US Naval Academy (USNA) Summer STEM: A Complete Guide

If you’re a rising 9th, 10th, or 11th grader with a passion for coding, robotics, engineering, or design, the USNA Summer STEM program might be your next big adventure. Hosted at the United States Naval Academy, one of the most prestigious institutions in the country, it gives students a rare opportunity to explore real-world science and technology in world-class facilities, all in just one unforgettable week.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the program, from session dates and eligibility to costs, and how to apply.

• What Is the USNA Summer STEM?
• USNA Summer STEM Acceptance Rate
• USNA Summer STEM Application Deadline
• USNA Summer STEM Requirements
• How to Get into the USNA Summer STEM
• Why Join the USNA Summer STEM Program?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Is USNA Summer STEM?

The US Naval Academy Summer STEM program is a week-long, residential pre-college experience designed for students entering 9th through 11th grade who have a strong interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. Held annually at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, the program gives participants hands-on exposure to STEM disciplines through faculty-led academic modules, team challenges, and lab work.

You’ll work alongside USNA Midshipmen, learn from Naval Academy faculty, and collaborate with peers from across the nation, all while experiencing life on the campus of the #1 Top Public College in the country and the #5 Best Undergraduate Engineering Program, according to the 2026 U.S. News & World Report College Rankings.

For 2026, the Summer STEM Naval Academy program runs across three separate sessions in June, each designated by grade level:

• Session 1. Rising 9th Graders
• Session 2. Rising 10th Graders
• Session 3. Rising 11th Graders

Sessions are grade-specific, meaning you may only attend the session designated for your current grade level. The Naval Academy also acknowledges that some school districts may still be in session during these dates, however, they are unable to adjust the program’s schedule due to facility availability and Midshipmen training commitments.

USNA Summer STEM Acceptance Rate

While the Naval Academy doesn’t publish an official figure, the program is estimated to accept around 23% of applicants, making it competitive but attainable for well-prepared students. Admission favors those with strong academics, meaningful extracurricular involvement, and a genuine interest in STEM.

That said, the program is designed to remain accessible to motivated students from diverse backgrounds, with financial aid available to help reduce barriers. Your best move is to submit a polished, complete application as early as possible once the cycle opens.

USNA Summer STEM Application Deadline

For the 2026 cycle, the application window has already closed. It opened on January 6, 2026 at 9:00 AM EST and closed on March 31, 2026 at 11:59 PM EDT. Applications for 2027 are expected to follow a similar timeline. Keep an eye on the official USNA Admissions website starting in late 2026 for updates on when the next cycle opens.

Notification and other key dates

The 2026 USNA Summer STEM program runs across three consecutive June sessions, each aligned with your current grade level to ensure an appropriate pace and learning experience.

• Session 1. June 1–6, 2026 (Monday–Saturday)
• Session 2. June 8–13, 2026 (Monday–Saturday)
• Session 3. June 15–19, 2026 (Monday–Friday)

Note: Session 3 includes a federal holiday (Juneteenth).

Sessions are strictly grade-specific, so you can only attend the one assigned to your cohort, helping maintain a focused and collaborative environment among peers at a similar level.

USNA Summer STEM Requirements

Before applying to the US Naval Academy Summer STEM program, it’s important to understand who qualifies, what the application involves, and what the program costs.

Eligibility

The program is open to students currently entering 9th, 10th, or 11th grade. Eligible students should demonstrate:

• Strong academic performance in core subjects, particularly in math and science
• Competitive PSAT, SAT, or ACT scores (where applicable)
• Evidence of accomplishments both inside and outside the classroom
• A genuine interest in STEM fields and future careers in science, technology, engineering, or math

Each session is grade-specific, and students may only register for the session that corresponds to their grade level.

Required documents

While the Naval Academy does not publish a strict checklist, strong applicants typically present a profile that reflects both academic strength and meaningful involvement beyond the classroom. You should aim to demonstrate:

• Notable accomplishments both inside and outside the classroom
• Active extracurricular involvement, especially with leadership or initiative
• A clear and genuine interest in STEM shown through classes, projects, or activities

Overall, your application should combine solid academics with clear evidence of curiosity, commitment, and engagement in STEM.

Program costs

The program fee for the Naval Academy Summer STEM program is $450, which covers the following:

• Transportation to and from Baltimore Washington Airport and the Naval Academy
• All meals and lodging for the duration of the session
• Midshipmen leadership and mentorship
• Faculty-led STEM academic modules in world-class labs and classrooms
• USNA Technology and Majors Fair
• USNA apparel and promotional items
• A program picnic and shaved ice social night

Financial aid is available for both the program fee and travel costs, making this experience accessible to students from all economic backgrounds.

How to Get Into USNA Summer STEM

Getting into the USNA Summer STEM program requires preparation, a strong academic profile, and a timely application. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you put your best foot forward.

