Applying to ASDRP

Every year, ASDRP reviews thousands of applications from highly-qualified high school students from around the Bay Area, California, and even from other states. Applications are opened three times a year for student researchers in the summer, fall, and spring. Because ASDRP receives far more applicants than there are positions available, applications are competitive and late applications will not be considered. Please see the schedule below for application deadlines. Questions about an application status should be directed to admissions@asdrp.org. Applications for research positions for the Spring of 2021 are due on January 15, 2021 at 11:59 PM PST. Early applications for the Summer of 2021 are due on February 1, 2021 at 11:59 PM PST. 

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What is the acceptance rate for ASDRP?

While acceptance rates may vary slightly from term to term, ASDRP only admits as many applicants are there are open research positions, which open up only when researchers graduate or leave ASDRP. Since most researchers stay in ASDRP year-round, and for multiple years, the number of admitted researchers each term is very limited. Every year, ASDRP receives several times more applicants as there are research positions available. 

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If I am currently doing research at ASDRP, do I need to re-apply?

In some cases, yes. Researchers who leave ASDRP for a term will need to re-apply to come back to ASDRP. Continuing researchers do not need to re-apply to continue research each term. Most researchers at ASDRP stay here year-round, and for multiple years - some move around between research groups to explore different fields, and others stay in one research group for their entire time at ASDRP.

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Do I need prior research experience to apply for ASDRP?

No. While prior research experience is always a plus, ASDRP does not require prerequisite research experience - only an appetite to learn.

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Do I need to be a resident of the Bay Area to apply for ASDRP?

No. ASDRP receives dozens of applications each year from individuals around California, the United States, and Europe/North America. Individuals who are from outside of the Bay Area may work remotely.

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Who is eligible to apply for ASDRP?

All high school students currently enrolled in or entering 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grade may apply for ASDRP. 

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Undergraduates who are interested in doing research at ASDRP should email a resume to the appropriate Department Chair.

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What are the criteria for admissions to ASDRP?

ASDRP values diversity, rigor, and passion in its student researchers, and we firmly believe in accessibility to opportunities in STEM for all. Therefore, test scores, grade point averages, and involvement in academic competitions are not defining criteria for admissions. We encourage all high schoolers interested in doing something meaningful with their time in the summer or after hours during the school year to apply.

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What do I do if my application is rejected?

Unfortunately, given the large volume of applications that ASDRP receives on a daily basis and the limited number of openings across research groups at ASDRP, a significant number of applicants are not offered admissions in any given cycle. If you are not admitted to ASDRP, we welcome you to apply again in the next admissions cycle. 

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Questions? Email us at admissions@asdrp.org