Tufts STEM+M CONNECT
Tufts University School of Medicine
A one-month paid summer program for first-generation and low-income Boston-area students combining a two-week residential Pre-College experience (Mini-Med School or Lab Science Investigations) with multi-tiered mentoring.
Who should apply
First-generation or low-income Boston-area sophomores and juniors with an emerging interest in medicine or biomedical science who want an immersive, mentored, fully funded summer experience.
Eligibility
Current sophomores/juniors (graduating 2027–2028), 16 by program start, MA residents able to commute to the Tufts Boston Health Sciences Campus, with one biology course done. Designed for first-gen or low-income students.
What you get
- Full scholarship to a two-week residential Mini-Med School or Lab Science Investigations program (housing and meals)
- Multi-strand mentoring (bonding, professional skills, STEM role models, one-on-one)
- Hands-on labs, simulation-center patient cases, and a capstone project
- $2,175 stipend upon completion of the four-week program, plus travel reimbursement
What the application involves
- Current sophomore or junior (graduating 2027–2028)
- Age 16 by July 6, 2026
- Massachusetts resident able to commute to the Boston Health Sciences Campus
- At least one completed biology course
- Two recommendations and attendance at a mandatory information session
Application tips
- Attend a January information session, it's required.
- Emphasize first-generation or low-income status and a genuine interest in medicine/biomedical science.
Good to know
Formerly Mini-Med Connect; launched in 2021 with an NIH SEPA award.
Not eligible for this one? These are open anywhere in the U.S.
Being in the wrong state rules out a lot of programs and almost none of the good ones. Here are three you can apply to from anywhere, soonest deadline first.
Due February 5 · ~6 months
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Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP)
Summer Health Professions Education Program
A free summer program to explore medicine, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, public health, and more across 12 partner institutions, building applicant competencies, clinical exposure, and professional networks.
Who can apply: Anywhere in the U.S.
Due in February · ~7 months
Summer programs
MIT Minority Introduction to Engineering and Sciences (MITES)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Five rigorous math, science, and humanities courses paired with lab tours, social events, and college admissions counseling, firsthand insight into the value of STEM degrees and careers.
Who can apply: Anywhere in the U.S. · grade 11
