SPARC (Summer Program for Applied Rationality and Cognition)
by Center for Applied Rationality (CFAR)
Free two-week residential program
SPARC (Summer Program for Applied Rationality and Cognition) is a camp by Center for Applied Rationality (CFAR) for students in Class 8–12, open to students across India. Registration closes 24 Jan 2026. It is free to take part.
Mode
In-Person
Eligibility
Class 8–12
Fee
Free
Duration
2 weeks
Format
Individual · Teams of 10
Time needed
Full-time residential program, with 4-5 hours of classes/activities daily and evening speakers. Includes two rest days with optional activities.
Key Dates
- Registration opens
- 1 Dec 2025
- Registration closes
- 24 Jan 2026
- Camp
- 15 Jul 2026 – 29 Jul 2026
California State University, East Bay, Hayward, California
About This Opportunity
The Summer Program for Applied Rationality and Cognition (SPARC) is a free, two-week residential program designed for talented high school students. It focuses on developing quantitative thinking skills and improving mental habits by applying techniques from decision theory, behavioral economics, and statistics. The program aims to help students connect their analytical knowledge with real-world problems and personal decision-making.
SPARC is open to high school students and those who have not yet completed their first year of undergraduate studies. While younger students are welcome to apply, the program generally accepts students who are in at least 11th grade or equivalent. International students are also encouraged to apply.
Participants will deepen their quantitative skills through small, discussion-based classes covering concepts from causal modeling to cognitive science. The program also includes activities like programming labs, self-reflection exercises, and interactions with speakers such as academics, CEOs, and philanthropists. SPARC aims to foster confidence, empathy, and strategic competence in analytical minds.
The program is typically hosted at a college campus in California, with boarding and food provided free of charge. Need-based scholarships are available to cover travel costs for admitted students. SPARC seeks curious, driven, and self-reflective students who are good at simplifying and solving complex problems.
Eligibility
- Grade Level
- Class 8–12
- Age Range
- 12 - 18 years
- Location
- Nationwide
Academic requirement
Currently in high school or not finished first year as an undergraduate. Strong quantitative skills and interest in critical thinking.
Prerequisites
- Curious mind and willingness to reflect.
- Interest in quantitative skills and critical thinking about the broader world.
Additional requirements
- International students are welcome to apply.
- Curious mind and willingness to reflect.
- Interest in quantitative skills and critical thinking about the broader world.
Open to high school students and first-year undergraduates, generally aged 12-19. Applicants should possess strong quantitative skills and a keen interest in critical thinking. International students are eligible to apply. The program is held in California, USA.
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Academic Details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
The curriculum includes small, discussion-based classes covering undergraduate and graduate-level concepts from causal modeling to cognitive science. Topics include Noticing (mindfulness), Cognitive Biases, Superforecasting (Bayes' rule), and Statistical Street Fighting (information hygiene). Activities range from programming labs and self-reflection exercises to board games, improv sessions, Fermithon (estimation competition), and negotiation workshops. Guest speakers, including academics, CEOs, and philanthropists, provide real-world insights.
Rewards & Recognition
Award
Free program, boarding, food & travel aid
The two-week residential program, including boarding and food, is provided free of charge. Need-based scholarships are available to cover travel costs for admitted students.
Opens doors to
Participation in SPARC provides a strong foundation for pursuing higher education in STEM fields and enhances university applications, particularly for top institutions.
Career pathways
Develops foundational analytical and critical thinking skills highly valued in STEM fields, research, entrepreneurship, and various professional careers requiring strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Alumni have pursued careers in research and leadership roles in high-valuation companies.
Recognition
International Recognition & Prestige
Skills your child builds
How to apply
- 1Submit a custom written application online.
- 2If necessary, participate in a short candidate interview.
- 3Provide personal information and details of awards and accomplishments.
- 4Complete written responses to technical/quantitative and reflective questions.
- 5No grade reports, test scores, or recommendation letters are required.
Camp details
California State University, East Bay
Trainers
Instructors include academics and experts in relevant fields.
Facilities
Activities
- Discussion-based classes
- Programming labs
- Self-reflection exercises
- Board games
- Improv sessions
- Fermithon (estimation competition)
- Negotiation workshops
- Guest speaker sessions with academics, CEOs, and philanthropists
Fees & financial support
Fee details
The program is completely free, including boarding and food. There are no tuition fees.
Financial support
Need-based scholarships are available to cover the cost of travel for admitted students. These are provided to ensure accessibility for all qualified participants.
Refund policy
Not applicable as the program is free.
Frequently asked questions
What is the last date to register for SPARC (Summer Program for Applied Rationality and Cognition)?
The registration deadline is 24 Jan 2026.
Is SPARC (Summer Program for Applied Rationality and Cognition) free?
This opportunity is free to participate in.
Who can participate in SPARC (Summer Program for Applied Rationality and Cognition)?
Students in Class 8–12. children aged 12-18.
What will my child gain from SPARC (Summer Program for Applied Rationality and Cognition)?
Free two-week residential program with boarding and food provided.. Opportunity to develop advanced quantitative and applied reasoning skills.. Learn from experts in decision theory, behavioral economics, and cognitive science.. Gain insights into applying analytical skills to real-world and personal challenges.. Network with like-minded talented high school students and professionals.. Need-based scholarships available to cover travel costs.. Develop advanced quantitative and critical thinking skills.. Enhances applications to top universities globally.. Boosts career prospects in STEM, research, and leadership.. Gain international recognition and prestige..
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