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

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.