# SPARC (Summer Program on Applied Rationality and Cognition)

Free ~10-day summer program (July 22-August 1, 2026 at Cal State East Bay) where quantitatively talented high schoolers take small, discussion-based classes applying advanced math to real-world reasoning.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | SPARC |
| Category | stem |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Hayward, CA |
| Program dates | 2026-07-22 to 2026-08-01 |
| Apply | https://sparc.camp/ |

## About this program

# SPARC (Summer Program on Applied Rationality and Cognition)

SPARC is a free program for talented high schoolers to develop quantitative skills and apply them to the world. Run by a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and staffed by researchers and practitioners from academia and industry, SPARC teaches the kind of applied mathematical thinking — modeling, decision-making, cognition — that sits between olympiad math and real research. The 2026 session runs July 22 to August 1 at California State University East Bay.

## What You'll Do

- Take small, discussion-based classes covering undergraduate and graduate-level quantitative concepts
- Apply mathematical tools to practical reasoning, cognition, and real-world problems
- Learn directly from guest speakers drawn from academia and industry
- Live and study with a small cohort of mathematically talented peers from across the country

## Who Should Apply

High school students with strong quantitative backgrounds — many participants have math competition experience, though it is not required — who want to use math as a thinking tool rather than only a contest skill. The program is free for all admitted students, which makes it accessible regardless of family finances.

## Outcomes

Alumni leave with exposure to advanced material years ahead of the standard curriculum, a dense network of quantitatively ambitious peers and instructors, and a distinctive, highly selective program on their record. Applications for each summer typically open in winter and close in early spring.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does SPARC (Summer Program on Applied Rationality and Cognition) cost?

SPARC (Summer Program on Applied Rationality and Cognition) is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

### Who is eligible for SPARC (Summer Program on Applied Rationality and Cognition)?

SPARC (Summer Program on Applied Rationality and Cognition) is open to high school students in grades 9–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is SPARC (Summer Program on Applied Rationality and Cognition) online or in person?

SPARC (Summer Program on Applied Rationality and Cognition) is an in-person program based in Hayward, CA.

### How do I apply to SPARC (Summer Program on Applied Rationality and Cognition)?

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

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Last updated: 2026-07-06.
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