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Experiential Learning for the Future Critical Minerals Workforce

How to apply

Applications are open January through March 31, 2026 for high school students (with decisions released by mid-April), and January through April 30, 2026 for community college students (with decisions released by mid-May).The program website/application will be available via the NSF ETAP portal: NSF ETAP portal.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Applicants must be U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or permanent residents of the United States.
  • Eligible participants include community college students and high school students who are rising juniors (current 10th graders), rising seniors (current 11th graders), or current 12th graders at the time of application.
  • Participants must be able to commit to full, in‑person participation at the UH main campus for the entire four‑week program, from June 1 to June 26, 2026.
  • Participants should be interested in STEM majors, particularly those related to Geoscience, Computer and Information Sciences & Engineering, or Materials Research.

Additional Requirements

Applicants must upload the following files to apply: 

  1.  Personal Statement
    • The Personal Statement is an essay that helps us get to know you, including your background and interests in science and engineering. You are free to write about anything you find meaningful, but here are a few example questions to guide you: 1. Why do you want to participate in this program, and what do you hope to gain from it? 2. How did you become interested in science and engineering? 3. Are there people or experiences that have influenced your academic or career path? 4. What areas of science or engineering interest you the most, and why? 5. Have you worked on or learned about any projects, problems, or topics that you found especially engaging?
  2. CV/Resume
  3.  Transcripts 
  4.  High School students in their junior or senior year are required to submit PSAT and SAT score reports 
  5.  One reference letter (optional for high school students)

Timeline

 Step 1 – Apply (High School Students: January – March, 2026; Community College Students: January – April, 2026)
 Step 2 – Notification
  • You’ll receive acceptance decisions by mid-April for high school students and by mid-May for Community College Students.
 Step 3 – Attend in person (June 1 – 26, 2026)
  • University of Houston – Main Campus, CBB Room #122