Application Process

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The ASPIRE internship application cannot be saved and must be completed in a single session. We recommend drafting your essays and answers in a word processor program, such as Google Docs, so that you may review them prior to submission.

Before You Apply

Please preview the application to avoid any surprises. Please note: there may be small changes or inconsistencies between the sample application and the actual application.

Download the ASPIRE High School Internship Program School Acknowledgment Form and have it signed by your counselor, internship coordinator, or principal. You will attach this form to your application. Incomplete or unsigned forms will result in disqualification. We do not accept any forms submitted via email.

Prepare a brief, 1-2 page résumé that details your academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, and especially any STEM experiences you have had. If you aren’t sure how to write a résumé, we suggest checking out this link and using a template

When completing your application, you will be asked to write 250 words or less on two topics: (1) explain why you chose your area(s) of interest and/or why you chose APL, and (2) tell us about a project you are proud of. These essays are your chance to share your personality and why you would make a great ASPIRE student.

Each application requires a recommendation form a teacher of your choice. The recommender cannot be related to you. The recommendation form will be sent to your recommender after you submit. Only one recommendation is required, but multiple will not hurt your application.

Applying

Complete and submit the online application. Make sure that all application materials, including the school acknowledgement form, are complete and signed. Incomplete applications will not be considered for the program.  

After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation e-mail. You will receive additional emails when your recommender fills out the recommendation form, and when we have confirmed your eligibility.  Please do not call to see whether we have received your recommendation form.

Accepted students will be asked to download and sign the ASPIRE Student Contract Form.

Applications will be reviewed, interviews will be conducted, and students will be accepted according to the session timeline for which they applied. All students, regardless of acceptance, will be notified of their status after the selection period has ended. Due to the large number of applications, please do not call or email to check the status of your application or recommendations.