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What Is the Research Science Institute? How Do You Get In?

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Interested in learning more about Research Science Institute? Maybe you've heard that the RSI Summer Program is the most competitive science research program for high school students in the US, and attending it is one of the best ways to get the attention of top-tier colleges. But what is the Research Science Institute, and what do participants do there? And how can you be one of the lucky few who get accepted? This guide will answer all those questions and give you tips on how to create a standout RSI application.

What Is Research Science Institute? What Do Participants Do?

The Research Science Institute (RSI) is a summer program for rising high school seniors, but it's not just any summer program . RSI is probably the most prestigious science research program in the country for high school students, and being able to include it on your resume can give your college applications a huge boost.

Each summer, 80 high school students who are selected for RSI spend six weeks at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Roughly a third of those admitted come from outside the US. There is no cost to attend the program.

The Research Science Institute was founded in 1984 as a way for high-achieving rising seniors to conduct high-quality science and engineering research before entering college. The program combines courses that focus on scientific theory with hands-on STEM research. Participants will experience the entire research cycle from start to finish. Some activities RSI students will do include:

• Reading current literature in their field of research
• Drafting and executing a detailed research plan
• Delivering written and oral reports of their findings

The first week of the course will consist of intensive STEM and humanities courses taught by MIT professors and researchers. For the subsequent five weeks, students will conduct individual research projects while being mentored by experienced scientists. Research projects take place off-campus, often at MIT labs, Harvard labs, or with a local company. During this time, there are guest lectures in the evening several times a week. Many of the lecturers are Nobel Prize winners and other leaders in their field. The final week is spent preparing and giving written and oral presentations on the research.

The research projects completed by participants are easily college-level in depth and difficulty. Students admitted to RSI get a very rare opportunity to conduct their own high-level research project and learn from MIT researchers and professors. You can view past RSI projects to get a sense of what participants do during the program (the link only shows math-related research projects, but projects are undertaken in many STEM areas).

How Competitive Is RSI?

As we mentioned above, RSI is very competitive. Each year, the program receives over 1,600 applications for 80 spots. That's an acceptance rate of less than 5%, on par with many Ivy League college acceptance rates . That means, hypothetically, a student could be accepted to Harvard, Yale, MIT itself etc. but not be competitive enough to get into RSI.

So what does this mean? First, you'll need to have a very strong application to get into RSI (we go into how to do this in the next three sections). Second, it means that, if you do get into RSI, colleges are going to be very impressed. Our co-founder, Allen Cheng, believes that his participation in RSI is one of the major reasons he got into Harvard . As he states, if a college sees that an applicant has already been admitted into a highly-selective program like RSI, they're much more likely to believe you're a standout applicant and worth seriously considering.

What Does RSI Look for in Applicants?

RSI admissions are based solely on academics and accomplishments; knowing the "right people" or being a legacy won't have any impact on your chances of getting in. It's all up to you. 

For academics, RSI recommends PSAT scores of 740+ in Math and 700+ in EBRW OR an ACT Math score of 33+ and English/Science/Reading scores of 34+. On the RSI website, they specifically recommend taking the PSAT, so that's the test you should take if you're deciding between that and the ACT.

For high school grades, RSI looks for "exceptional strong academic ability" in math, science, and verbal subjects, although no average or recommended GPA is given. However, because the program is so competitive, we recommend aiming for at least the top 5% in your class and for test scores, if not the top 1% , as well as taking advanced classes like honors and AP.

In terms of achievements, RSI is looking specifically for leadership and research experience, as well as a passion for STEM. Rather than having a lot of extracurriculars you spent a little time on, it's better to have a smaller list of extracurriculars that you've really committed to and shown leadership in. We call this a spike , and it's what top-tier colleges look for as well. Examples of things that'd stand out to RSI include:

• Research experience, with a bonus for being published in a scientific journal
• Leadership roles in extracurriculars (club president, starting your own club /company, etc.)
• Awards and achievements in other STEM competitions ( Science Olympiad , Chemistry Olympiad, Regeneron ISEF, etc.)
• Clear passion for a subject (i.e. most/all your extracurriculars focus on it)

How to Apply to the Research Science Institute

Once you've decided you want to apply to the Research Science Institute, what do you do now? Follow these six steps to apply to the RSI.

