Stellic: From Classroom Project to Global EdTech Solution

Doha, Qatar – Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q), a Qatar Foundation partner university, recently welcomed back computer science alumni Sabih Bin Wasi, Rukhsar Neyaz, and Musab Popatia, co-founders of the globally successful startup, Stellic.  

Stellic, a degree-planning platform used by universities worldwide, serves over a million students and has become a vital tool for academic planning. Founded in 2015, the startup began as a class project before securing initial funding through Qatar Science & Technology Park’s (QSTP) XLR8 program. 

Today, Stellic operates from Silicon Valley, serving over 100 universities and colleges worldwide. The platform assists more than a million students in effectively planning their academic journeys. In 2022, Stellic secured $11 million in Series A funding led by Reach Capital, enabling further expansion and enhancement of its services.

The event, part of CMU-Q’s Dean’s Panel Series, highlighted Stellic’s remarkable journey from a student-led initiative to an internationally recognized education technology company. The discussion underscored how the co-founders’ experiences at CMU-Q shaped their ability to tackle complex challenges, maintain high standards, and develop an entrepreneurial mindset.  

With guidance from Maher Hakim, a distinguished career professor of business administration at CMU-Q, the trio transformed their idea into a thriving business. Their success story serves as an inspiration to current students, emphasizing the impact of perseverance, innovative thinking, and rigorous academic preparation.  

CMU-Q continues to engage industry leaders, researchers, and government experts through its panel series, providing students with insights into cutting-edge developments in science, business, and technology. The university offers undergraduate programs in biological sciences, business administration, computer science, and information systems, preparing students to contribute to various industries worldwide.