Center for Excellence in Education
Research Science Institute (RSI)
Overview of Research Science Institute (RSI)
The Research Science Institute (RSI) is a cost-free summer science and engineering program for high school students at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The program combines on-campus coursework in scientific theory with off-campus work in science and technology research. Participants experience the entire research cycle, including reading current literature, executing a research plan, and delivering oral and written reports on their findings. The program includes intensive STEM classes and a five-week research internship under experienced mentors.
📍Location
In-Person, Cambridge, MA, US🇺🇸
💸 Costs & Aid
- 0
- Cost-free to students.
- The program is cost-free, so no aid or scholarships are applicable.
Eligibility Requirements
📋 General Requirements
Participants should have exceptionally strong academic ability and background. Successful applicants typically demonstrate superior scholastic achievement in mathematics, sciences, and verbal arts, potential for leadership in science and mathematics, and may have a history of participation in STEM competitions, university-level coursework, research experience, or hands-on projects.
📚 Grade Requirements
High school juniors (about to enter their last year of high school) are eligible. High school seniors are not eligible.
🌍 Eligible Countries
Citizen and Permanent resident of US🇺🇸
Worldwide🌎
Application Process
The application includes essay responses detailing goals in STEM, recommendations from two teachers (Math/Science or research supervisor), official high school transcript, and scores from nationwide standardized tests (PSAT, SAT, ACT, AP). PSAT Math scores of 740+ and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing scores of 700+ are recommended. ACT Math scores of 33+ and Verbal scores of 34+ are recommended. Lower scores may be offset by other indicators of potential. A maximum of 3 recommendation letters are accepted.
📅 Takes place each summer at MIT.
Duration
Approximately 7 weeks