#1: Make Sure You Meet the Eligibility Requirements

RSI's eligibility requirements are pretty basic, but there's no wiggle room with them so you need to be sure to meet them. For US students (and US citizens living abroad), only current high school juniors can apply; the program takes place the summer between junior and senior year. No students in other grades will be accepted. RSI has partnerships with several dozen countries outside the US, and there are specific eligibility criteria for each.

If you're an international student, contact Ms. Maite Ballestero , who is the Executive Vice President of Programs. She'll help you determine if your home country participates in RSI and put you in contact with the right agency conducting selection for your country.

#2: Fill Out the Application

#3: answer the rsi essay questions, #4: get letters of recommendation, #5: send standardized test scores and high school transcript.

RSI requires applicants to send in test scores from all the standardized tests they've taken, including the PSAT, SAT, ACT, and AP. They particularly recommend PSAT scores. It can take up to two weeks for official scores to be sent, so be sure not to leave this until the last minute.

They also require a high school transcript . Your school must send them an official one so they can verify your grades and coursework.

#6: Submit by the Deadline

RSI does not accept late applications, so be sure you have everything submitted by the deadline. For US students, the deadline is January 15, and for international students it's March 15. This means your application, test scores, application fee of $60, and letters of rec all need to be submitted by that date. 

How to Get Into Research Science Institute: 4 Tips

Decided that you want to attend the RSI summer program? Below are four tips to follow to give yourself the best shot at getting admitted.

#1: Participate in Other STEM Competitions

Very few RSI participants get accepted without having first taken part in science competitions. Participating in other STEM competitions shows RSI that you have exceptional STEM skills and are a leader in the field compared to your peers. We have lists of science , math , and computer science competitions for high school students, which you should definitely check out.

Some of the most popular competitions students take part in before RSI include Science Olympiad, Chemistry Olympiad, Math Olympiad, the USA Computing Olympiad, Regeneron ISEF, the Harvard/MIT Mathematics Tournament, and the MIT THINK Scholars Program. Definitely don't think you need to compete in all of these; instead, choose one or a few that match most closely with your interests.

#2: Get Research Experience

#3: make sure you have strong letters of recommendation.

The 2-3 letters of recommendation you include as part of your application are the only time RSI will get to hear about your accomplishments and strengths from someone who isn't you. Strong letters of rec--those that clearly show that you're smart, talented, and a leader--will look a lot more impressive than a generic letter.

The key to getting good letters is to ask teachers who know you best. Don't feel that you automatically need to ask your junior year math and science teachers; if you had more of a connection with, say, a teacher from your sophomore year, ask them! And if there's someone who wasn't a math/science teacher of yours but who you think would write you a really strong letter, have them submit one since you're allowed an optional third letter. Be sure to give your letter writers several weeks (we recommend 6+) to write your letter so they have time to write you a stellar letter.

#4: Aim High for Your Standardized Test Scores

With competition to get into RSI as stiff as it is, you really need to have standout standardized test scores. For the PSAT (which they recommend), you want at least a 740 on Math and a 700 in EBRW. (If you took the SAT instead, your goal score would be the same). We have lots of tips for raising your PSAT and SAT scores , including how to get a perfect SAT score . For the ACT, they recommend a Math score of at least 33 and a score of at least 34 for the Reading, English, and Science sections. To help, we have a lot of guides for raising your ACT score and getting a perfect ACT score . 

As with all other parts of the Research Science Institute application, because the program is so competitive, you want to go above and beyond the recommended test scores, so aim high--about the top 1% of test scores. For the PSAT, that's about a 730 for EBRW and a 750 for Math, and for the ACT, that's about a 34 in Math and a 35 in the other subjects.

We recommend several months of studying and time to take the SAT/PSAT/ACT more than once if need be. To help you get started, here are sample SAT and ACT study plans so you can lay out your schedule.

