Eligibility

• Rising 9th through rising 12th grade students are eligible.
• Students must be from priority populations in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Eligibility varies by location; check the specific site listing for additional information.

The AEOP defines priority populations as those who possess at least one of the following criteria: 

• Military-connected, which may include:
  • Military children: dependents of members of the Active-Duty Armed Forces and Veterans.
  • Military-connected: military children plus the dependents of members of the National Guard and Reserves.
• Economic: Family’s taxable income for the preceding year did not exceed 150 percent of the poverty level; those who qualify for free and reduced-price meals (FARM) programs; were or currently are eligible for Federal Pell grants; homeless; in foster care
• Racial and ethnic minorities that are historically underrepresented in STEM: Alaskan Natives, Native Americans, Black or African Americans, Latinx/Hispanic Americans, and Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders.
• Individuals with disabilities, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Individuals with English as a second language (ESL) or English language learners (ELLs).
• First-generation college students.
• Students in rural, frontier, or other federally targeted schools, such as title 1 schools.
• Females in STEM fields where they remain underrepresented (physical science, computer science, mathematics, and engineering).

Information for Volunteers

Unite programs engage volunteers to interact with students (as program assistants, mentors, speakers, etc.) during the summer. Inquiries about volunteering should be sent to specific Unite site directors.

More Information

• Unite informational flyer // Español
• What’s Next in AEOP after Unite? // Español
• Guide to STEM Careers // Español