SAMS (Summer Academy for Math and Science) at CMU

The Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS) at Carnegie Mellon University is a 6-week, residential pre-college program designed for high school students from underrepresented and/or historically marginalized communities in STEM. Participants take a rigorous schedule of math and science courses, explore STEM majors, and engage in academic support sessions that build problem-solving, quantitative reasoning, and critical thinking skills. The program is tuition-free, and core expenses are covered, making it accessible to students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience a university-level STEM environment.

Students live on campus, interact with CMU faculty, staff, and current students, and participate in workshops that support college readiness—including preparation for selective college admissions, exposure to STEM career paths, and guidance on navigating the transition to college-level coursework. This experience can strengthen college applications by demonstrating preparedness for advanced study, sustained interest in STEM, and success in a demanding academic setting.

SAMS is a strong fit for students who:

• Are rising high school juniors or seniors (check the website for specific eligibility)
• Have a serious interest in STEM fields
• Seek challenge beyond their school’s available coursework
• Are motivated to engage in a diverse, collaborative learning community

More details, including eligibility and application requirements, are available on the program website.

How much does SAMS (Summer Academy for Math and Science) at CMU cost?

SAMS (Summer Academy for Math and Science) at CMU is free. Its official page says “There is no cost for scholars to participate”. That sentence is what we verified — if you need to budget for anything it does not mention, check the page.

Who is eligible for SAMS (Summer Academy for Math and Science) at CMU?

SAMS (Summer Academy for Math and Science) at CMU is open to high school juniors. Its official page puts it as “you must be between your 11th and 12th grade years in high school during the summer of 2026”. Some programs add requirements a grade range cannot capture — GPA, coursework, essays, recommendations — so read the full criteria there.

Is SAMS (Summer Academy for Math and Science) at CMU online or in person?

SAMS (Summer Academy for Math and Science) at CMU is an in-person program based in Pittsburgh, PA.

How do I apply to SAMS (Summer Academy for Math and Science) at CMU?

Apply directly through Carnegie Mellon University's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.