Application Window: December 15, 2025 – March 9, 2026
Application reviews will begin in January to allow for the submission of transcripts that must include Fall 2025 grades. Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis.
To decide if RMP is the right fit for you, please review the eligibility requirements listed below, explore the information on our website thoroughly, and consider attending an informational webinar to learn more. You can also prepare for the application process by reviewing the elements you’ll need to submit below.
Program Dates: June 15 – July 31, 2026
Program Eligibility
All applicants must meet the following requirements:
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High school student in the 10th or 11th grade (outstanding 9th graders accepted on a case-by-case basis)
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Have a minimum 3.80 academic weighted GPA requirement
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Attend the program in its entirety, starting with the virtual component and ending with the closing events
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Due to its intensive nature, students may not concurrently enroll in other courses, activities, or programs during RMP
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International Students: TOEFL/English language proficiency exam scores are NOT needed for International applicants.
Enrolled students are required to participate in an RMP Preparation Webinar to prepare for the program. They must choose from one of the following options:
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May 28, 2026, 5:00 PM (PT)
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May 30, 2026, 9:00 AM (PT)
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May 30, 2026, 3:00 PM (PT)
Application Requirements
The 2026 online application includes:
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Transcript – You will be asked to upload a transcript that shows your entire high school academic history. You can ask your school or counselor for a copy of an unofficial transcript to submit with your application. It must include the first trimester or semester grades for the 2025–2026 academic school year. Quarter grades do not suffice for review. Transcripts will be checked and verified before applications are reviewed.
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Personal Statement – In a 500-word maximum essay, propose a process-based research question that reflects your goals and interests, share how you would go about investigating this problem, and explain why RMP is the ideal program to explore high-level research.
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Short Responses – This series of questions allows us to get to know you better. In 150 words or fewer for each response, we will ask you to answer the following prompts:
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Tell us about an idea or experience that made you absolutely excited about learning or sparked a period of personal growth.
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What does it mean to be an ethical researcher, and how would you apply these values to your work at RMP?
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What skills do you hope to develop in RMP that will set you up for success in future opportunities?
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Failure is a major component of research. Based on your past experiences, what are the potential barriers and setbacks you anticipate facing during your research journey at RMP, and how would you address them?
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AP Scores – If you have taken AP exams, you can upload a copy of your official scores. You may scan or download/print your scores from the College Board or other official institutions.
Recommendations will not be part of the 2026 RMP application review.
A limited number of need-based scholarships are available and awarded based on qualifications and availability. Priority is given to California residents. If you are interested in applying for a scholarship, you can indicate your interest within your online program application.
If you are admitted into the program, your guardian will receive an email to complete the scholarship application. Your guardian will be required to submit the following:
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2025 Federal Tax returns (e.g., 1040, 1040EZ)
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2025 W2 forms (if applicable)
Admission Process & Decision
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Students complete an online application and submit the application fee by March 9, 2026.
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Applicants are notified via email when their application (including all required materials) is complete.
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Completed applications move on to the review stage.
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Applicants will receive their admission decision approximately three to six weeks after receiving their completion email.
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Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis and communicated via email directly to the applicant.
Contact Us
For more information about the program or to inquire about the application process, please contact: precollege@summer.ucsb.edu.