Students currently in grades 9–10 may apply for the Perry Research Scholars Institute (PRSI). In this program, you will meet researchers across many different fields, such as anthropology, business, education, engineering, medicine, psychology, sustainability, and more. You and your classmates will hear from researchers about how they came to do the work that they do and to read and discuss some of the research they have published. You will have the opportunity to tour state-of-the-art research facilities.
About the Program
PRSI will take place July 9-21. Accepted students commit to full participation for the duration of the program.
Application Timeline:
- February 21, 2023: Application opens
- March 24, 2023 (11:59 pm CST): Application closes
- April 1, 2023 (5:00 pm CST): Students receive notification of acceptance status
- July 9, 2023: Program begins
- July 21, 2023: Program ends
PRSI will be held on the University of Iowa campus for 2023.
PRSI is an introductory-level, research-preparatory program that grants you behind-the-scenes access to the ways and places we discover new knowledge on many different topics. Please note that you will not be conducting research projects in this program. If you are interested in conducting research projects, consider applying to the Secondary Student Training Program in grades 10 or 11. PRSI is a great way to prepare for that program!
I am very grateful for this amazing opportunity, I had an excellent experience and owe it to the generosity of the Perry family.
How to Apply
While the application process is straightforward, planning ahead is essential. Here's all the information you'll need in order to submit your application.
Application Process
Here's how to apply:
- Enter your demographic information.
- Provide e-mail addresses for two adults, not related to you, who are willing to complete an online letter of reference before the application deadline. One reference should speak to your academic abilities (e.g., teacher) and the other should tell us about your character (e.g., teacher, mentor, group leader).
- Write an essay (250–500 words) describing your interest in attending PRSI. Why would you like to attend? What do you hope to gain from the experience? What academic or career goals do you have that PRSI might help you accomplish?
- Upload your transcript.
Selection
Faculty and staff from the University of Iowa will evaluate completed applications based on the following criteria:
- Quality and content of essays and grades
- Letters of recommendation
Ready to Apply?
Applications for this program have closed. However, you may still log in if you have already applied.
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After You're Accepted
You can look forward to a fun and enriching summer! Here you can find answers to all the pressing questions you may have while making your plans to join us.
Cost & Financial Aid
The tuition for PRSI is $2,700. Each student selected for PRSI will receive a Perry Scholarship which covers $1,500 of the Institute's costs. The remaining program fee is $1200.
Payment Deadlines
You must either pay in full or have arranged monthly installments by June 1 in order to participate in the Perry Research Scholars Institute. All fees are payable to the Belin-Blank Center.
Payment Options
- Pay the entire amount on a credit card.
- Pay in three equal installments using a credit card.
Financial Aid
You may be awarded financial aid for up to half the cost of the program. Financial aid is awarded on a first-come-first-served basis, while funds are available. Eligibility is typically determined by qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch. After your information is reviewed, a decision will be made, and you will receive an email regarding the amount of your award. Awards will be applied directly to your program fees. Additional scholarships may be available. International students are not eligible for scholarships or financial aid for PRSI.
Daily Schedule
You will be working with your class from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday.
Cancellation Policy
If you must cancel, email summer@belinblank.org as soon as possible to decline your acceptance so a student on the waiting list may attend. Your non-refundable down payment will be retained for all cancellations. Cancellations after June 1 may not be refunded.
