STEM for Rising 9th and 10th Graders

Grades

Rising 9th and 10th grade students only

Age

Typically ages 13-15

Citizenship

Open to students from all 50 US states, territories, and 75+ countries

Prerequisites

Strong interest and aptitude in STEM fields; likely requires some academic background in math/science

Steps

1. Complete online application through Brown Pre-College portal
2. Submit application materials before rolling deadline
3. Join waitlist if course is full
4. Receive admission decision
5. Enroll and complete pre-program requirements

Materials Needed

• Online application form
• Academic information/transcripts
• Personal statement/essay (likely required)
• Proof of grade level
• Contact information

Timeline

Applications for Summer 2026 closed; Summer 2027 applications open in winter/early spring 2026. Interested students should submit inquiry form to be contacted by admissions team. Apply early as courses fill quickly.

Cost

Specific tuition not published in search results; likely $3,000-$5,000+ based on typical Ivy League pre-college programs; financial aid may be available

What Judges Look For

• Demonstrated passion and interest in STEM
• Academic rigor and STEM performance in school
• Curiosity and engagement with hands-on learning
• Ability to work in collaborative research environments
• Clear articulation of STEM goals and interests
• Potential to benefit from advanced academic experiences

Scoring

Not publicly available; appears to use holistic review process evaluating student interest, academic preparation, and fit for research-intensive program

Common Mistakes

• Applying too late (rolling admission means early applicants get priority course selection)
• Not demonstrating genuine STEM passion in application
• Waiting until all courses are full/on waitlist
• Generic application without specific course interests mentioned
• Underestimating the competitive nature of the program

Acceptance Rate

Not officially published; likely highly selective (estimated 20-35% based on Brown Pre-College reputation and Tier 3 prestige)

Applicants

Unknown; Brown Pre-College enrolls 6,000+ students total across all programs

Winners / Selected

Varies by course; most STEM courses currently on waitlist indicating high demand

• Apply EARLY in the admissions cycle - rolling admission means spots fill quickly and courses move to waitlist
• Research specific STEM courses offered and demonstrate knowledge of which aligns with your interests
• Highlight past STEM achievements, projects, or competitions
• Show genuine passion for hands-on research, not just academics
• Explain how this program fits your STEM trajectory and goals
• If your first choice course is full, be prepared with alternative course selections
• Join the waitlist if necessary - some spots may open as students defer
• Submit inquiry form for Summer 2027 early to get on mailing list
• Emphasize collaboration skills and ability to work in team research environments
• Show you understand what distinguishes this program (Brown faculty connection, research focus, graduate student mentorship)

How to Prepare

• Build strong foundation in math and science coursework
• Participate in STEM clubs or competitions at your school
• Seek out hands-on science experiments or projects
• Research Brown's STEM program details and specific course offerings
• Draft personal statement highlighting STEM interests and goals
• Gather academic references and transcripts
• Prepare for potential interview if part of application process
• Stay informed about application deadlines for following year

Resources

• Brown Pre-College official website: precollege.brown.edu
• Brown University main website for institutional information
• STEM summer program guides and comparison sites
• College Confidential forums (may have limited Brown Pre-College discussion)
• High school counselor - may have past student experiences
• Brown University admissions office for program-specific questions

Time Needed

4-6 weeks minimum to research, prepare application materials, and write compelling essays; ideally start planning 2-3 months before application deadline

Successful applicants typically are academically strong rising 9th-10th graders with demonstrated STEM interest through coursework, clubs, or projects. They articulate clear STEM goals, show enthusiasm for hands-on research and experimentation, and come from diverse geographic and international backgrounds. Winners represent a mix of students already committed to STEM careers and those exploring STEM for the first time with genuine curiosity.

Brown Pre-College programs, particularly selective STEM offerings, carry significant weight in college admissions. Attending a prestigious Ivy League summer program demonstrates initiative, academic rigor, and genuine interest in STEM. Admissions officers view it favorably as evidence of student commitment and ability to succeed in challenging academic environments. The program experience and completion can strengthen college applications, particularly when applying to Brown or other selective schools. Having participated in research projects with potential presentations adds meaningful content for college essays and interviews.

• Congressional App Challenge — Tier 3, competition
• ARML (American Regions Mathematics League) — Tier 3, competition
• AMC (American Mathematics Competitions) — Tier 3, competition
• National Science Bowl — Tier 3, competition
• Science Olympiad — Tier 3, competition