Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS)

Eligibility

Grade levels

High school junior

Citizenship

U.S. citizen or permanent resident

Fields of study

Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Computer science, Research

Essay

Required

Application requirements

• Submit the online SAMS application: CMU says the SAMS application includes more specific details, but applicants can expect an online application.
• Upload unofficial high-school transcript: The application requirements list an unofficial high-school transcript.
• Submit standardized test scores: CMU lists standardized test scores among expected SAMS application requirements.
• Request two recommendation letters: Two letters are required; one must be from a current math instructor unless the applicant emails SAMS about that limitation.
• Complete the SAMS essay prompts: Applicants complete one general CMU Pre-College essay and one SAMS-specific essay prompt.
  Essay prompts

  • What do you hope to gain from participating in Carnegie Mellon's Pre-College Programs? 300-500 words
  • Describe a time when you faced a significant challenge in a math or science class. How did you address it and what did you learn about your own persistence and problem solving skills? no more than 1000 words
  • As a STEM scholar, think about a problem in a community you care about. How can you use STEM-based solutions to address or improve the situation? no more than 1000 words
• Submit required financial documentation: SAMS says financial documentation is required for application submission because the program is fully funded and merit-based.