Application Update

Application decisions for summer 2024 have been posted to your application profile. Either log in or check your email to view the decision on your application.

Summer 2024 Application is now closed

Applications for Summer 2025 will open in mid-January 2025

Apply here: https://ysp-app.ucdavis.edu/

To be eligible to participate:

• Must be a rising senior (in your junior year when applying

• Must be 16 years of age by the first day of the program but not 18 years of age before the last day of the program.

• Must be a US resident and attend school in the US

No exceptions will be granted. Requests for exceptions will not receive a response.

2025 Program Dates: June 22 – August 2

Application Procedures 

Anticipated Application Time Period: January 15 – March 15, 2025

An online, nonrefundable application fee of $40 is required. Students wishing to request a waiver of the application fee should complete the form HERE prior to submitting the online application.

Online Application Components

The online Young Scholars Program application requires the following:

• Student, parent and referring teacher contact information
• School information, including weighted and un­weighted GPAs
• Two teacher referrences submitted through the Young Scholars Program teacher recommendation website. The online recommendations will form the primary reference, separate, formal letters of recommendation are not required and will not be reviewed
  • One reference MUST be from a science teacher
  • The other must be from another teacher
  • Recommendations from counselors or mentors from outside of school are discouraged
  • References are due at the same time applications are due - Be sure to plan ahead!
• Summary of school activities and other interests, activities and research experiences
• Personal essays

Optional: Students requesting a fee reduction should send a letter from the parents or guardians explaining the family’s financial circumstances and submit that HERE

Requests for fee reductions should be received by the application deadline.