The application for summer 2026 will open in fall/winter 2025

Applications Due

February 2, 2026

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Must be enrolled in a DMV high school

  • Must be a rising junior or senior

  • Must be a US citizen or permanent resident

Application Components:

  1. Completed application (click the below “Apply Here” button). Incomplete applications will not be considered.

  2. Submit the following documents in the application as a PDF, .doc, or .docx:

    1. 1-2 page personal statement which answers the question “Why do you want to participate in the METEOR v 3 program?”

    2. 1-2 page writing sample of your choice:

      • An Example from School - You may submit a recent piece of writing you have submitted for a grade in school.

      • Story from Your Life Essay - You may submit a 2-page document in which you tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it.

      • Other Essay - You may submit a document in which you write about a topic of your choice.

  3. Most recent official transcript

  4. Two recommendation letters: one from your science teacher and one from a guidance counselor/another teacher

    • Both letters must be submitted via the “Submit Teacher Recommendation Here” button below as a PDF, .doc, or .docx. We recommend you send your teacher the link below.

    • They may also send the recommendation letters directly to Rachel Smilow, Program Manager at rsmilow@childrensnational.org.

Next Steps:

  • A committee with review each application

  • Interview Day will be held in March by invitation only

  • Selections will be made in April

  • Program runs from June 22nd- August 7th