The New York Academy of Sciences
The Junior Academy
Overview of The Junior Academy
The Junior Academy is a project-based learning program where students form international teams and work with STEM experts through an online community platform. Students participate in innovation challenges where they collaborate under the guidance of STEM mentors to design solutions to real-world problems. Students and mentors can participate from anywhere in the world.
📍Location
Online
📅 Application deadlines
- Jul 1, 2025
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💸 Costs & Aid
- The program is completely free for participating students.
Eligibility Requirements
📋 General Requirements
Junior Academy participants are enthusiastic learners and problem solvers with a passion for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). They have a desire to collaborate with international peers to address the world’s most pressing challenges. All program content and communication on the platform is in English, and a strong level of English proficiency is required. Students’ English proficiency will be assessed during the application process. Applications must be submitted in English and parental or guardian consent forms must be signed.
👥 Age Requirements
13–17 years old. If you are turning 18 during the challenge, unfortunately you cannot participate. Students who turn 18 automatically get placed into an Alumni Community on Launchpad.
🌍 Eligible Countries
Worldwide
Application Process
Applications for students interested in joining the Junior Academy in the Fall of 2025 will open on March 27th, 2025 and will close on July 1, 2025. Students who are already part of the Junior Academy on Launchpad do NOT need to apply again in order to participate the following year. Admission decisions for the Fall 2025 recruitment period will be sent out on August 31, 2025. Every application undergoes a review to ensure passionate students are offered the opportunity to join the Junior Academy.
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Duration
2 months
Program Dates
Sep - Nov
Application Deadlines
- Jul 1, 2025 — Regular
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Application Fee: FreeThe Junior Academy is completely free for participating students.
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Duration
2 months
Program Dates
Feb - Apr
Application Deadlines
- Jan — Regular
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Application Fee: FreeThe Junior Academy is completely free for participating students.