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:
-
High school student in the 9th, 10th, or 11th grade
-
Have a minimum 3.60 academic weighted GPA requirement
-
Attend the program in its entirety, from the Welcome Event to the closing events
-
Due to its intensive nature, students may not concurrently enroll in other courses, activities, or programs during SRA
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:
-
May 30, 2026, 11:00 AM (PT)
-
May 30, 2026, 1:00 PM (PT)
-
June 1, 2026, 5:00 PM (PT)
-
June 2, 2026, 4:00 PM (PT)
Application Requirements
2026 online application information will be published in late October.
The 2025 online application includes:
-
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 2024–2025 academic school year. Transcripts will be checked and verified before applications are reviewed.
-
Personal Statement – In a 500-word maximum essay, please tell us why you want to participate in SRA, the reason you selected a particular research track(s), and something unique about you for the admissions committee to know.
-
Short Responses – This series of questions allows us to get to know you better. We will ask you to:
-
Briefly share what you specifically hope to learn from the track(s) you have chosen. (150 words max.)
-
What skills, interests, or talents do you possess that will enable you to succeed in the chosen track(s)? (150 words max.)
-
Describe how you will develop your academic and/or personal goals at SRA. (150 words max.)
-
Create a hashtag describing you and/or your life and elaborate on why you chose it. (50 words max.)
-
International Students: TOEFL/English language proficiency exam scores are NOT needed for International applicants.
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:
-
2025 Federal Tax returns (e.g., 1040, 1040EZ)
-
2025 W2 forms (if applicable)
Admission Process & Decision
-
Students complete an online application and submit the application fee by March 23, 2026.
-
Applicants are notified via email when their application is complete.
-
Completed applications move on to the review stage.
-
Applicants will receive their admission decision approximately three to five weeks after receiving their completion email.
-
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