Frequently Asked Questions + Help

What is the research schedule? How do I meet with my advisor?
The program lasts 8 weeks. Further details are to be worked out with your advisor. You are required to complete 20 hours per week.

Where do I work?
This should be discussed with your advisor and program staff. You are required to participate in person in the research presentations as scheduled.

What is expected of a high school summer scholar?
See the section of this website on Guidelines + Expectations.

I'm a high school senior. Can I still apply?
Only juniors prior to the summer are eligible for this program at the present time.  Juniors must attend The Preuss School UCSD, Gompers Preparatory Academy or Lincoln High School.  Check back in early 2015 for eligibility rules for the next class of summer scholars as this requirement may change.

Are international students accepted?
At present, only students attending UC San Diego Preuss School, Gompers Preparatory, and Lincoln High School are eligible to apply, but these restrictions may change for the summer 2015 program.

Are late applications accepted?
Late applications are usually not accepted unless there are extenuating circumstances that prevent submission of the application before the deadline. Moreover, applications received before the deadlines are given first priority.  The deadline to apply for the 2014 Summer Scholars Program is April 21, 2014 before 5pm PST.

How do I find an advisor?
Students are not required to find an advisor. The program will match high school students with faculty advisors and Qualcomm Institute undergraduate summer scholars, taking into account faculty needs and the student’s background and essay.

How do I submit a letter of recommendation from my high school advisor?
Upon applying to be a summer scholar, you will be asked to enter your advisor's full name and email address. Once you have submitted your application, your advisor will be notified through email with instructions on how to upload the recommendation letter. Please keep in mind that your advisor MUST complete this form by the designated date (before 5pm PST on April 21, 2014). Therefore, it is recommended that you submit your application well before the deadline to give your advisor time to complete his/her portion.

What's the competition like?
This is the second year of the program and we hope to match one high school student to work with each undergraduate scholar (usually between 25 and 30 Calit2 Scholars).

Is there an interview?
Yes.  Once you submit your application, it will be under review and you will be notified by the end of May 2014 of whether you will be granted an interview to determine placement in the program.

If I have a question about the program, where do I go?
Be sure to email your comment or question to summerscholars@calit2.net.

What's Ahead