Q: What classes should a student have already completed to be adequately prepared for RIPS?
A: It would be good to have taken some upper-division math classes and have some background in computer programming. The backgrounds of successful applicants vary quite a bit. You are encouraged to apply - we won't let you in unless we feel that you have the right courses to do well in the program. We will use the courses you have taken to decide which project is right for you - since students work in teams, if you haven't had a course on something that's needed, chances are one of the other students will.
Q: I am a graduating senior, am I still eligible to participate in the RIPS program?
A: Yes, we will accept applicants who are graduating between December and June of the current academic year.
Q: I am not a US citizen, am I eligible to participate?
A: Yes, your application will be considered.
Q: I am a foreign student studying in the United States, am I eligible to participate?
A: Yes, your application will be considered.
Q: I am currently a foreign student in the United States on a F1 visa at another institute. Am I eligible to participate in the RIPS program without changing my visa?
A: Yes, as long as you are a full time student at your current institute and plan on returning to that insitute full time after the RIPS summer program ends.
Q: I am attending school in a foreign country, can I participate?
A: Yes, your application will be considered.
Q: How should I tell my references to submit their letters?
A: We can accept references in a number of ways but the
preferable method is to have the referees send their letters in the body of an
email or as an email attachment (pdf or Word format). For confidentiality have
them send the emails directly to Janice Amar, the Chief Administrative Officer
at IPAM (). She will put them
directly in your file.
Q: Do participants earn a salary?
A: Yes, selected participants receive a weekly stipend made in two payments. The first payment is approximately 20 days after arrival and the second payment is shortly before the end of the program.
Q: Is it necessary to submit transcripts with my application?
A: Transcripts are not necessary but if you wish to submit them, they will be included in your application file.