Summary: How to Get Into Research Science Institute

What is the Research Science Institute? The RSI summer program is one of the most prestigious research programs for high school students--and one of the most competitive as well. The MIT RSI acceptance rate is less than 5%. The MIT Research Science Institute is for rising high school seniors and takes place for six weeks over the summer on MIT's campus. It's a fantastic way to get high-quality research experience before you even start college.

In order to make your RSI summer program application as competitive as possible, aim to compete in other STEM competitions, get research experience, get strong letters of recommendation, and aim for high standardized test scores (top 1%, ideally). RSI is tough to get into, but the upside is that, even if you don't get accepted, all the work you've done will make your college applications stand out even more.

What's Next?

Interested in other extra impressive extracurriculars? Check out four examples of extracurriculars sure to impress colleges.

There are many other science competitions beyond the Research Science Institute. Check out our guide to 11 of the best science competitions for high school students.

Do you love science? Check out our guide to learn which science classes you should take in high school .

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Since 1993, the MIT Mathematics Department has participated in the Research Science Institute (RSI) , an MIT-hosted six-week summer program for rising high school seniors. RSI students are chosen for their superior achievement in math, science and engineering. The selection for RSI is done by the Center for Excellence in Education , a federally and privately funded nonprofit organization, based in Washington DC. All inquiries about applications to RSI should be directed to the CEE.

There are about 3,000 applicants to the program each year and of the 80 selected, around one third are from abroad and two thirds from the United States. About a dozen students are selected to work on research projects in mathematics. The MIT Mathematics Department Faculty Advisors for RSI match each student with a mathematics graduate student mentor with compatible interests. The graduate student mentor devises a research project, often in consultation with an MIT faculty advisor. The graduate student then meets with each of his/her mentees each weekday during the RSI program. RSI faculty advisor is Prof. David Jerison. Program assistant is André Dixon.

Applying to RSI

The application materials and the process can be found online at CEE RSI application page .

Past Projects

At the end of the program, students make presentations to each other and to a panel of scientists who are usually former RSI participants themselves. See abstracts and papers from recent mathematics projects.

Recent Awards

RSI students often use their projects to participate in the Intel Science Talent Search (Intel STS) and the Siemens Competition in Math, Science and Technology or the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF). The mathematics group has been very well represented among the winners of these contests.

Preparing for MIT: Summer programs

We often get asked if there are particular summer programs students should do to prepare for applying to MIT, and our answer is always to spend your summers in the way that best suits your personal needs and goals . Similar to the way we look at a student’s extracurricular activities , there are absolutely no “right” or “wrong” answers.

But, if a STEM-focused summer program is what you’re looking for and you’re not sure where to start, here’s an incomplete list of summer programs that MIT students have found enriching and fun. These are selective summer programs, at MIT and elsewhere, that offer compelling intellectual content and a rigorous educational approach, a great community of like-minded peers, and are either free to attend or ( like MIT ) offer generous need-based financial aid.

MIT summer programs

MIT does not offer open-enrollment summer programs where any high school student can come to campus to take courses and live in the residence halls. However, several partner organizations run small, specialized programs on campus. If studying the human genome, building a robot, or scoping out the stars sound like a fun way to spend your summer, then you might try one of these:

MIT Introduction to Technology, Engineering, and Science (MITES)

MITES Summer is an intensive six-week residential academic enrichment program for high school juniors who intend to pursue careers in science, engineering, and entrepreneurship, especially those from underrepresented or underserved communities. The program is free of charge to participating students, not including transportation.

MITES Semester is a six-month, hybrid learning STEM and college preparation experience for high school juniors that runs June through December. The program is free of charge to participating students and provides engaging, rigorous online courses and weekly virtual webinars, social events, and workshops.

Mathroots (a joint program with MIT Admissions) is a free two-week mathematical talent accelerator residential summer program hosted by MIT PRIMES for nationally selected high-potential high school students from underrepresented backgrounds or underserved communities.

Research Science Institute (RSI)

Research Science Institute (RSI) is a program of the Center for Excellence in Education hosted in partnership with MIT. This rigorous academic program brings together high school students each summer for six stimulating weeks of advanced research and intellectual enrichment, with a focus on mathematics, science, and engineering. Participants attend college-level classes taught by distinguished faculty members and complete hands-on research. Open to high school juniors, the program is free of charge for those selected.

