Frequently Asked Questions
What is FSSA?
Freshworks STS Software Academy (FSSA) is a social impact initiative powered by Freshworks India Private limited (popularly known as Freshworks) for underprivileged students from low income families who are unable to afford conventional college education but have the right motivation, aptitude to learn software skills & have a strong desire to start their career in technology.
This is a skilling programme covering 4 tracks:
English Track
Life Skills Track
Tech Skills Track
Problem Solving Track
By training students in these tracks, the program aims to shape them into well-rounded professionals, ready to take on tech jobs in the IT industry based on their performance.
Where is FSSA located?
FSSA is located within its Freshworks India Private Ltd India Chennai office.
Does FSSA help me get a job?
FSSA is a training & skilling program that gives students in-classroom training and at the end of the program students will have built their portfolios and websites and will be ready for placement opportunities.
FSSA will arrange placement opportunities at the end of the program.
However, placement is based on the student's individual performance throughout the year and during the interview.
What is the duration of the program?
This is a 12 months in-classroom practical training program with a monthly stipend.
What is the medium of instruction going to be?
In Tamil and simple English. Emphasis will be given to bring Tamil medium students on par to understand & communicate in English.
Will I receive a degree or certificate upon graduating from FSSA?
This program does not offer a degree, but you will receive a certificate of completion.
What is the course fee?
It’s a zero-cost program for students.There is no course fee for this program.
Will I be offered any stipend or other incentives?
We provide a monthly stipend of Rs 10,000 per month throughout the program, from day one to the last day of the internship. Additionally, students will be provided with laptops to ensure the best software training experience.
What is expected of me during the FSSA programme?
Once students clear the admission process and become part of the Software Academy program, we expect them to maintain a high level of commitment, motivation, and hard work throughout their association with FSSA.
We evaluate students based on attendance percentage and monthly performance. If a student consistently lacks attendance or performance for three consecutive months, despite multiple interventions and communications, they may not be allowed to continue with the FSSA program.
Is boarding/lodging provided as part of the programme?
No, we do not provide boarding or lodging. For students who relocate to Chennai to attend this program, we strongly recommend that parents or guardians make boarding arrangements with a local guardian or relative who can ensure the student's safety and well-being. However, your wards can reach out to students from previous batches to obtain a list of accommodations they have used.
Will I be tied to any bond?
No, students do not sign any bonds. However, they are required to sign a contract outlining basic classroom ethics and the Code of Conduct for the Academy.
In what roles are students placed?
Students get hired as freshers who are strong generalists, who have the ability and foundation skills to adapt themselves for various roles. Based on their performances, in the past, students have been mentored into taking up roles as frontend, backend and fullstack developers, testers (manual and automation) among other roles.
Who is eligible to apply to FSSA?
Completed 12th/ 10+ Diploma .
Age range - 17 yrs to 20 yrs.
Not applicable to Degree Holders and students who have completed 2 or more years of a degree course.
Household Income of less than 20,000 per month.
Priority for Tamil medium govt. school students and those unable to continue college after 12th.
What are the different stages of the admissions process?
Step 1: Application form
This is NOT an elimination round. This step is designed to assess the basic personal, family and educational background of the applicants.
Step 2: Online Entrance Examination (FSAT - Freshworks Software Aptitude Test)
This is an elimination round. The FSAT consists of various sections designed to assess your aptitude and communication skills.
Step 3: Video/Telephonic Interviews
This is an elimination stage. The candidate's skills, will and impact will be assessed here.
Step 4: In-Person Interview
This is the final round and an elimination stage. Candidates are invited to the Freshworks office in Chennai. FSSA interviews typically last 25-40 minutes and involve a conversation between the candidate and two panelists. During this stage, we aim to evaluate their logical abilities and get to know the candidates in depth.
What is the timeline for the admissions process?
Application Opening date: 24-Mar-2025
Application close date: 10-May-2025
Online Entrance Examination FSAT: 18-May-2025
Telephonic Interview: Between 21-28 of May 2025
In-Person Interview: 7-8 of June 2025
Result Announcement for final and waiting list: 13-June-2025
How to prepare for the FSAT & Interviews?
The FSAT will be based on the Standard VIII to X Tamil Nadu SCERT syllabus Mathematics, basic logical reasoning, and communication skills.
To perform at your best, please ensure the following, in addition to being your authentic and focused self:
Read all instructions sent by FSSA carefully.
Have a computer, laptop, or smartphone with a working camera (video).
Ensure a stable internet connection for the duration of the test (1.5 hours).
What will the medium of testing be?
The test questions will be available in both English and Tamil.
Am I eligible to reapply?
You may reapply as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
I started college, but I want to join this program. Am I eligible to apply?
You're eligible to apply, particularly if you're facing financial barriers that impact your college education
Got questions about Freshworks Software Academy? Drop us a line at admissions@fssa.freshworks.com