HELP CENTER
Have Questions About ISM?
We've answered the most common questions below. Still stuck? Reach out to your campus ISM coordinator!
About the Program
What exactly is ISM?
ISM (Independent Study Mentorship) is a year-long advanced high school course in which students research a professional career field, partner with a community mentor, and produce an original final project.
Is ISM a class or an extracurricular?
ISM is an advanced course that counts as one elective period in your class schedule. It appears on your transcript and earns academic credit.
Can any student join ISM?
ISM is open to juniors and seniors who meet GPA requirements and demonstrate genuine interest in a specific career field. It is highly selective but accessible to motivated students.
How is ISM different from an AP course?
Unlike AP classes, ISM is primarily student-directed with no standardized curriculum or exams. The learning is shaped entirely by you, your field, your question, your project. It prepares you for college through self-direction rather than test performance.
Time & Workload
How much time does ISM require outside of class?
Expect 2–3 hours per week outside of class during the regular semester, increasing as your Final Presentation date approaches. Time management is a core skill you'll develop in ISM.
Can I do ISM while taking other challenging courses?
Yes — many students balance multiple AP/DC classes alongside ISM. Strong time management and a genuine passion for your topic make this manageable for most students.
Mentorship
Do I have to find my own mentor?
Yes — finding your mentor is a core part of the ISM experience. The program provides guidance and resources to help you identify and reach out to professionals, but the relationship is yours to build.
What if my mentor cancels or becomes unavailable?
Your responsibility is to communicate effectively with your mentor, whether it be over text or email, and plan to reschedule. This situation is a manageable part of the process, and navigating it builds real-world resilience.
How often do I meet with my mentor?
Most students meet with their mentor approximately once per week, though this varies by project phase. More frequent communication is always encouraged as you approach your final deadline.
Application Process
When should I apply?
Applications open January 1 for the following school year. Apply early — decisions are made on a rolling basis and spots fill up!
What makes a strong ISM application?
Strong applications reflect genuine curiosity, a specific and well-articulated field of interest, and a clear sense of why you want to invest a full year in this experience, as well as a strong academic standing.
Can I apply if I don't yet know my topic?
Yes- you need a general field of interest (e.g., medicine, engineering, journalism) but you don't need a specific career narrowed down necessarily. Topic refinement happens independently during summer, prior to the start of the course.
Still have questions?
Your campus ISM coordinator is your best resource. Or dive deeper into the program details.
Learn More About ISM →
© 2026 Independent Study Mentorship Program. All rights reserved.
A student-driven program that helps students explore career interests through research, mentorship, and real-world learning.
Louis D. Brandeis High School
Northside Independent School District