# Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASP) The Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASP) is one of the most prestigious and selective summer programs for rising high school seniors in the United States. Organized by the Telluride Association, TASP offers intellectually curious students the opportunity to participate in free, intensive six-week humanities seminars held at top-tier universities such as Cornell University and the University of Michigan. With an acceptance rate of less than 5%, this program is designed for highly motivated students who are eager to engage in deep, thought-provoking discussions and develop lifelong skills in critical thinking and communication. ## Program Structure TASP is an **in-person, six-week summer program** that combines rigorous academic learning with personal growth and community engagement. Participants (referred to as “Taspians”) attend daily seminars led by distinguished university faculty. The seminars focus on humanities topics, which vary each year and might include subjects like philosophy, literature, history, or cultural studies. In addition to the academic component, TASP fosters a collaborative and inclusive residential community. Students live together on campus, participate in group discussions, and engage in cultural activities and self-governance. This immersive format allows participants to build close connections with peers and mentors while sharpening their intellectual and interpersonal skills. ## What Students Experience At TASP, students delve deeply into complex and challenging ideas. Seminars are designed to be discussion-based, encouraging participants to think critically, articulate their perspectives, and engage openly with diverse viewpoints. Outside the classroom, students take part in group projects, creative activities, and community discussions that emphasize personal and intellectual growth. A unique aspect of TASP is its self-governance model. Students are responsible for organizing some aspects of their daily lives, such as planning events and managing shared responsibilities, which fosters leadership, teamwork, and a sense of independence. Mentorship is another key component of TASP. Participants work closely with seminar leaders (distinguished faculty) and program staff, gaining valuable guidance and feedback on their academic work and personal development. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Participating in TASP is a remarkable achievement that demonstrates intellectual curiosity, leadership, and a commitment to personal growth. With its highly selective admission process, being chosen as a TASP participant signals to colleges that a student is among the most talented and driven of their peers. The program’s emphasis on critical thinking, writing, and discussion equips students with skills that are highly valued in higher education. Additionally, the connections students forge with peers and mentors can provide a strong foundation for future academic and professional success. ## Eligibility TASP is open to high school students who **will be entering their senior year (11th grade)** in the fall following the program. Applicants should demonstrate a passion for learning, intellectual curiosity, and a willingness to engage with new ideas and perspectives. There are no specific GPA or test score requirements; instead, the program seeks students who show exceptional promise and a genuine interest in the humanities. ## How to Participate The application process for TASP is rigorous and requires a commitment of time and effort. Students must complete an online application, which typically includes essay responses, short answer questions, and teacher recommendations. The application process is designed to identify students who are not only academically capable but also eager to contribute to and benefit from the program's collaborative community. Typically, the application is available in the fall, with a deadline in early winter. Interested students should visit the [Telluride Association website](https://www.tellurideassociation.org) for the most up-to-date information about the application timeline and requirements. TASP is **completely free**, including tuition, housing, and meals, making it accessible to students from all backgrounds. This ensures that financial constraints do not prevent talented students from participating in this life-changing experience.