Carnegie Mellon Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS)

For over twenty years, the Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS) program has engaged students in a rigorous curriculum taught by faculty and staff who are deeply committed to student success. Led by the Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion, SAMS allows students to develop a deeper understanding of STEM via traditional classroom instruction, through hands-on projects, and sustained engagement with world-renowned faculty and skilled staff mentors. In addition to their academic experiences, students also have the opportunity to collaborate and develop meaningful relationships with peers from across the country.

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Through SAMS and other outreach initiatives, the university:

• Develops a diverse and supportive community of STEM Scholars interested in attending top-tier universities.
• Strengthens students’ commitment to pursuing STEM-related disciplines.
• Broadens students understanding and access to opportunities made available through study in STEM.
• Equips students with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to be successful STEM scholars.

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SAMS consists of two parts: 

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PART 1: Part one of the SAMS program will occur prior to the start of the residential program. This will be a virtual jumpstart for participants, focusing on some skill-building that will be needed for the in-person program. During this time the program will be connecting virtually for portions of these days, but students will not be needed for full days.  

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PART 2: Part two of the SAMS program will be a 6 week, in-person Pre-College program.  SAMS Scholars will be in courses and meetings for full days during the time they are here. The academic portion of the program will conclude with the symposium on the final Friday of the program.

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SAMS is a fully funded, merit-based program. All SAMS Scholars are expected to participate fully for the duration of the program and will not be permitted to participate in any other programs (virtual or in person) if program dates conflict. Students selected for the SAMS program demonstrate a strong interest in STEM disciplines and have an experience that demonstrates a commitment to diversity and inclusion in education, extra-curricular activities, and/or community engagement. Students from the following backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply:

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• Low socioeconomic status, which may be indicated by eligibility for public assistance programs or free/reduced lunch
• Raised in a home where English was a second language
• First-generation college students (parent(s) did not complete a bachelor’s degree)
• Currently attending a high school with historically low rates of admittance to top-tier institutions.

• Be at least 16 years old by the program start date.
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Be in 11th grade in high school at the time of application submission.
• Demonstrate financial need

• February 1, 2025 (preferred deadline)
• March 1, 2025 (final deadline)

• Online application
• Unofficial high school transcript
• Standardized test scores (optional)
• Two (2) letters of recommendation (one must be from a current math instructor)
• Completion of two essay prompts indicated in the application

• April 4th, 2025