PROMYS (Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists) at Boston University

PROMYS is a highly selective six-week residential summer program held at Boston University, designed for strongly motivated high school students who are passionate about mathematics.

The program encourages participants to explore the creative world of mathematics in-depth within a supportive community of peers, counselors, research mathematicians, and visiting scientists. The core of the program involves intensive efforts to solve challenging problems in Number Theory, fostering mathematical discovery and proof-based reasoning.

To be eligible, students must have completed at least 9th grade (or its equivalent) and be at least 14 years old by the start of the program. Students who have not yet enrolled as full-time college or university students are eligible, including those taking a gap year. International students are welcome to apply, though space is limited, and those residing in Europe or India are encouraged to apply to PROMYS Europe or PROMYS India, respectively.

Participants will gain a deeper understanding of advanced mathematical concepts, particularly in Number Theory, and develop critical problem-solving skills, creativity, and independent thinking. The program emphasizes the art of mathematical discovery, encouraging students to formulate conjectures and devise their own proofs. It also provides a unique opportunity to collaborate with like-minded peers and receive mentorship from experienced mathematicians.

The program fosters a collaborative community where students work independently and in small groups on daily problem sets. Beyond the core Number Theory lectures, students can participate in lab projects and advanced seminars. Recreational activities and weekend field trips are also organized, providing a balanced and enriching summer experience.