The rockefeller university

Is there a minimum age or grade level to attend?

You must be 16 years old before the beginning of the program (Thursday, February 26, 2026) in order to attend. There are no exceptions to this rule. Students must also be currently enrolled in a NYC high school as a junior or a senior. Current high school sophomores are NOT eligible to apply.

How do I apply to Jumpstart?

Prospective Jumpstart students should complete the online application. Applications are due on Monday, January 4, 2027 at 5:00pm Eastern Time.  Letters of recommendation must also be submitted by 5:00pm Eastern Time on Monday, January 4, 2027.

Does Jumpstart require a nomination?

No! We are no longer requiring nominations.

Do I have to interview to be accepted into Jumpstart?

Yes. After review, a portion of selected applicants will be invited to a virtual interview in February with the RockEDU team. 

Is there a waitlist?

Yes, we will keep a short waitlist. Should space open up, we will notify the waitlisted students as soon as possible. Waitlisted students will be notified of any openings by the end of February for that application cycle.

Is there an application fee?

No, there are no costs to apply.

When does the program begin/end?

Phase one of Jumpstart 2027 begins on Thursday, February 25, 2027 and ends on Thursday, June 10, 2027 (excluding NYC DOE Spring Recess Week and other holidays). Phase two of Jumpstart (summer / SSRP) begins on Monday, June 21, 2027 and ends on Thursday, August 5, 2026 (excluding the July 4 holiday). Students must commit to full participation in both phases of the program. 

How much time can I expect to put in per day/week?

Students are expected to attend all spring after-school sessions (phase one) from 4:30pm to 7:00pm, which take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting February 25, 2027. Jumpstart convenes for a total of 5 hours per week until Thursday, June 10, 2027. This is followed by participation in the SSRP (phase two) which runs Monday-Friday, beginning Monday, June 21, 2027 through Thursday, August 5, 2027.

Is transportation financial assistance available?

Because students from NYC Schools now receive a more flexible OMNY card, we no longer offer transit funds to Jumpstart students. 

Are stipends available?

Yes, Jumpstart students will receive a $500 stipend for the spring portion (phase one) and another $3250 for the summer portion (phase two / SSRP).

Can I apply to the program if I live and/or attend school outside of New York City?

No. Jumpstart is specific to students who live and attend school in New York City.

When will I find out whether or not I’ve been accepted to Jumpstart?

Decisions for Jumpstart will be made before the end of February. Notifications will be communicated through email.

If I am accepted into Jumpstart, am I eligible to participate in the Summer Science Research Program (SSRP)?

Yes. The Jumpstart program takes place across two phases, spanning March- August. In the first phase students will work after school as Jumpstart scholars and in the second phase students will work full-time on campus as SSRP scholars.

Are there any minimum GPA or curriculum requirements?

No. We seek students who have a strong interest in science and may lack the resources or opportunities to fully explore those interests. 

Can I submit my Jumpstart research findings/poster/research report to a science research competition?

The Rockefeller University and RockEDU do not permit the use of Jumpstart research findings for the purposes of participation in science fairs. Students who are looking to participate in competitions of this nature should not apply to Jumpstart. Any scientific work you complete is the property of The Rockefeller University and may not be used outside of official university dissemination mechanisms.