Admissions Process

The TRIP application includes both an online form and a set of supporting documents. Here's what you'll need to prepare:

Online Application

In the online application form, you'll be asked to:

• Share basic information about your personal, academic, and employment background
• Add two references who can speak to your academic ability, professional qualifications, and potential for research. Once you submit their contact information, they’ll receive an email with instructions on how to complete the recommender form and upload their letter of recommendation (see guidance below).
• Briefly describe your major scientific interests and indicate any areas of research you would like to investigate during the program

Supplemental Materials

Please upload the following documents. Be sure to include your full name in the headers. 

• CV/Resume highlighting your academic background, work experience, extracurricular activities, and any research or healthcare exposure
• Unofficial copy of transcript showing your academic progress
• Personal Statement - see guidance below for tips on how to structure your statement

Personal Statement Guidance

We want to learn more about you and your motivation for applying to TRIP. Your personal statement should be no more than 500 words and address the following:

1. Why are you interested in TRIP? What do you hope to study during the program? If you have a specific mentor in mind, feel free to mention them.
2. What are your long-term goals, and how does TRIP fit into your academic or career path?
3. How have your coursework, research experiences, or other activities prepared you for this opportunity?
4. Share your personal journey—what formative experiences or challenges have shaped your interest in biomedical sciences?

Letters of Recommendation Guidance

You'll need two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with your academic capabilities and potential for work in a biomedical setting. Please:

• Communicate with your letter writers in advance so they know to expect the request
• Submit their contact information early in the application process—recommendation requests can be sent while your application is still in progress
• Ensure references are submitted by the application deadline

Note: Recommenders can choose to upload a PDF recommendation letter or type their comments directly in the text box in the recommender form. They should respond to the following questions:

• What are the applicant's strengths and areas for improvement?
• Which attributes do you observe in the applicant?
• Where possible, share brief examples demonstrating these attributes.
• Is there any additional information you'd like to share?

1. Create an account in the application system(opens in a new window)
2. Select 'Start New Application'
3. On the 'Program Information' tab:
   1. Under "Degree", select "Non-degree".
   2. Under "Program", select "ITMAT Translational Research Immersion Program, non-degree". 
   3. Under "Term", select "Summer 2026"
4. You can enter information in stages, at your own pace, and access the application any number of times until submission. 
5. Once the application has been fully submitted, check the status and note the receipt of recommendation letters.

The application will close February 1, 2026. Applications will be evaluated by ITMAT Ed Leadership in consultation with the relevant undergraduate institution. Applicants will be notified by early March regarding the selection committee's decision. We anticipate 1-2 students per institution for Summer 2026.