TASS vs RSI: Which Program Is Right for You?
These are the flagship free summer programs on opposite sides of the aisle: TASS is a humanities/critical-theory seminar community, RSI is a STEM research placement. Choose by the transcript you're building, not by prestige — both clear that bar.
Below is a live side-by-side comparison of Telluride Association Summer Seminars (TASS) and Research Science Institute (RSI), built from ExtracurricularHub's verified catalog.
| TASS | RSI | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Free |
| Application deadline | December 3, 2026 (verified July 4, 2026) | December 16, 2026 (verified July 4, 2026) |
| Grade eligibility | Grades 10–11 | Grade 11 |
| Format | In-person — Ann Arbor, MI | In-person — Cambridge, MA |
| Time commitment | ~40 hrs/week | Varies |
| Organizer | Telluride Association | Center for Excellence in Education |
Telluride Association Summer Seminars (TASS)
Explore a free in-person summer program for high school students in grades 10-11. Build leadership skills, study humanities, and boost your college applications through critical discussions.
Research Science Institute (RSI)
Most selective free summer science program in the US.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, TASS or RSI?
Both are free: neither TASS nor RSI charges a participation fee. Budget only for travel or materials if the program is in person.
Can I apply to both TASS and RSI?
Yes — applying to both is common and there's no penalty. Selective programs reject strong applicants routinely, so treating TASS and RSI as one combined chance is the smart strategy. Track both deadlines and reuse essay material where the prompts overlap.
Which is better for college applications, TASS or RSI?
Neither is automatically "better" — admissions readers care about what you did there, not the logo. These are the flagship free summer programs on opposite sides of the aisle: TASS is a humanities/critical-theory seminar community, RSI is a STEM research placement. Choose by the transcript you're building, not by prestige — both clear that bar. Pick the one whose work you'd actually finish, and go deep.
What grades can apply to TASS and RSI?
TASS: grades 10–11. RSI: grade 11. Eligibility can shift between cycles — confirm on each program's official page before planning your year around it.