YC Companies · 3 min read
How Long Is the Y Combinator Program?
Short answer
The YC batch is 3 months long, from kickoff retreat to Demo Day. But the relationship is permanent — accepted founders keep alumni access, Bookface, and partner office hours for life. The 3-month structure was designed by Paul Graham as the minimum time needed to ship something real and build investor momentum.
Week-by-week structure
- Weeks 1–2: Kickoff retreat, partner assignment, goal-setting.
- Weeks 3–10: Weekly Tuesday dinners with guest speakers (founders, VCs). Weekly office hours with assigned group partner. Heads-down building.
- Weeks 11–12: Demo Day prep — pitch coaching, slide reviews.
- Week 13: Demo Day — pitch to ~1,500 investors.
- Week 14+: Post-Demo Day fundraising window.
What happens after the 3 months
Founders return home (or stay in SF). They keep lifetime access to Bookface (the alumni network), YC partner office hours, and the alumni Slack. YC's value extends far beyond the 3-month batch.
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FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Can you extend the YC batch?
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An independent resource · Not affiliated with Y Combinator · Last updated 2026-06-01