frequently do we meet?

Mentors and mentees generally start off meeting on a weekly basis for about one hour. We recommend that these weekly meetings continue for at least the first six weeks to build up the relationship. After that, mentors and mentees can decide the frequency of their meetings.

How long is the program?

We believe that the most effective mentorships require a strong mentor-mentee relationship, and this kind of relationship takes time to develop. Therefore, the minimum program length is generally at least one school semester (roughly 4-5 months). However, our mentor-mentee relationships often continue for much longer than this as our mentors would love to see you through your college career and even attend your graduation.

What kind of curriculum is offered?

Please see our mentorship offerings page here. Please talk to your mentor if you have an area of interest that you want to learn. Your mentor might be able to teach you on the subject!

What happens after I sign up?

When you’ve been matched with a mentor, you will receive an email inviting you to an online Meet and Greet. There, you will receive important details that will help you get the most out of the mentorship program. You will also get to meet your mentor for the first time.

Will we meet online or in-person?

ISMP has a variety of meetings. We hold online webinars, in-person programs, as well as individual mentorship meetings that can occur online or in-person.

How will I get matched with a mentor?

We will do our best in matching you with a mentor, based on your campus, mentorship interests, school major, and career goals. Therefore, it is important for mentees to fill out the application carefully and be very clear about their goals for the mentorship program.

Can I join this program if I am under 18 years old?

ISMP offers college mentorship opportunities as well as youth mentorship opportunities. If you’re under 18, you are welcome to join our youth programs. Your parents or legal guardian will need to sign an official waiver & agreement with us so that you can participate. You’ll be mentored along with other mentees in a small group led by a few of our mentors.