Women’s Technology Program (WTP)

Women’s Technology Program (WTP) is a women-focused program aimed at empowering students from groups that are historically underrepresented in engineering by providing a rigorous four-week summer academic experience that introduces 20 high school students to Mechanical Engineering (ME) through hands-on classes (taught by MIT graduate and undergraduate students), labs, and team-based projects in the summer after 11th grade.

Beaver Works Summer Institute (BWSI)

Beaver Works Summer Institute (BWSI) is an intensive four-week program where high school juniors can get a taste of the MIT experience while working on college-level curriculum with other students from around the country. There are a range of courses—from Autonomous Underwater Vehicles to Quantum Software and to Serious Game Design with AI—with concentrations in programming autonomous systems and more! While this program is only open to high school juniors, there are also online programs offered for younger high school students.

Summer Science Program (SSP)

While the Summer Science Program (SSP) is not on campus, MIT co-sponsors this residential program, and many MIT students are among the program’s alumni. The curriculum is organized around a central research project in either Astrophysics, Biochemistry, Genomics, or Synthetic Chemistry. The programs are six weeks long and offered at locations in Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Washington D.C.

Other selective summer programs

Most summer programs admit all or most students who can pay the (often high) tuition. However, a number of competitive-admission summer programs select only the best students on the basis of merit and are often free or comparatively affordable. Here are a few of these from other, non-MIT organizations (in alphabetical order):

Science & research summer programs

• BU Research in Science & Engineering (RISE)
• Clark Scholar Program
• Garcia Summer Scholars
• High School Honors Science, Math and Engineering Program (HSHSP)
• International Summer School for Young Physicists (ISSYP)
• Secondary Student Training Program (SSTP)
• Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
• Student Science Training Program (SSTP)
• Summer Program on Applied Rationality and Cognition (SPARC)

Math summer programs

The American Mathematical Society maintains a large list of math summer enrichment programs , as does the the Mathematics Foundation of America’s Summer Mathematics Program Consortium .

In general, some summer math programs that our applicants seem to especially like include:

• AwesomeMath
• Canada/USA Mathcamp
• Hampshire College Summer Studies in Mathematics (HCSSiM)
• Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS)
• Prove It! Math Academy
• The Ross Program
• Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC)
• Texas State Honors Summer Math Camp (HSMC)

Interdisciplinary or broader summer programs

• The nonprofit Davidson Institute maintains extensive lists of both residential and day summer programs across the United States that provide for the intellectual and social enrichment of students.
• The National Conference of Governor’s Schools (NCoGS) supports development and growth of summer residential governor’s school programs across 25 states , dedicated to finding and cultivating students with special academic, creative, artistic, and/or leadership talents.
• The QuestBridge College Prep Scholars Program partners with some institutions to send high-achieving, underserved, low-income students to residential and virtual summer programs —with scholarships that cover the full cost of travel, tuition, housing, meals, and supplies.

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Complete Guide to the Research Science Institute

• Last modified 2024-06-07
• Published on 2023-12-12

1. What is the Research Science Institute?

The Research Science Institute was founded by the Center for Excellence in Education (CEE), a nonprofit dedicated to nurturing high school and university students to a career in STEM. In addition to the Research Science Institute, this nonprofit sponsors well-known student programs such as the USA Biolympiad (USABO) and STEM Lyceums.

The Research Science Institute (RSI) is a prestigious summer program held at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for 100 select high school students. Participants engage in the entire research process, including reviewing current literature, developing research plans, and presenting their findings through written and oral reports. RSI includes a week of intensive STEM classes with professors, followed by a five-week research internship where students work on individual projects under the guidance of experienced mentors. The program culminates in research presentations on the findings and process of their projects.

3. How much does Research Science Institute Cost?

RSI is cost-free for students to attend. Students will participate in the entire research cycle, take STEM classes and conduct research with accomplished professors.

4. Research Science Institute Dates

Program Deadline : Applications for RSI 2024 close on December 13, 2023 at 11:59PM E.T.

Program Dates: RSI ’24 will be in session from June 23 to August 3, 2024

When do RSI decisions come out?

