ScholarMates, Inc. (“ScholarMates”, “we”, “our”, “us”) values your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your information when you use our platform, website, and related services (collectively, the “Services”).

By accessing or using the Services, you agree to this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, please do not use the Services.

1. Information We Collect

We may collect the following categories of information:

a. Information You Provide

• Name, email address, date of birth, and account credentials.

• Academic information (e.g., GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, intended majors).

• Payment details (processed securely via third-party providers such as Stripe).

• Content you upload or share (e.g., essays, profiles, applications).

b. Information Collected Automatically

• Device and browser information.

• IP address and approximate location.

• Usage data (pages visited, features used, time spent).

• Cookies and similar tracking technologies.

c. Information from Third Parties

• Data from authentication providers (Google) when you sign in.

• Information from partners (e.g., schools, scholarships, or admissions platforms) if you integrate accounts.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Provide and improve the Services.

• Personalize your admissions guidance, recommendations, and tools.

• Process payments and manage subscriptions.

• Communicate with you (e.g., updates, customer support, marketing).

• Ensure security, prevent fraud, and comply with legal obligations.

3. Sharing of Information

We do not sell your personal information. We may share it in the following limited circumstances:

• Service Providers: With trusted vendors (e.g., hosting, payment processors, analytics).

• Legal Compliance: To comply with laws, regulations, or lawful requests.

• Business Transactions: In connection with mergers, acquisitions, or sale of assets.

• With Consent: If you authorize sharing (e.g., referrals, external applications).

4. Cookies & Tracking

We use cookies and similar technologies to:

• Maintain sessions and remember preferences.

• Analyze traffic and improve site performance.

• Provide targeted content and marketing.

You can control cookies through browser settings, but disabling them may affect functionality.

5. Data Retention

We retain your information as long as your account is active or as needed to provide the Services. You may request deletion at any time.

6. Your Rights

Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have rights to:

• Access, correct, or delete your personal data.

• Restrict or object to processing.

• Withdraw consent at any time.

• Request data portability.

To exercise these rights, contact us at support@scholarmates.io.

7. Children’s Privacy

ScholarMates, Inc. is not directed to children under 13 (or 16 where applicable under GDPR). We do not knowingly collect personal data from minors without parental consent. If you believe a child has provided information, contact us immediately.

8. Security

We implement administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information. However, no system is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute protection.

9. International Transfers

If you access ScholarMates, Inc. outside the United States, your information may be transferred, processed, and stored in countries where data protection laws differ from your jurisdiction.

10. Changes to this Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated “Effective Date.” Continued use of the Services after updates means you accept the revised policy.

11. Contact Us

If you have questions, requests, or complaints regarding this Privacy Policy, contact us at:

ScholarMates, Inc.
Email: support@scholarmates.io
Address: 131 Continental Dr Suite 305 Newark, Delaware, 19713 USA