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School of Medicine Summer Scholars Program

Saint Louis University's School of Medicine Summer Scholars Program is designed to further expose interested youth to medicine and health care. The SLU School of Medicine has hosted the Summer Scholars Program since its beginning in 2010.

High school students wearing latex gloves stand around a lab table.
 

About the Program

During the four-week program, students meet with a variety of health care professionals. Some of the specialties may include family medicine, orthopedics, emergency medicine, surgery, pediatrics, transplant surgery, internal general medicine, pathology, dietetics and nursing. 

The program is coordinated with the assistance of first-year medical students. In addition to career exploration, students:

  • Participate in a cadaver demonstration
  • Take a tour of Saint Louis University’s campus and the St. Louis area
  • Complete a research project
  • Participate in a community service project
  • Receive several hours of ACT preparation
  • Stop the Bleed Certification

How to Apply for the Summer Scholars Program

Registration for the 2026 program is will open Jan. 15, 2026 and close on March 15, 2026. Requirements for the program are listed below. 

Applicants will be notified by phone and/or email of their program status in early April. Payment will be accepted online after you have been notified of your acceptance into the Summer Scholars Program.

To request additional information, please contact the Office of Ignatian Mission in Medicine at somodei@health.slu.edu. Potential applicants must apply by the deadline.

Who can participate?
The School of Medicine Summer Scholars Program is open to any student entering grades 10-12 who is interested in pursuing a career in medicine or health care. This program encourages high school students from varied backgrounds and experiences to pursue health-related careers.
When does the program take place?

June 1-26, 2026

Monday-Friday, 8 am - 12 pm

Transportation is not provided by the program

Where is the program?

The Summer Scholars Program will take place in person. The majority of the program will be held on the Saint Louis University School of Medicine Campus in the Learning Resource Center. 

How much does the program cost?

The program is provided to eligible applicants at a cost of $500. Program costs include ACT prep and all program activities. Needs-based financial aid may be available for some students. Please inquire by contacting Valerie Lovelock at valerie.lovelock@health.slu.edu.

What are the eligibility requirements?

To be eligible, students must:

  • Be interested in pursuing a career in medicine or health care 
  • Have a minimum GPA of 2.5
  • Complete the online application. 
  • Submit an essay explaining their personal interest in the medical profession (300-400 words, double-spaced)
  • Submit a letter of recommendation from a counselor, science or math teacher
  • Be able to attend all four weeks of the program
  • Attend the orientation with a parent/legal guardian
What is the deadline to apply?

March 15, 2026