Since the program doesn’t offer rolling admission, all students are informed of their status in March.

5. What is RSI acceptance rate?

The Research Science Institute (RSI) is a highly competitive summer program that receives approximately 3,000 applications each year. From this large pool of applicants, only 100 students are selected for the program, resulting in an acceptance rate of about 3.3%. This level of selectivity is comparable to the admission rate for undergraduate students at MIT, highlighting the rigorous nature of the program.

According to the MIT Mathematics Department, the applicant pool for RSI is diverse, with approximately one-third of the participants coming from abroad and the remaining two-thirds from the United States. This international representation adds to the program’s global perspective and fosters a rich cultural exchange among the participants.

The high number of applicants and the limited spots available make RSI a highly sought-after opportunity for high school students interested in science and engineering. The program’s reputation, coupled with its association with MIT, attracts top talent from around the world who are eager to engage in intensive scientific coursework and research experiences.

6. What’s the application requirements?

The application is pretty straightforward, as the application only accepts high school juniors (typically students apply in the middle of junior year). High school seniors are not eligible to apply.

Depending on whether you’re a U.S. Citizens/Permanent Residents or an International Applicant, you will have a different application process:

• U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents: Your application will be submitted directly to CEE.
• International Applicants: Each participating country will have a different selection procedure and selection schedule. Students should contact Ms. Maite Ballestero, Executive Vice President of Programs to determine if your country participates.

After deciding your eligibility and application category, students will have to submit:

• Official high school transcript.
• 2 letters of recommendation (Math/Science or a research supervisor), with a maximum of 3 letters of recommendation to be submitted
• Standardized test scores: PSAT, SAT, ACT, and AP Exams
• Research Preferences: Please choose your first and second research fields.
• Applicant Personal Statements: Why did you choose the above research fields? What are your long-term goals? What activities and/or hobbies demonstrate your leadership, creativity, and uniqueness? Describe your participation in extracurricular or community outreach activities. How did you hear about RSI? Why are you applying to RSI? And, what aspects most appeal to you?
• Coursework: STEM coursework experience, Computer Skills, Additional STEM courses, and any other information regarding your academic performance that might be relevant
•  Awards and Accomplishments: Science Fairs, Competitions, or Programs; STEM Olympiad Distinctions. Please list (concisely) other major awards, activities, and accomplishments in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. Please list (concisely) the applicant’s most important non-STEM awards, activities, and accomplishments. Please list any previous STEM research; and Publications.

7. How to get into the Research Science Institute?

The Research Science Institute (RSI) application process requires students to demonstrate excellence in three areas: grades, research, and essays. While a stellar GPA is undoubtedly advantageous, having a lower GPA than some applicants does not necessarily preclude acceptance. RSI recognizes that academic achievements extend beyond just GPA. If your GPA doesn’t stand out, take the opportunity to highlight your commitment to academic rigor by showcasing challenging coursework and demonstrating competence in these challenging classes. Showcase your ability to excel in the face of intellectual challenges, illustrating how you’ve engaged with difficult subjects and emerged as a competent learner. The admissions committee values a holistic understanding of an applicant’s academic journey, and a lower GPA can be compensated for by emphasizing your dedication to intellectual growth.

Grades: For standardized scores, the program recommends that students should have PSAT Math Scores be at least 740 or higher, and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Scores be 700 or higher. ACT math scores should be at least 33, and verbal scores at least 34. However, even if your scores fall slightly below these thresholds, the emphasis should shift to showcasing your potential through other indicators. Strong recommendations, a compelling research portfolio, and active participation in science-related extracurricular activities can provide a comprehensive picture of your capabilities.

Research components: When it comes to the research component of the Research Science Institute (RSI) application, diversity in your research experiences can undoubtedly be beneficial, showcasing a well-rounded and versatile scientific background. However, it’s equally important to recognize the power of finding a specific focus within your research endeavors. Instead of scattering your efforts across a broad range of topics, identifying a niche or a particular area of interest can enhance the depth and impact of your application. In addition, don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself when writing down your research achievements. They are a testament to your passion for STEM and your capacity to make a meaningful impact. Whether you’ve won science fairs, participated in STEM competitions, or engaged in impactful extracurricular activities, these accomplishments add layers to your application, making you a standout candidate.

