Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility
Can I apply to the summer program if I graduate in May 2025?
What if my school does not grade on the GPA scale?
I am studying in a two-year college. Am I eligible?
Can I apply to the summer program if I am a BU student?
Can I apply if I am not a US citizen or Permanent Resident (green card holder) of the US?
Can I apply if I am a citizen from a foreign country studying in the US with a visa?
What if my GPA is less than a 3.0 (in a 4.0 scale)?
Application
Who should I have write a letter of recommendation?
How should my recommenders write their emails and format recommendation letter files?
How do I verify my application is complete?
How are applicants selected for the program?
What is the turnaround time for application review and scholar selection?
How many students apply and are admitted to the STaRS program?
When will I find out if I have been accepted?
What dates will the program run?
What if my undergraduate institution operates on the quarter system?
Accepted Participants
How long does the STaRS program run?
What does the scholarship cover, and what do I have to pay from the stipend?
How do I book my travel? Do I start looking for flights?
How do I get a refund if I travel by car or bus?
Should I bring a car?
What type of housing is offered for participants?
Do the apartments have air conditioning (AC)?
Do I have access to a kitchen?
Will I have a meal plan during the summer?
Can I choose the Scholar I want to be paired with in the apartment?
What do I do if I need accommodations?
Are service animals and emotional support animals allowed?
How do I know who my faculty mentor will be?
Does the STaRS Program offer clinical shadowing opportunities with physicians?
Can I take classes, have a job, or volunteer while participating in the STaRS program?
What are the STaRS and GMS summer research symposia?