Research in Science & Engineering (RISE)

Boston University's Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) program is a six-week summer research experience for high school juniors who love science. Students choose between two tracks. In the Internship track, students spend 40 hours a week on a research project designed by a BU mentor. In the Practicum track, students start each day with a two-hour lecture and then spend four hours on group research. The summer 2027 practicum topics will be announced in December. The 2027 program is planned for June 27 to August 6 for residential students and June 28 to August 6 for commuters, though these dates are still pending approval. Most students live in a BU dormitory, but commuting is allowed. RISE charges a fee: in 2026 the total was $6,415 for commuters and $10,735 for residential students, which covered housing and meals. Limited need-based financial aid is available.

Open to US citizens and legal permanent residents who are high school juniors entering their senior year in fall 2027. The most competitive applicants have an unweighted GPA in the A- to A range. Practicum students need a laptop that can run programming software. Apply online and pay a nonrefundable application fee. The application deadline for summer 2027 is February 3, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern, and applicants hear back about six to eight weeks after the deadline.