An 18-year-old tech founder has gone viral after writing an open letter to top universities that rejected him. Zach Yadegari, CEO of a $30 million AI company, shared his frustration after being denied admission to Harvard, Yale, and Stanford.
Strong Credentials, No Ivy Admission
Yadegari maintained a 4.0 GPA and scored 34 on the ACT. He also built Cal AI, a successful artificial intelligence startup. Despite these accomplishments, all three elite schools turned him down.
Started Coding at Age 7
In his letter, Yadegari explained his early passion for tech. He began coding when he was just 7 years old. At 12, he released his first mobile app. While still in high school, he launched Cal AI and grew it into a multi-million-dollar company.
https://t.co/5wK7aCEYod pic.twitter.com/3ZQ1EbZDg1
— Zach Yadegari (@zach_yadegari) April 2, 2025
Questions Fairness of Admissions
Yadegari questioned whether elite schools still value traditional success. He wrote, “If someone like me, who has demonstrated both academic and professional success, cannot gain admission, what does this say about the accessibility and inclusivity of higher education?”
Essay May Have Hurt His Chances
He also posted his college essay online. In it, he admitted to doubting the value of higher education. He reflected on starting and selling a gaming business by age 16. His message supported alternative paths to success.
Social Media Reacts Quickly
The post went viral within hours. Supporters praised his achievements. They criticized Ivy League schools for ignoring someone so qualified. However, others said his views on college may have led to rejection.
Other Schools Say Yes
Although Harvard, Yale, and Stanford said no, other universities welcomed him. Yadegari received offers from Georgia Tech and the University of Miami.
