How to apply
Applications run January–March, 2026, with acceptance notifications in late April. 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 in their junior or senior year 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:
- 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?
- CV/Resume
- Transcripts
- High School students in their junior or senior year are required to submit PSAT and SAT score reports
- One reference letter (optional for high school students)
Timeline
Step 1 – Apply (January – March, 2026)
- Complete your application through the NSF ETAP portal: NSF ETAP Portal
Step 2 – Notification (Late April, 2026)
- You’ll receive acceptance decisions
Step 3 – Attend in person (June 1 – 27, 2026)
- University of Houston – Main Campus, CBB Room #122