Selective
Wisconsin Center for Academically Talented Youth: Summer Transitional Enrichment Program (STEP)
Overview
An intensive one-week residential summer program for middle school students (grades 6–8) featuring 50 hours of accelerated coursework emphasizing critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving through project-based learning.
At a glance
Deadline
May 1171 days
Sessions
Jun1–2 wk sessions
Formats
Residential
Location
Madison, WI
Cost
$1,500–$2,999from $1,500
Entering grades
6th, 7th, 8th
Acceptance
Competitive; rolling admissions with courses filled first-come, first-served.
Application requirements
Current transcript
Grade report from first semester of current year or last semester of previous year
Application essay
Short response questions assessing interest in specific course and accomplishments
Application fee
$75 non-refundable (waivable upon request)
Full participation
Academic classes and residential overnight experience in dormitories required
Cost & sessions
$1,500 per session; $1,450 per session if attending both sessions. Full and partial scholarships available for qualifying students based on financial need; full scholarships available to Wisconsin residents with free/reduced lunch status only. Application fee of $75 (waivable upon request).
Financial aid
Full and partial scholarships available on rolling basis with limited funds. Full scholarships for Wisconsin residents meeting free/reduced lunch criteria; partial scholarships (up to 50% tuition) available to all qualifying students based on financial need with income verification. Scholarship application deadline April 1, 2026. No aid for international students.
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