UMKC STAHR High School Scholars

# UMKC STAHR High School Scholars STAHR - Students Training in Academia, Health, and Research - is the UMKC School of Medicine's pipeline program for future health professionals. The High School Scholars track brings sophomores and juniors onto UMKC's Health Sciences Campus in Kansas City for an intensive six-week summer program (June 8 - July 17 in 2026), then continues with programming through the following April. Participation is free, and students who meet program expectations receive financial support as a stipend or scholarship. ## What You'll Do - Participate in clinical observations with practicing dental, medical, and pharmacy professionals - Conduct a health-related research project mentored by UMKC faculty - Commit about 30 hours each week during the six-week summer intensive - Continue skill-building and academic programming through the school year, running into April ## Who Should Apply Applicants must currently be a high school sophomore (10th grade) or junior (11th grade). Preference is given to students from the Kansas City area and to students interested in providing care to medically underserved communities. All application materials for the 2026 cohort were due February 1, 2026 at 11:59pm CST; the program runs annually, so the next window is expected the following winter. ## Outcomes Scholars finish with real clinical shadowing hours, a faculty-mentored research project, and a paid credential from an academic medical center - a rare combination for high schoolers. The free program is designed to move participants toward health professional degrees, with continued STAHR support available through college.