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Science Enrichment Preparation (S.E.P.) Program

The S.E.P. Program will not be offered for summer 2026. Applicants who submitted an application will receive a full refund of their application fee. Should plans change in upcoming years, updated information will be shared on this website.

Gain the competitive edge with S.E.P.! Held each summer on the UNC Chapel Hill campus, the S.E.P. Program is an eight-week, honors-level academic enrichment program that targets first-generation, rural, and/or socioeconomically disadvantaged undergraduate students (rising sophomores and juniors) who seek admission into Medical School or Dental School. Scholars receive educational supplies, lodging on the UNC Chapel Hill campus, and a competitive stipend. During the program, S.E.P. Scholars:

  • Engage in more than 150 hours of classroom instruction in Physics, Organic Chemistry, Human Physiology and Quantitative Skills/Biostatistics.
  • Attend classes and seminars in reading speed and comprehension, test-taking strategies, essay writing, and interview techniques.
  • Visit local health facilities and network with health care professionals.
  • Shadow Medical and Dental health care professionals based on their pathway of interest.
  • Pre-Dental exposure will include a Dental Laboratory Course.
  • Pre-Medical exposure will include a Pre-Medical Course.

Eligibility Requirements:

Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Have in interest in attending Medical School or Dental School.
  • Be enrolled in a College/University, Community College or Early College Program.
  • Be classified as a rising sophomore or rising junior (current first year or second year) student at the time of application.
  • Have completed a minimum of three college-level credit hours each in Math, Biology and Chemistry by Summer 2026.
  • Earned a science/overall GPA of 3.0 or higher.
  • Be a US citizen or Permanent US Resident (North Carolina residents receive preference) and a minimum of 18 years old.  

Other Factors for consideration include: 

  • Lives, or has lived in, a rural/medically underserved community.
  • Comes from an economically or educationally disadvantaged background (First Generation College Student).
  • Has demonstrated an interest in issues affecting underserved populations.
  • Submits a compelling personal statement and a strong letter of recommendation.