MIT THINK Scholars Program

the PREMISE

Rather than requiring students to have completed a research project before applying, THINK caters to students who have done extensive research on the background of a potential research project and are looking for additional guidance in the early stages of their project. The program is organized by a group of undergraduates at MIT.

GUIDELINES

THINK project proposals are science, technology, and engineering ideas that span many fields, from green technologies and practical devices to software applications. As long as it can be completed in one semester with a $1,000 budget, almost anything is fair game! A good proposal has an insightful idea, clearly defined goals, and a well thought-out procedure for implementation.

TIMELINE

• November 1, 2025: Applications to the MIT THINK Scholars Program open online at think.mit.edu. High school students generate exciting STEM research ideas to submit to the competition.
• January 1, 2026: Applications are due. Students finish submitting project proposals to be evaluated by the MIT THINK committee and professors.
• January 31, 2026: Finalists are announced and notified of mentorship from MIT professors and researchers in their field and project funding!
• February 2026: Finalists get guidance on projects, engage in thought-provoking conversations with mentoring professors, and receive a box of THINK swag in their mailbox.
• June 2026: Finalists complete their projects. Upon completion of their projects, finalists present their final results to the THINK team, their fellow finalists, and other MIT students. If possible, finalists will visit MIT in an all-expenses paid trip, tour the campus, and get to know the THINK team in person.