RSI is widely considered one of the most prestigious pre-college research programs in the country. About 100 students are selected each year out of roughly 3,000+ applicants (an acceptance rate around 2.5%), so it’s a genuine reach for almost everyone — but the program itself is completely free if you’re admitted, aside from a $75 application fee (with fee waivers available).
Students spend the first week on intensive coursework, then are paired with a real research mentor for an independent research project, ending with a paper and presentation similar to a college thesis defense.
Timing matters: applications are due in early-to-mid December — noticeably earlier than most summer programs — so this is worth planning for well before winter break.