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Application for 2026 Now Open
Application Closes February 15, 2026
QUALIFICATIONS & ELIGIBILITY
The program is open to all rising seniors attending high school in the state of Michigan.
There will be at least six high school interns in the 2026 cohort.
An excellent academic record and participation in a wide range of extracurricular activities are highly regarded but are not the sole criteria for the selection process.
If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian will also be contacted to acknowledge that they are aware that you applied to the program and that they approve of your participation if you are selected.
All applicants must be:
A rising senior in high school (i.e., students apply their junior year)
Enrolled in and attending a high school in the state of Michigan (MI)
A US citizen, permanent resident, or non-US citizen with employment authorization documentation (EAD)
Willing and able to reside on campus for the duration of Aspirnaut (June 14 through July 24, 2026)
APPLICATION
To apply:
Fill out the LSI Aspirnaut application form on Interfolio (linked below)
Upload academic transcripts: Upload a current copy of your high school transcript(s) from ninth grade to present via the online system.
Note: Transcript files should be named with the following structure: "Last Name, First Name - 'Name of School' Transcript" (ex. Jane Smith = Smith, Jane - Kearsley High School Transcript)
Provide two letters of recommendation: To complete your application, you must provide the names and email addresses of two recommenders who have agreed to write letters of recommendation on your behalf.
How to Submit: Email AspirnautUM@umich.edu with the names and email addresses of your two recommenders as soon as possible.
What to Expect: Program staff will email each recommender a digital form for submitting their letter directly to us.
Timing: Recommendations must be received no later than February 15, 2026.
Please give your recommenders at least two weeks to complete this requirement.
Need the recommendation form early?
Recommenders may request the link before your application is submitted by contacting AspirnautUM@umich.edu.
Note: Your application will not be considered complete until both recommenders have submitted their digital forms.
Funding may be subject to federal and/or state income taxes. It is the sole responsibility of the individual hired as an Aspirnaut intern to investigate the impact, if any, of their pay on student financial aid, personal income tax or any similar situation.
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