Palantir's Controversial 'Meritocracy Fellowship': Bypassing College for High School Grads
2025-04-14
Palantir Technologies, a successful tech firm, has launched a controversial internship program called the "Meritocracy Fellowship." Targeting recent high school graduates who haven't attended college, the four-month program offers a substantial monthly stipend of $5,400. Applicants need exceptionally high SAT/ACT scores and must answer questions about their accomplishments and career aspirations. This move aligns with founder Peter Thiel's anti-higher education stance, sparking debate about tech talent acquisition and the value of college. While controversial, Palantir's initiative might offer a solution to the tech industry's talent shortage and inspire other companies to explore alternative recruitment strategies.