Description

The Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) National Program Office is dedicated to providing comprehensive information to support applicants throughout the application process. We recognize the vital role you play in guiding college students, and we are committed to keeping the prehealth community informed about our programs.

We are excited to announce that the applications for SHPEP and the Minority Serving Institution Pathway Initiative (MSIPI) is now open! This year’s application includes MSIPI, an AAMC-funded initiative integrated into the SHPEP application process. By completing a single application, students can apply to both SHPEP and MSIPI sites. They can select up to three locations in total (including both SHPEP and MSIPI sites).

MSIPI is an innovative 5-week program designed to expand access to health professions for students at Minority Serving Institutions. With a blend of virtual and in-person programming, MSIPI offers tailored support for students participating at either a Native American-Serving Nontribal Institution (NASNTI) or a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). Through this unique experience, students engage in culturally enriched programming that honors the rich heritage and values of Native American and African American communities.

SHPEP has expanded its eligibility to include college juniors! If your students are interested in a career in the health professions and have earned no more than 90 credits (excluding AP and IB credits, but including dual enrollment), this opportunity is for them.

Please note that only two SHPEP Program Sites will be accepting juniors for this cycle:

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Western University of Health Sciences
Participants in SHPEP and MSIPI will benefit from:

Housing, meals, a stipend, and travel assistance.
Guidance from current admissions deans, health professionals, students, and SHPEP alumni to help them navigate their career paths.
While curricula and program dates may vary by site, SHPEP and MSIPI offer a range of academic and career experiences, such as:

Academic enrichment in basic sciences and quantitative topics.
Learning and study skills development, focusing on individual and group learning techniques.
Clinical exposure through small-group rotations in healthcare settings, simulation experiences, and seminars.
Career development sessions on health professions and the admissions process, along with the creation of an education plan.
A financial literacy and planning workshop covering financial principles and management strategies.
A health policy seminar series that discusses current health policy issues, the policymaking process, healthcare financing, and social determinants of health.
An introduction to interprofessional education, emphasizing effective collaboration across health professions.
The application submission deadline for SHPEP and MSIPI is February 5, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Additionally, all application materials, including one letter of recommendation and official transcript(s), must be postmarked/time-stamped by February 5, 2026. Please note that application materials postmarked by the deadline will be processed by the National Program Office, even if those materials arrive after the deadline. As a reminder, it can take up to 10 business days to process application materials once they are received by the National Program Office.