ChatGPT 26
A search for 26 next-generation leaders creating new possibilities with AI.
The Class of 2026 will graduate as the first class to go through the college experience with ChatGPT.
This generation of students were some of the earliest adopters of our technology. They put the capabilities of ChatGPT to the test in their education, personal, and professional lives. And they took ChatGPT home to share with their parents, siblings, and grandparents, driving the product’s rapid growth worldwide.
We’ve watched as the most high-agency students used AI to extend their own capabilities and create new opportunities beyond school—often in ways other generations never could. What used to require teams, money, and years of training can now start with self-belief, curiosity, and follow-through.
ChatGPT 26 celebrates the remarkable initiative of students and recent graduates. We’re seeking 26 current or recent students (18-25 years old, based in the U.S. or Canada) whose own paths can show the rest of us what’s possible when frontier AI is put to work in capable, creative, optimistic hands.
Applications are now closed
Check back later this spring to meet the selected recipients.
Early stories that inspired us
A young researcher used AI to analyze astronomical datasets, uncovering millions of new objects and impressing NASA researchers.
A future pilot practiced air traffic control conversations with ChatGPT voice mode between flight hours, earned their license, and now helps train others.
A student who noticed local street food vendors relying on mental math built an AI-powered finance tool that now helps hundreds manage their businesses.
A student built a real-time AI study companion that gained traction online and caught the attention of recruiters, leading to a job offer.
Who we’re looking for
We’re seeking students and recent graduates who are already putting AI to work in meaningful ways. We’re especially excited to meet people who:
Leverage AI to expand their capacity
Extending their time, skills, or reach beyond what’s typical for their peers.
Demonstrate agency
They’ve already done something real without being asked like built a product, started a project, or sparked a movement.
Hold a bold, thoughtful vision for the future
They see new possibilities where others see limits.
18–25 years old and based in the U.S. or Canada
Whether currently in school, recently graduated, or forging their own path.
What ChatGPT 26 recipients receive
We’re eager to support this extraordinary group with the tools, community, and opportunities needed to help them keep moving their ideas forward, including:
Access to a community
of exceptional peers who are also charting new paths and figuring out how to use AI to do more with their time, skills, and ideas.
A trip to the OpenAI headquarters
to meet with peers and the OpenAI team.
Spotlights across OpenAI channels
and press, sharing your inspiring story far and wide.
Access to our best technology
including a ChatGPT Pro subscription and API credits.
$10,000 grant
to help push your future work and ideas forward.
Frequently asked questions
Applicants must be 18-25 years old and based in the U.S. or Canada.