# Seminar for Top Engineering Prospects (STEP) STEP is Purdue University's week-long summer residential program for rising high school seniors interested in engineering, run by the College of Engineering Honors Program since 1985. Students from across the country live on the West Lafayette campus, work through hands-on engineering challenges, and get mentorship from current Purdue engineering honors students. ## What You'll Do - Tackle hands-on projects spanning design principles, physics, programming, 3D modeling, and robotics - Work in teams on innovation challenges that mirror first-year engineering coursework - Live in suite-style residence halls with fellow STEP participants and eat in campus dining courts - Connect with Purdue engineering faculty, staff, and honors-student mentors ## Who Should Apply Rising high school seniors nationwide who are serious about engineering. Purdue recommends three years of high school math and a year of chemistry or physics before attending. Applications include a transcript and PSAT/SAT/ACT scores, and are accepted until sessions fill; the 2026 attendance fee is $2,500 (covering housing, meals, activities, and local transportation), with need-based scholarships available on a first-come, first-served basis. ## Outcomes Participants leave with a realistic preview of engineering study, teamwork and design experience for college applications, and a head start on the Purdue engineering community — four one-week sessions ran July 5 through August 1 in 2026.