Participant Eligibility and Application

Application

The CU Pre-Health Scholars (CUPS) Program is open to all Colorado students in grades 6–12 who are interested in exploring careers in healthcare, biomedical research, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Our program is especially valuable to first-generation students.

2026 Application Timeline

Application Opens: August 1, 2026
Application Closes: August 17, 2026

Due to the exceptional retention of our current scholars, many students are continuing in the CUPS Program from year to year. As a result, we are currently recruiting new students in grades 6 and 7 for the 2027–2028 program year. At this time, there are no openings for new high school students (grades 9–12). We are grateful for the continued interest in CUPS and encourage interested students and families to check our website for future opportunities."

Students selected to move forward in the admissions process will be invited to interview in the fall. Newly admitted scholars will complete onboarding requirements during the spring and officially begin the program with the Summer Intensive in June 2027.

Continuing Scholars

Current CUPS scholars who remain in good standing and successfully complete annual recertification requirements will automatically continue into the next program year. Students who leave the program and wish to return must submit a new application.

Questions?

If you have questions about the CUPS Program or the application process, please contact the CUPS Staff. We are happy to help.

CUPS Application for the 2026-2027

Cohort Scope

See the table below for the learning goals and curriculum content by grade.

Career and community exploration program introduces students to a variety of professions and community roles, encouraging them to discover potential career paths and understand how different jobs contribute to society. Through interactive activities and real-world examples, students gain insights into the connection between education, personal interests, and future career opportunities.

Technology-based healthcare curriculum offers students immersive learning experiences in medical technologies, introducing them to innovations in healthcare, such as digital tools and devices. Paired with an introduction to makerspace, students engage in hands-on activities like designing prototypes and exploring the intersection of technology, health, and problem-solving.

Aims to instill high school freshmen with a comprehensive understanding of essential biomedical concepts, underscoring their significance in everyday life. This cohort explores topics like cancer biology and the central dogma of molecular biology. By offering hands-on experiences and interactive sessions, we nurture students' passion for biomedical science, fostering curiosity and expanding their knowledge base across various sub-disciplines. Guest lectures and collaborative activities enrich their learning, connecting theory to real-world application.

Aims to provide sophomores with an immersive experience in biotechnology and coding, offering a blend of theoretical knowledge, hands-on activities, and exposure to real-world applications. This cohort year fosters a deeper understanding of biotechnology concepts, introduces fundamental coding skills, and inspires ethical considerations in STEM fields.

Aims to immerse junior participants in an experience centered on health science research, financial literacy, and post-secondary preparation to empower young minds with essential skills and awareness. This comprehensive initiative integrates multidisciplinary learning experiences, offering students a dynamic curriculum encompassing a college credit-bearing course, research methodologies, SAT prep, and fundamental financial literacy concepts. This cohort year equips students with practical knowledge and cultivates critical thinking and research skills, fostering a sense of responsibility toward building healthier, equitable communities. By bridging these crucial domains, the junior year programming aspires to inspire young learners and instill the confidence to make informed decisions about their health, finances, and broader societal issues.

Aims to prepare high school seniors for a successful transition to post-secondary education by providing a comprehensive curriculum focused on academic success, healthcare & STEAM career exploration, financial planning, and health equity research and awareness. Students will develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to thrive in college and beyond through experiential learning opportunities, credit-bearing courses, certifications, and hands-on activities.

Application Questions?

Got questions about the CUPS application, program dates, or what the commitment looks like? Be sure to check out our FAQ page first—it’s a great place to find quick answers before reaching out to the program staff!

CUPS FAQ's

Additional Opportunities for K-12 Students

The Community Engagement Office offers additional opportunities for K-12 students to explore careers and learn about science. If you are interested in opportunities outside of CUPS, please visit the Career Exploration and Science Exposure webpage.

Tools & Resources

CU Campuses

CU Anschutz

Access and Engagement

PARTICIPANT ELIGIBILITY AND APPLICATION

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Office for Educational Outreach and Pathway Initiatives

Office of Access and Engagement

PARTICIPANT ELIGIBILITY AND APPLICATION

Sixth Grade Cohort

Seventh Grade Cohort

Eighth Grade Cohort

Freshmen Cohort

Sophomore Cohort

Junior Cohort

Senior Cohort

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Office for Educational Outreach and Pathway Initiatives

Office of Access and Engagement