Menezes Challenge PRIMES Circle is a free after-school math enrichment program for talented high school students living within commuting distance from Boston.
Menezes Challenge PRIMES Circle is a wonderful way for high school students to learn fun and exciting mathematics that isn’t normally covered in school. As a Circle Scholar, you will work with a tight-knit group of peers under the mentorship of a knowledgeable and friendly MIT undergrad, who can answer your questions about math, college life, and MIT. You will be able to study topics that are tailored to your background and interests, and to find new areas of exploration that particularly excite you. PRIMES Circle will expand your way of thinking and help you grow as a student and mathematician. You’ll leave the program with new knowledge, problem solving skills, and the support of the Circle community. We’re excited to be the new coordinators of PRIMES Circle and look forward to receiving your applications.
Location(s)
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, Massachusetts
Schedule
- February - May
Cost/Compensation
- Free
Eligibility Requirements
- High school students living within commuting distance from Boston are eligible. The students are selected on the basis of their academic record, teachers' recommendations, demonstrated ability and interest in mathematics, and their resilience, resourcefulness, and initiative in overcoming barriers to learning.
- Students from underserved populations are VERY STRONGLY encouraged to apply.
- Past participants are not eligible to apply to PRIMES Circle in subsequent years. They are encouraged to apply to the MIT PRIMES program.
Deadline
- November 30th, 2025
Application or Entry Requirements
- A questionnaire with basic personal and background information and a one-page personal statement explaining your interest in PRIMES Circle.
- A copy of your most recent school transcript.
- Two letters of recommendation from people who know you well, preferably from those familiar with advanced mathematics, such as math/science teachers or counselors in math/science camps/programs.
Notifications of Decisions
Financial Aid Details
Other Dates to Keep in Mind
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The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a private research university located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. MIT is renowned for its strong emphasis on scientific and technological research and innovation, and offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in fields ranging from engineering and computer science to economics and architecture. MIT has a long history of producing notable alumni, including 96 Nobel laureates, 58 National Medal of Science recipients, and 29 MacArthur ""Genius Grant"" recipients. Additionally, its strong culture of entrepreneurship has led to the founding of many successful startups and companies by MIT alumni or faculty. Notable examples include Dropbox, Akamai Technologies, and Bose Corporation. The university's campus, situated along the Charles River Basin, features a mix of historic and modern architecture, including works by renowned architects such as Frank Gehry and I.M. Pei.
