General Questions
- What internet requirements are necessary for participating in my program?
Participants should have a reliable broadband internet connection that is robust enough to handle video conferencing with minimal difficulties. Our program utilizes a video conferencing platform to create an interactive environment for students which includes having all students on camera, chat, videos, and presentations, all of which together create a high demand on each student's internet connection. The experience of the student and capabilities to participate in the online classroom are dependent on a reliable internet connection from where the student joins the web conferencing platform. If available, we highly recommend that participants use a wired Ethernet connection instead of a wireless connection, which can be less stable.
- What can I expect after completing my registration for enrollment?
As the start of the program approaches, the Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies team will be sending more detailed information via email. Be sure to check that emails from precollegiate@stanford.edu do not get caught in your spam/junk folder.
- How do I request accessibility information and/or accommodations?
Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies is committed to ensuring its facilities, programs and services are accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. If you need accommodations and/or accessibility information, please complete this form. We ask that requests are made by Friday, June 7.
- How do I request technical equipment?
To request technical equipment for your student, please indicate what equipment is needed via the Enrollment Agreement (we can not accommodate late requests). Requests should be made by a parent/legal guardian and should only be filled out if the student does not have access to required technical equipment (computer, headphones, microphone, and/or webcam).
- Will attending Stanford Middle School Scholars Program improve the chances of getting into Stanford Online High School?
Stanford Online High School’s (Stanford OHS) admissions process is separate and independent from Stanford Middle School Scholars Program. Participants will have the opportunity to work with Stanford OHS' Office of Admissions in the fall, to learn more about the application process for Stanford OHS. The Admissions team will also provide tips that will be helpful in applying to Stanford OHS or any other private/independent school. Participation in the Stanford Middle School Scholars Program does not guarantee admission into Stanford OHS.
Enrollment Questions
- Can I have an extension on the enrollment or payment deadlines?
Unfortunately, we are not able to offer extensions to the enrollment. Please reference the deadline indicated in your admissions offer letter.
- Can I attend the summer program if I am unable to attend the Fall Semester meetings?
No. Middle School Scholars will need to attend both the summer and Fall components of the program.
- If I recently found out I cannot attend, can my decision be deferred to next year?
Unfortunately, we cannot defer a student’s acceptance to a different year. However, we hope to see your application next year if you still meet our grade level requirements. Please sign up for our mailing list to receive notifications of our applications opening.
Academic Course Questions
- What is the attendance policy for the live course meetings?
Participants are expected to attend and participate in the daily live course meetings. Read more about our attendance policy here.
- Can I have a course syllabus?
Since our courses are not for credit or grades, curriculum may vary year after year, and therefore standard syllabi are not available. Participants are not required to do any reading or fulfill course assignments prior to the start of the program. Participants will receive a syllabus or course overview from their instructor when the course begins. This flexibility allows our program instructors to create the most dynamic and up-to-date lesson plan.
- Will I need to complete any work before the start of the program?
Participants will not be asked to complete any coursework prior to the start of the session. All we ask is that participants ensure that they have the necessary technology ready to go by the first day of the program.
- Can I be admitted to a different course?
No. Unfortunately, switching courses is not an option. Applicants are reviewed on a course-by-course basis, and due to limited space in the program, we are not able to move students to a different course after they have been offered admission.