PRIMES and PRIMES-USA
Research & internships · MIT Department of Mathematics · Boston area (PRIMES) or remote nationwide (PRIMES-USA)
Free year-long math and CS research program for high school students.
Our take
Year-long research with an MIT mentor. PRIMES-USA is the remote track for juniors anywhere in the country; the entrance problem set is the application.
“Helps an application” is our read on how much an admissions reader is likely to weigh it: Strong means getting in or placing is a real achievement, Solid means it shows real interest and effort, and Light usually means most students who apply and pay can attend. It’s our opinion, not a ranking from any college, and a light one can still be a great summer.
The details
- Run by
- MIT Department of Mathematics
- Type
- Research & internships
- Format
- Format varies, Boston area (PRIMES) or remote nationwide (PRIMES-USA)
- When
- During the school year, Full academic year
- Who can apply
- 10th–11th grade
- How hard to get in
- Highly selective
- Cost
- Free
- Deadline
- Usually closes in November or December.
- Subjects
- Math, Computer Science
Dates, costs and rules change every year. Check the official site before you apply. Last checked October 18, 2026.
Questions
Is PRIMES and PRIMES-USA worth it?
Year-long research with an MIT mentor. PRIMES-USA is the remote track for juniors anywhere in the country; the entrance problem set is the application. On how much it helps a college application, we rate it strong.
How much does PRIMES and PRIMES-USA cost?
It’s free, or it pays you. Check the official site for this year’s price.
When is the PRIMES and PRIMES-USA deadline?
Usually closes in November or December. Exact dates change every year, so confirm on the official site.
Who can apply to PRIMES and PRIMES-USA?
Students in 10th–11th grade. It is highly selective.
Want a list picked for you?
Clarity Prep members get opportunities matched to their grade, interests and state in the app, plus a mentor who helps them decide what’s worth applying to and checks in every week until the applications are in.
Free tools: GPA calculator · chances calculator · college acceptance rates · essay grader