Please read through all related questions before messaging questions to us. Mentees: please also refer to your handbook and forums before asking questions.
General FAQ
Are the programs fully virtual?
Yes, all programs are virtual, and an asynchronous learning path is available for those who are juggling multiple things for the summer (camps, jobs, etc.).
Are there any fees for the program?
No. The program is absolutely free.
Who can apply?
Anyone who is a current high school student (grades 9 through 12) or older can apply. We highly encourage non-traditional students, like those who did not attend college, are serving in the military, or wish to re-enter the educational system, to apply. International students are welcome.
How do I apply to be a mentee?
Each program has a separate application. You can find all application links in the Apply tab
How are students selected?
In the case that we don't have enough mentors to support student interest, we will equitably prioritize students who have had less access to scientific education. Please note that we have very limited spots for both synchronous and asynchronous students.
Are you still accepting applications for Summer 2025?
Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate late applications. You are welcome to apply for the program next year.
When is the program this year?
We expect that the program will run from late June to early August.
What is the difference between the synchronous and asynchronous program?
When applying to Sci-MI, you have the option to apply to our synchronous or asynchronous program. For the synchronous program, you will have the opportunity to attend live discussions and labs, and you will have a mentor that will provide guidance on your research project. We can only accept a limited number of students to the synchronous program, as we have a limited number of mentors. However, everyone who have applied will get into the asynchronous program. While asynchronous students will not be able to attend live lectures and will not get a mentor, you will get access to our technical content, which you can learn the material at your own pace. Asynchronous students will also be able to join our online community, where you will be able to interact with other students and mentors. If you applied for the synchronous program but did not get accepted, you will automatically be transferred to our asynchronous program.
Can I still apply if I am not in the United States? Does timezone matter?
Yes, you can apply even if you are not in the United States. We welcome all international high school students. Regarding the timezone issue, the live events will be at a time that is most suitable for everyone (which means that it will mostly likely be during the US daytime hours). However, we have recordings for all of our live events for mentees to watch, so if you can not make the live event due to a timezone issue, rest assure as you can watch the recordings. For the mentor part, we will try our best to match you with a mentor that have a similar timezone as you.
What is the time commitment for the program? Can I still apply if I can not meet all the requirements?
We expect all synchronous students to spend around 10-20 hours per week on the program. For more information about the requirements, please check the Requirements section on each individual program page found here. If you apply to be a synchronous student, we expect you to be able to meet mostly all of the requirements as that is only fair to the other students who applied but were not selected. However, if you do have a valid reason that prevents you from meeting some of the requirements, you can indicate that in the application.
What is the program structure?
The program structure varies from program to program, please check the Program Structure section under each individual program page found here. The general program struture is a weekly technical lecture, journal club discussion, ethics lecture, research skills lecture, and interactive lab session (for CSMP and EEMP), along with a research project that the mentee conducts and presents at the virtual symposium at the end of the program.