Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Is this a commuter or residential program?

    Most students live on campus, but students can commute as part of the Research Internship in Science & Engineering Program.

  2. Can international students participate?

    The RISE program is not open to international students.

  3. What year do I need to be entering in 2012 to participate in RISE?

    You need to be entering your senior year in fall 2012.

  4. Where can I get an application for the Research Internship in Science & Engineering Program?

    Applications are available on the How to Apply page.

  5. How many students attend the Research Internship in Science & Engineering Program?

    50 students attended the RISE Program in 2011. Students live and participate in social activities with the High School Honors students which when combined total over 130 students.

  6. How competitive is the RISE Program? About how many students are accepted?

    The Research Internship in Science & Engineering Program is highly competitive. We received over 250 applications for 50 placements in 2011.

  7. Do you have a specific format for the teacher and guidance counselor recommendation letters?

    Yes, we do. You can find the Teacher and Counselor Recommendation Forms on our website.

  8. What if I have not yet taken the PSAT, SAT, ACT or PLAN?

    A PSAT, SAT, ACT, or PLAN standardized test score is required for admission. If something has prevented a rising senior from taking one of the tests, please indicate why in your application materials.

  9. Can I check and see if my application is complete?

    Yes, we encourage you to ensure that all your materials have arrived at our office. Please call our office at 617-353-1378 or email us at rise@bu.edu to check on your application status.

  10. How long after I send in my application should I expect a response?

    Decisions usually take 4-8 weeks from receipt of a completed application. The application deadline is April 2, 2012.

  11. Once accepted into RISE, am I required to go to the program? Is acceptance binding?

    Acceptance is not binding. You can either accept or decline our offer of admission, but we ask that you inform us of your decision as soon as possible after you receive an acceptance packet.

  12. What is the cost of the Research Internship in Science & Engineering Program?

    Please see the Tuition, Fees, and Payment page for a detailed description of the cost of attending the RISE Program.

  13. Is there financial aid available?

    Yes, there is financial aid available. We base awards on a combination of need and academic merit. View our Tuition, Fees, and Payment page to learn how to apply for financial aid.

  14. What are some past projects that research interns have worked on?

    View some examples of past projects.

  15. Will I know my research project before I accept my placement in the RISE Program?

    You will learn about your mentor, lab, and his/her research before you accept your spot, but not your project. You will learn about your project once you begin in the lab.

  16. Do you take students to visit other colleges?

    No, we do not travel as a group to visit area colleges, but you may arrange your own visits within the Boston area during your free time. We do offer a college workshop offered with our Office of Admission and a pre-professional medical science workshop with our Pre-Professional Advising office.

  17. Is there a curfew?

    Yes. The curfew is 11 pm during the week (Sunday through Thursday) and midnight on weekends (Friday and Saturday).

  18. Are students free to leave campus?

    All planned activities are mandatory. However, during free time students can leave campus as long as they have at least one other RISE or High School Honors student with them and they let their Program Assistant know they are leaving.

  19. What is the schedule of activities for the RISE program?

    You can see a sample schedule of activities on the Schedule of Events page.

  20. Is there any fee for visiting the Student Health Services Center?

    Yes, there is a $25 co-pay fee each time a student visits the Student Health Services Center.

  21. Who can I contact at Boston University if I have more questions?

    We are happy to help you. You can find all of our information on the Contact Us page.