YC Application Questions Template

Are you considering applying for Y Combinator (YC) with your startup? YC is the premier startup accelerator in the world, and a critical part of getting in is a great application.

Understanding the application process and following guidelines can ease the stress of applying and increase your chances of success.

As a founder, you have a lot on your plate, so we wanted to save you 10 minutes of copying and pasting the application into a Google or Word doc so you can draft, and get feedback on your YC application before hitting submit. Below you’ll find the application and all the questions you’ll need to answer.

YC APPLICATION QUESTIONS: Y COMBINATOR APPLICATION

You can access the Google Doc template with all the Y Combinator application questions here

This takes you to an editable version of the Y Combinator application to make it easy to fill out and share/get feedback on. If you would like to use it, select ‘File’ in the top left, and make a copy.

Click here to get to the actual YC application.

YC APPLICATION TIPS

Need some help making sure your YC application has the best chance of success? Here are the top tips for crafting a winning application.

HIGHLIGHT TRACTION

When discussing your startup's traction, it's crucial to report the number of active users to demonstrate user engagement and product traction. Highlight any significant milestones, such as revenue generation, user onboarding, and growth targets. Providing insights from user interviews indicating a willingness to pay can also strengthen your application.

HIGHLIGHT TRACTION FOR EARLY STAGE STARTUPS

For early-stage startups, it's important to clearly communicate your progress. Ask yourself how many active users your startup has to provide a clear picture of user engagement. This information can help illustrate the demand for your product and its potential for growth.

EXPLAIN THE PROBLEM AND YOUR SOLUTION

Clearly articulate the problem your startup is solving and how your solution addresses it. Additionally, mention if you are applying with the same idea as before or if there have been any changes or pivots. This can show your ability to adapt and improve based on feedback and market conditions.

EXPLAIN THE PROBLEM AND YOUR SOLUTION

When explaining the problem and your solution, it is crucial to clearly articulate the issue you are addressing and how your startup plans to solve it. Make sure to demonstrate your domain expertise by highlighting your qualifications and experience in the specific industry relevant to your startup idea. This will help establish your credibility and knowledge in the chosen domain.

Are you applying with the same idea as before, or have there been any changes or pivots to your original concept?

HIGHLIGHT TRACTION

Traction is a key indicator of your startup’s potential for success. Highlight any significant milestones, user growth, or revenue figures that showcase your progress. Reporting the number of active users is crucial to demonstrate user engagement and product traction. For early stage startups, demonstrating traction is particularly important as it shows that there is a demand for your product and that you are capable of executing your business plan effectively. How many active users does your startup have? This provides a clear picture of user engagement and helps in understanding the product's reach and impact.

BE CLEAR AND CONCISE

YC reviewers go through thousands of applications. Ensure your answers are to the point and easy to understand. Avoid jargon and be straightforward about what your company does and why it matters.

EXPLAIN THE PROBLEM AND YOUR SOLUTION

Clearly define the problem you are solving and explain why your solution is unique or better than existing solutions. It’s crucial to show that you have a deep understanding of the problem and a viable solution.

Are you applying with the same idea as before, or have there been any changes or pivots to your original concept?

HIGHLIGHT TRACTION FOR EARLY STAGE STARTUPS

Demonstrating traction can significantly strengthen your YC application. Include metrics or achievements that highlight your progress and traction, such as user growth, revenue, or anything else that shows you’re building something people want. Reporting the number of active users is crucial to demonstrate user engagement and product traction. How many active users does your startup have? This information provides a clear picture of user engagement and helps to showcase your product's traction.

THE TEAM

The founding team is critical for most investors, and Y Combinator is no different. Highlight the team’s background, relevant expertise, and why you are the right people to solve this problem. If you’ve worked together previously or have a history of building things together, mention this, as it shows stability and cohesion in the team. Additionally, outline any plans to employ developers to scale the product, demonstrating your commitment to growth and capability to expand the team.

SHOW YOUR PASSION AND COMMITMENT

YC is looking for founders who are deeply committed to their startup. Express your dedication to your vision and willingness to endure startup life's ups and downs.

REVIEW AND REFINE

Before submitting your application, have it reviewed by mentors, peers, or other founders. Fresh eyes can help catch errors and provide feedback on your application’s perception. If you know someone that’s gone through YC before, have them review it. Additionally, consider any other ideas you may have had to refine and strengthen your application.

PREPARE A GREAT VIDEO

YC applications require a short video of the founders. This is your opportunity to make a personal connection with the reviewers. Keep it simple, direct, and authentic. Clearly state who you are, what you're doing, and why you're passionate about it.

YC FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT IS Y COMBINATOR?

YC is a startup accelerator that provides seed funding and support for startups. YC is a three month program, with the goal of helping startups take off, providing guidance on everything from product to fundraising, as well as capital, a community, and the prestige of being a YC company. YC companies receive recommendations and legal conditions for investment.

HOW MUCH DOES YC INVEST?

YC invests $500k total. $125k is done on a post-money SAFE for 7% of the company, and $375k is invested on an uncapped SAFE with a Most Favored Nation provision. The breakdown of equity ownership typically includes percentages allocated to founders, employees, and other stockholders, ensuring a clear distribution among all parties involved.

WHAT'S THE ACCEPTANCE RATE FOR Y COMBINATOR?

Generally about 10k startups apply for YC, and they typically accept between 1.5% - 2% of them. YC values startups that are just an idea and encourages early-stage innovation. Preparing for the YC interview is crucial, as it can significantly impact your chances of acceptance.

WHAT IS THE NEXT YC APPLICATION DEADLINE?

YC has two batches throughout the year - Summer and Winter. To find the next batch’s application deadline, head to apply.ycombinator.com. Remember to follow the application process guidelines and stay within word limits.

WHERE IS Y COMBINATOR LOCATED?

YC is based in San Francisco, CA. It is crucial to form legal entities and provide details about their structure and location to ensure transparency and compliance. Many businesses also form subsidiary companies in different states or countries for conducting business. Additionally, legal entities are often set up to employ developers or other service providers in various markets or countries.