Summer program

Summer Science Program (SSP)

Summer Science Program, Inc.

Cost Tuition-based; need-based financial aid available
Deadline See sponsor site Not yet published; confirm on sponsor site

A five-week residential research experience for rising high school seniors, with team-based research in astrophysics, biochemistry, bacterial genomics, or synthetic chemistry across multiple host college campuses. Need-based financial aid is offered.

Eligibility

Grade levels
High school junior
Citizenship
Any
Fields of study
Science, Research, Natural sciences

Application requirements

  • Submit the online SSP application: The 2026 process used separate international and domestic deadlines; applications are submitted through SSP's application portal.
  • Choose one research project: Applicants must choose one project when registering and may not apply to more than one project after the deadline.
  • Confirm required coursework by project: Relevant coursework must be taken for credit and a grade and completed by June; requirements vary by research area.
  • Request at least one science or math educator recommendation: SSP requires one recommendation from a math or science educator; a second recommendation is not required but is highly preferred.
  • Track transcript submission in the portal: SSP's FAQ tells applicants to use the status page to confirm required parts and references transcript-page errors for incomplete applications.
  • Request financial aid after admission if needed: Financial aid is requested after admission decisions; SSP says need is not considered in admissions.

Verified Jun 26, 2026 · View official source