Step 1: Verify that you meet the eligibility criteria.

Confirm that you will be entering 9th, 10th, or 11th grade in the upcoming school year and that you can attend the session designated for your grade level. Double-check the session dates against your school calendar as the Naval Academy is unable to accommodate scheduling conflicts.

Step 2: Gather your academic records.

Your academic history is one of the strongest indicators of your readiness for the program. Compile your most recent transcripts and any available standardized test scores (PSAT, SAT, or ACT). Highlight coursework in science, technology, engineering, or math, as well as any honors or advanced classes.

Step 3: Reflect on your STEM involvement.

Think about your activities, projects, clubs, competitions, or experiences that reflect your interest in STEM. Whether it’s a robotics club, a science fair project, a coding class, or independent tinkering, these details help the selection committee understand your passion beyond grades alone.

Step 4: Apply for financial aid (if needed).

If the $450 program fee or travel costs present a barrier, don’t let that stop you from applying. Financial aid is available for both, and applicants are encouraged to explore this option early. Aid is limited, so applying as soon as the cycle opens gives you the best chance of receiving support.

Step 5: Submit your application early.

The application window opens in early January and closes at the end of March. Don’t wait until the deadline. Submitting early demonstrates initiative, a quality the Naval Academy values, and ensures you’re considered before any space limitations come into play.

Why Join the Naval Academy Summer STEM Program?

The Naval Academy Summer STEM program offers a one-of-a-kind combination of academic rigor, hands-on learning, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s why students keep coming back, and why alumni credit it as a turning point in their STEM journey.

1. Learn in world-class facilities.

The Naval Academy is home to some of the most advanced academic labs and classrooms in the country. As a Summer STEM participant, you’ll work in these facilities alongside faculty instead of just observing. From hydro labs with working wind tunnels to electrical engineering labs, the environment is unlike anything most high schoolers encounter.

2. Experience hands-on STEM challenges.

Forget passive lectures. The academic modules in this program are built around the kinds of problems actual engineers tackle. Past activities have included:

• Reverse Engineering like disassembling and reassembling a lawn mower engine
• Searching for Unobtanium, a materials characterization in the USNA EE labs
• Storm Chasing, designing a structure to withstand 150 mph winds in a wind tunnel
• Programming Challenges, writing code to solve real-world problems

3. Work alongside USNA midshipmen.

Few high school programs offer the chance to interact closely with college students who are training to become officers in the United States Navy and Marine Corps. Midshipmen serve as mentors and leaders throughout the week, giving participants a look at what Naval Academy life looks like up close.

4. Build friendships that last.

You’ll spend the week living, learning, and competing alongside students from across the country who share your interests. From intramural sports to movie nights to the evening picnic and shaved ice social, the program is designed to foster real connections, the kind that tend to last well beyond June.

5. Attend one of the top-ranked universities in the nation.

Spending a week on the grounds of the #1 Top Public College and a Top 5 Best Undergraduate Engineering Program in America is an experience in itself. The USNA campus in Annapolis, Maryland is historic, breathtaking, and deeply motivating, a perfect backdrop for a week dedicated to your future in STEM.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is the USNA Summer STEM program held?

The program takes place at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Transportation to and from Baltimore Washington International Airport is included in the program fee.

2. Can students choose which session to attend?

No. Students may only attend their grade’s designated session. Rising 9th graders attend Session 1, rising 10th graders attend Session 2, and rising 11th graders attend Session 3.

3. Is financial aid available?

Yes. Financial aid is available for both the $450 program fee and travel expenses. Students in need of assistance are encouraged to apply early, as aid is limited.

4. What if my school is still in session during the program dates?

The Naval Academy is aware that some school districts overlap with the program schedule but is unable to adjust session dates due to facility and Midshipmen training constraints. Families should plan accordingly.

5. Are there similar programs if I miss the deadline?

Yes. The Society of American Military Engineers (SAME), in collaboration with military services, offers week-long STEM Engineering and Construction Camps for high school students. These can serve as a strong alternative or complement to the USNA program.

Takeaways

• The USNA Summer STEM program is a week-long, residential experience at the United States Naval Academy for students entering 9th–11th grade.
• The 2026 program runs in June across three grade-specific sessions, with costs starting at $450 and financial aid available. The 2027 session is expected to follow a similar timeline.
• The program features hands-on STEM modules, Midshipmen mentorship, faculty instruction, and a full slate of social activities.
• Strong academics, STEM involvement, and early applications give candidates the best shot at being selected.
• If you’re aiming to stand out in a competitive pool, consider getting expert guidance on your application. Our Private Consulting Program can help you sharpen your narrative, highlight your strengths, and position you as a strong candidate for USNA Summer STEM.