Ignite Excellence Scholarship 2026
Full and partial scholarships for rising juniors and seniors ready to pursue original research with a university professor mentor.
Apply NowThe Ignite Excellence Scholarship makes university-mentored research accessible to more high-achieving high school students. Recipients work with a research-active professor to complete an original research paper, gaining skills and a credential that stands out in competitive college admissions.
Building on a strong first year in 2025 — in which 20 scholarship recipients worked with faculty mentors to produce six peer-reviewed publications (with seven student co-authors, including IEEE and ACM proceedings, computing's and engineering's leading professional societies) and nine additional papers now under review — the program returns for 2026 with the same core promise: real mentorship, real research, and meaningful financial support for students who qualify.
In total, the 2026 program represents a commitment of up to $224,325 in tuition fee waivers.
What You Receive
Direct Mentorship
One-on-one or small-group guidance from a research-active university professor.
Structured Curriculum
A guided 10-week research program, from topic selection to a completed paper.
Real Publication Potential
If your mentor judges your project ready after the 10-week program, you're invited to a 4-week Paper Writing Program toward a peer-reviewed journal or conference submission.
Paper Writing Program
A new 4-week add-on for projects with publication potential, guided by your faculty mentor toward a submission.
Recommendation Letter
Top-performing students may receive a personalized letter from their mentor.
Scholarship Tiers
Two tiers, each usable in either the 1-on-1 or Hybrid track.
Full Scholarship
A 100% tuition fee waiver, up to $10,000 in value, with potential Paper Writing Program support. Up to 12 awarded.
Partial Scholarship
A tuition fee waiver covering at least 50% of tuition. Up to 13 awarded.
Two Tracks
All recipients, including seniors, complete the same 10-week program. Seniors: the Dec. 8 finish is after most Early Action/Early Decision deadlines, so this supports Regular Decision applications.
1-on-1 Track
Fully personalized mentorship, working one-on-one with your university professor mentor.
Hybrid Track
Blends small-group learning with one-on-one mentorship from your professor.
2026 Research Focus: AI + X
Mentors are research-active professors from leading universities, matched to your interests and goals. AI-adjacent projects are especially encouraged, though strong proposals in any research area are welcome, including across the social sciences and humanities, particularly welcoming proposals in sociocultural anthropology with a geographical focus on modern North Africa and the Middle East.
Timeline
Not ready to apply yet? Get on our list for webinar reminders and program updates.
What Our Students Say
“What drew me to Ignite Achievers was mentorship from professors who are experts in their fields — it helped me turn my passion for STEM into something meaningful.”
— Alex K.
“Structured mentorship helped me turn an original idea into an independent research paper and build real research skills.”
— Samira J.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Ignite Excellence Scholarship?
Rising juniors (current 10th graders) and rising seniors (current 11th graders) with strong academic performance and a passion for research.
How is this different from the need-based and merit-based aid mentioned elsewhere on the site?
Need-based and merit-based scholarships are available year-round for any applicant. The Ignite Excellence Scholarship is a seasonal, competitive program with its own application cycle, tiers, and timeline.
What does a partial scholarship cover?
A partial award is a tuition fee waiver covering at least 50% of tuition; the remaining balance is due before the program begins.
How are recipients selected?
Applications are reviewed by our admissions team, followed by a virtual interview for selected candidates. Awards are based on academic strength, demonstrated curiosity, and fit with available mentors.
Can I apply if I've already submitted a general program application?
Yes. Use the scholarship application below in addition to your general program application to be considered for the Ignite Excellence Scholarship.
Ready to Apply?
Apply using the scholarship-specific form below.
Questions? info@igniteachievers.org