Student Applications

DEADLINES

Applications for Summer 2025 will open February 14th. Dates and times are subject to change. Please check back for updates.

How To Apply

1. Form A – Complete the online application (all programs)

2. Form B – School Recommendation: Complete the top portion and give it to your high school guidance counselor (or another official from your high school). Once completed, your counselor should send the form and a copy of your high school transcript directly to STEM@ucf.edu. If the transcript cannot be emailed, please send the transcript to our mailing address. (Not needed for Geo Explorer)

3. Form C – Teacher Recommendation for Computer Science, Competitive Programming, and Mathematical Exploration applicants: Complete the top part and give it to your Mathematics/Science/Computer Science teacher (as defined under eligibility for your program). Once completed, your teacher should scan and send the form directly to STEM@ucf.edu.

Form C – Teacher Recommendation for Geo Explorer applicants: Complete the top part and give it to your Science or Social Studies teacher. Once completed, your teacher should scan and send the form directly to STEM@ucf.edu.

Computer Science Eligibility
Applicants must currently be enrolled in grades 7-11 (minimum age 13 when the institute begins) and they must show interest in Computer Science and Mathematics. Algebra I (or equivalent) is the preferred mathematics prerequisite for the programming and computer science curriculum at SI @ UCF. Applicants will be selected based on a combination of their high school transcript, teacher recommendations, and standardized test scores (PSAT, SAT or ACT). The successful applicant will have maintained a 3.0 average or above, will have shown strong performance in mathematics courses, and will have a strong recommendation from a Computer Science or Mathematics teacher or guidance counselor. Note that prior knowledge of Computer Science is NOT a prerequisite depending on level applying for. Only a very limited number of applicants (up to 35) will be accepted.

Competitive Programming Eligibility
Applicants must currently be enrolled in grades 9-12 (required minimum age 15 when the institute begins) and they must have a specific interest in programming competitions, such as USACO or Codeforces. Applicants will be selected based on a combination of their high school transcript, teacher recommendations, standardized test scores (PSAT, SAT or ACT) and programming competition performance. The successful applicant will have maintained a 3.0 average or above, will have shown strong performance in mathematics courses, and will have a strong recommendation from a Computer Science teacher. Only a very limited number of applicants (up to 35) will be accepted.

Geo Explorer Eligibility
Eligible applicants must be enrolled in grades 5 or 6 (entering grades 6 or 7 in August 2025) at the time of application. Applicants must show an interest in science, geography, mapping, and social studies. Applicants will be selected based on their application essay, teacher recommendation, and current grades. The successful applicant must have a 3.0 GPA or higher on their most recent report card and demonstrate an excitement for science and social studies. No prior experience with geospatial technologies, mapping or drones is required.

Mathematical Exploration Eligibility
Eligible applicants must be enrolled in grades 10 and 11 (entering grades 11 and 12) at the time of application. Applicants must also show an interest in mathematics and extracurricular activities. Algebra 2 (or equivalent) is the preferred prerequisite for the Mathematical Exploration Program at SI @ UCF. Applicants will be selected based on a combination of their application responses, high school GPA, and teacher recommendation. The successful applicant must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on their most recent report card, demonstrate an elevated interest in mathematics, and have a strong recommendation from a recent teacher who can address your mathematical abilities and accomplishments. Prior knowledge of Algebra 2 is a prerequisite. A maximum of 20 students will be accepted.