Application Window: December 15, 2025 – March 23, 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 SRA is the right fit for you, please review the eligibility requirements listed below, explore the descriptions of the research tracks thoroughly to see what options speak to you, and consider attending an informational webinar to learn more. You can also prepare for the application process by reviewing the elements you’ll be required to submit below.
Program Dates: June 24 – July 26, 2026
Program Eligibility
All applicants must meet the following requirements:
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High school student in the 9th, 10th, or 11th grade
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Have a minimum 3.60 academic weighted GPA requirement
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Attend the program in its entirety, from the Welcome Event to the closing events
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Due to its intensive nature, students may not concurrently enroll in other courses, activities, or programs during SRA
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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 SRA Preparation Webinar to prepare for the program. They must choose from one of the following options:
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May 30, 2026, 11:00 AM (PT)
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May 30, 2026, 1:00 PM (PT)
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June 1, 2026, 5:00 PM (PT)
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June 2, 2026, 4:00 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, tell us why your chosen track(s) deeply interest you and what questions you are excited to explore within these fields. Describe how SRA will support your development as a researcher.
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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 a researcher in your field of interest who inspires you and why.
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What role do you take in an academically collaborative setting, and how do you contribute to both your learning and the success of others?
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What is something about your personal identity or experience that makes you unique?
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Describe a significant setback you have faced, and how this experience impacted your growth as an individual.
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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 23, 2026.
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Applicants are notified via email when their application 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 five weeks after receiving their completion email.
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Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis and communicated by 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