As summer approaches, high schoolers with a passion for mathematics have the exciting opportunity to expand their horizons, deepen their understanding, and connect with like-minded peers through specialized summer programs.

From the prestigious courtyards of Stanford University to the innovative classrooms of NYU, there's a program tailored to almost every interest within the mathematical sciences.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into five great math summer programs designed specifically for high school students.

Each offers a unique blend of academic rigor, collaborative projects, and enrichment opportunities that promise not only to challenge but also to inspire the next generation of mathematicians.

Whether you're looking to tackle number theory, algebra, discrete mathematics, or beyond, these programs offer a chance to push the boundaries of your knowledge and abilities in an inspiring and supportive environment!

1. Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS) PROMYS (Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists) at Boston University is a six-week, in-depth summer program that focuses on number theory and encourages high school students to approach mathematical problems with a spirit of discovery and perseverance.

It distinguishes itself by treating participants as mathematicians from the outset, fostering an environment where learning through exploration and problem-solving is prioritized over direct instruction.

The program aims to develop mathematical habits of mind, such as independence, creativity, and precise communication, which are valuable across various fields of study and careers.

Central to PROMYS is its collaborative and inclusive community, bringing together students, educators, and professional mathematicians in a non-competitive atmosphere.

This approach not only enhances the learning experience but also emphasizes the deeply human aspect of mathematics.

Financial barriers are minimized through generous need-based aid, ensuring broad access to the program.

Furthermore, PROMYS extends its impact globally with initiatives like PROMYS Europe and PROMYS India, and through outreach programs targeting underrepresented and low-income students, thereby reinforcing its commitment to fostering a diverse and dynamic mathematical community. "PROMYS made me feel like a true mathematician for the first time in my life [. ]" Deyuan Li, Student 2018-2019, Junior Counselor 2020 Program dates: Late June to Early August Cost: $6,100 Eligibility:  Applicant must be age 14-18 OR have completed at least 9th grade before program Application Deadline: Early March

2. Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science (MITES) The Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science (MITES) program at MIT is an on-campus experience that offers high school students a deep dive into the world of STEM.

Participants engage in challenging academic courses in core subjects like mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, and collaborate on team-based research projects, applying classroom theories to tackle real-world issues under the mentorship of MIT professionals.

Beyond academics, the program features enriching guest lectures from leading MIT faculty and industry experts, comprehensive college admissions counseling, and a host of social and cultural activities to foster community and exploration.

It offers a structured weekday schedule of classes, recitations, workshops, and campus tours, complemented by social events, study sessions, and opportunities to explore Boston during evenings and weekends.

A perk: participants are provided with free room and board.

MITES also offers each student a personalized written evaluation at the program’s end, detailing their academic strengths, areas for growth, and class contributions, something invaluable for college applications.

Program dates: Late June to early August (6 weeks) Cost: Free!

Eligibility:  Applicant must be a high school junior Minimum

3. 5 GPA Deadline: February 2025

3. Research Science Institute (RSI) The Research Science Institute (RSI) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a premier summer program that stands as STANDARD of excellence in fostering young scientific minds.

The program is renowned not only for its rigorous selection process (selecting only 80 from thousands of applicants), but is ALSO known well as one of, if not THE MOST prestigious research programs in the world.

Hosted by MIT and CEE, RSI is meticulously structured to provide a comprehensive research experience.

Students are mentored through intensive research projects by leading scientists and researchers, predominantly at MIT and Harvard.

The program culminates in the RSI Final Symposium, a platform where students present their research findings.

RSI isn’t just a summer program, but a TRANSFORMATIVE experience that nurtures the next generation of scientific leaders, offering them a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and to form lasting connections with like-minded peers and distinguished mentors alike.

The program’s legacy is evident in its alumni, who continue to make significant contributions to science and technology. “Pinterest co-founder Ben Silbermann and American physicist Jeremy England attended RSI in 199

8. Broad Institute and MIT neurobiologist, optogenetics pioneer, developer of the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing method, and “35 Innovators Under 35” laureate Feng Zhang attended RSI in 199

9. ” Wikipedia Program dates: Late June to August (6 weeks) Acceptance Rate: Free!

Eligibility:  All high school juniors Deadline: December 2024 https://www. youtube. com/watch?time_continue=10&v=5upW1YuHZIo&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fblog. rishabacademy. com%2F&source_ve_path=Mjg2NjY&feature=emb_logo  To see Rishab Jain’s full breakdown of how he got into RSI (covering his activities, stats, AND the details of his essay), watch this!

It’ll go through EXACTLY what he did and submitted to earn him a spot, and is GUARANTEED to help you not just in applying for the Research Science Institute, but ANY selective STEM programs.

4. Summer Math Program for Young Scholars The Summer Math Program for Young Scholars at NYU's Center for Mathematical Talent offers a focused three-week curriculum for high school students in grades 9-1

1. It's set in NYU's Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences, renowned for its mathematical rigor and excellence.

Students immerse in undergraduate-level topics such as number theory, graph theory, topology, and computer science, aiming to boost their mathematical skills in preparation for college.

This program emphasizes both collaborative and independent coursework, providing a rich, stimulating environment for students to explore mathematical sciences and envision a future career in the field.

Lectures are conducted by Courant faculty, followed by problem sessions led by graduate student assistants to foster collaborative learning and problem-solving skills.

Additionally, the program integrates sessions for mathematical games and puzzles, alongside daily talks on the practical applications of mathematics, college admissions, and campus life.

It actively encourages participation from academically strong students from underserved communities, highlighting its commitment to accessible, high-quality math education.

While non-credit and non-residential, the program offers a unique platform for young scholars to connect with a global community of math enthusiasts and professionals, setting a foundation for their academic and professional futures in mathematics.

Program dates: Early to late August (12

- 30) Cost: $1750 (financial aid and scholarships are available) Eligibility:  Applicant must be currently enrolled in grade 9, 10, or 11 Applicant should have a “good academic standing” (math grades B

- or higher) Application Deadline: May 1

5. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC) Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC) welcomes high-achieving high school juniors and seniors to Stanford University for a concentrated summer session focused on advanced mathematics topics such as number theory, algebra, and discrete mathematics.

The curriculum challenges students through a combination of classwork, problem-solving collaborations, and projects, aimed at deepening their understanding of math and enhancing their analytical skills.

The program also includes lectures by Stanford faculty and opportunities for direct interaction, offering insights into academic and research careers in mathematics.

SUMaC provides a unique educational setting that encourages students to explore significant mathematical theories, their historical development, and their application in various scientific fields.

Both online and residential options are available, accommodating students' needs and preferences.

By joining SUMaC, students enter a community of peers sharing a strong interest in mathematics, fostering an environment of mutual learning and discovery.

Program dates: June 17 to July 5 (Session 1: Online), June 23 to July 19 (Session 1: Residential), July 8 to July 26 (Session 2: Online) Cost: $8,250 Eligibility:  Applicant must be in 10th or 11th grade at the time of application Applicant should have an exceptional interest in mathematics and experience writing and reading mathematical proofs, as well as strong high school geometry and algebra mastery Application Deadline: Early February 50 More STEM Opportunities for High Schoolers Download list of 50+ more STEM research programs!

Want some more insight on the best programs, competitions, and opportunities for aspiring researchers and ambitious students?

Get this list here for free: https://www. rishabacademy. com/guide.