PREP Program (2025)

Pre-Freshman Program in Engineering & Science

Applications will be available here!

Thank you for your interest in the Summer Pre-Freshman Program in Engineering and Science (PREP) at Chicago State University. 

The PREP Program is designed to make students aware, at an early age, of the professional opportunities in engineering and to convince students to take more mathematics and science as part of their high school course load. The six-week summer program will consist of
educational, motivational, and recreational activities explicitly designed to stimulate interest in math/science, ensuring success in an engineering curriculum. The goal of the PREP Program is to increase awareness of career opportunities in engineering to facilitate the selection of an engineering major in college. The program is beneficial to students because it provides critical insight into the engineering profession, the demand of an engineering curriculum, and what is expected of them academically and socially in college.

Please note that the PREP Program may operate virtually if a shelter in place is mandated.

Students entering grades 10th, 11th or 12th in September 2024 can apply. Students who are selected for the
PREP Program will participate in:

• Science, Math, and English/communication courses
• Hands-on engineering projects
• Field trips to science and engineering corporations

We are now accepting applications for the summer program. The requirements are as follows:

• Students must have demonstrated proficiency in math/science by submitting a copy of their 2023/2024
  school report card or official high school transcript.
• Students must provide an unofficial copy of the most recent standardized test scores. Please photocopy original documents and submit the copied documents with your application package. We will not photocopy or return documents. All materials become the property of Chicago State University.
• Students must submit two letters of recommendation from their science instructor, math instructor, or school counselor.
• Interview with summer program staff/faculty member.
• Students must be from an ethnic group historically underrepresented in engineering. The final deadline for submitting all application information is Friday, May 31, 2024. Be sure to complete the entire application and return the letters of recommendation. Please note math and or science instructor must complete each written recommendation letter. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.