Have a question about CiC? We’ve answered some here!
Who is eligible to apply as a mentee?
- Students must be U.S citizens, permanent residents, DACA, or have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Unfortunately, this program does not sponsor visas nor accept temporary visas (F-1, J-1, dependents and others).
- Students who are currently enrolled in a school in Washington State in the 10th or 11th grade when they are applying.
- Students who have an interest in learning about technology, society, justice, and changemaking (no previous coding experience expected).
- Students must be able to make their way to UW. Bus passes will not be provided, but more information can be found about free youth passes at orca’s website. info.myorca.com/youth-ride-free
How much coding experience is expected?
None at all! This program is designed for students with little to no prior experience.
Where will the program take place?
The program will be happening in-person at the University of Washington, Seattle.
What are the program dates and times?
The program will run for four weeks during Summer 2026. We will meet in-person Monday-Thursday (excluding any U.S. holidays), roughly 9am to 3pm PT each day.
| Dates | What’s Happening |
|---|---|
| March 4th, 2026 | Application opens |
| April 1st, 2026 11:59PM PT | Application deadline |
| April 27th, 2026 | Applicants are notified of decisions |
| May 4th, 2026 | Deadline to accept spot |
| May 16th, 2026 | Orientation Day |
| July 6th to July 30th, 2026 | CiC Summer Program 2026! |
What does an average day look like?
In general, each week of the program will focus on different intersections of technology and society, with various projects. All of the mentors will be there to support you in your learning about technology and society throughout the day. Additionally, you will check-in with your mentee group, led by your assigned mentors, at the start and end of each program day.
Sample Schedule:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9:00am-9:30am | Optional Breakfast |
| 9:30am-9:50am | Mentor Group Check-In and Morning Activity |
| 9:50am-10:45am | Technical Foundations & Code Along or Social Responsibility & Tech Ethics Session |
| 10:45am-11:00am | Break |
| 11:00am-12:00pm | Career Exploration or Post-High School Education Session |
| 12:00pm-1:00pm | Lunch Break |
| 1:00pm-1:45pm | Technical Lesson or Project Worktime |
| 1:45pm-2:00pm | Break |
| 2:00pm-2:45pm | Technical Lesson or More Project Worktime |
| 2:45pm-3:00pm | Mentor Group Check-Out |
If you are accepted, we will reach out with plenty more details about what to expect!
What are the benefits of joining this program?
- Opportunity to engage and obtain mentorship from college students
- $1200 Stipend
- Campus experience
- Learn introductory coding skills
- Explore the potential impacts on society they can create with technology
- Receive support in seeking higher education
- Build community with other changemakers
- And much more!
What are my chances of being admitted into the program?
Every application submitted by the deadline will be reviewed equally.
Do I need to pay or buy anything?
No, this program is completely free. To acknowledge that many students would otherwise be working if they were not attending our program, we offer a stipend to every CiC Mentee. We will also be providing lunch and any necessary materials for all program dates.
What if I cannot attend part of the program?
Due to program capacity and limited time, all mentees are expected to attend the whole program.
Two absences will lead to a discussion with the program director in order to understand what is going on. After four absences, students will be dismissed from the program.
What if I don’t have a ride to the UW campus?
For Seattle area residents, many Link Lightrail and bus routes conveniently go to UW. You can use your bus passes to ride the link light rail and bus routes. Learn more about youth orca cards at their website. info.myorca.com/youth-ride-free
Does CiC provide housing?
No, CiC does not provide housing.
Still have questions?
Email us at cic@cs.washington.edu