Essays: When answering questions in the essay section, be genuine and authentic in your responses, and if applicable, discuss how your experiences, challenges, or setbacks have contributed to your personal growth and how they will impact your research journey at RSI. Ensure that your responses align with the values and goals of RSI. Tailor your answers to reflect how your participation in the program aligns with your academic and career aspirations.

In addition to the tips above, students who attended RSI in 2022 – Rishab Jain and Elizabeth Nyamwange  – have also posted videos sharing their anecdotes of applying to RSI and getting accepted into the program. Here are some tips they want to leave you with:

• Start your application as early as possible. The earlier you start, the more time you’ll have to perfect your essays, get strong recommendations, and add new experiences. I started my RSI application in December and submitted it in early February.
• Get strong recommendations. When selecting recommenders, prioritize those who can speak to your academic prowess and your potential as a researcher. Ensure that their letters provide a comprehensive view of your capabilities, emphasizing your research work, initiatives, and contributions.
• Thoroughly review and edit! Before submitting your application, carefully proofread it multiple times, either on your own or with a family member or a teacher.

Some other helpful tips that we believe that students should know:

• Participate in more STEM competitions and research projects: Look for local, national, or even international competitions that cater to your specific interests within STEM. We have provided a list of 11 STEM Competitions for High School Students to help you get started. Winning or even participating in such events can set you apart from other applicants and provide tangible evidence of your dedication and skills. If you’re not ready for competitions at the moment, there are also 7 STEM activities that will get you familiar with the field and start building up your experience.
• Express your interest in collaborative research experiences: Don’t be afraid to share stories of your involvement in group projects, team efforts, or mentorship opportunities. Research is a collaborative journey, so it’s important to showcase your ability to work effectively in a research team, underscoring the collaborative spirit that is a hallmark of the RSI experience.

8. Elevate Your Research Journey with Aralia

If you’re interested in building your research experience to participate in the Research Science Institute in the future, consider applying for the Aralia Research Program , a valuable opportunity to conduct research with award-winning high school teachers and college professors!

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The Ultimate Guide to Getting into Research Science Institute (RSI)

Do you want to research over the summer with the help of experienced mentors? Do you want to meet with peers who share similar interests in the sciences as you? Do you want to explore campus life at MIT?

If you said yes to all of the above, then the Research Science Institute is perfect for you! While it is a highly selective program, this prestigious cost-free summer program hosted by MIT ensures their participants will get to explore their desired research project extensively. Read this article to learn more about the program and how you can get accepted.

What is the Research Science Institute?

First started in 1984, the Research Science Institute (RSI) is an international summer research program for high school students. RSI is sponsored by the Center for Excellence in Education (CEE) and hosted by MIT in Cambridge, Massachusetts every summer.

During the first week of the program, students will take intensive STEM courses, but during the five weeks afterwards, participants experience the entirety of the research cycle from start to finish . They read the most current literature in their field, create a detailed research plan, and receive guidance from experienced scientists and researchers. During the final week of RSI, these projects are published in a written report and delivered through oral presentations .

Where can I see past RSI projects?

Distinguished written papers and oral presentations in 2022 can be found here . Topics can range from a variety of subjects, such as mathematics, biology, physics, and robotics. Therefore, no matter which area of STEM you want to study, it is likely that you’ll be able to explore that area within RSI.

Is RSI prestigious?

This research program is highly prestigious . RSI is known globally for its excellent curriculum and research opportunities. With the program’s association with MIT and zero costs, the program is eyed by many aspiring high school students in STEM.

Due to its stellar reputation, RSI is very difficult to get into. While they receive over 1,600 applications yearly, only 100 high school students are selected.

In fact, getting into RSI pretty much signals that you’ll be accepted to MIT, along with many top level universities like the Ivy League!

Who is eligible?

The eligibility criteria is very simple: those who are entering their final year of high school are allowed to apply. This typically describes high school juniors, or those in the third year or in grade 11. High school seniors are not allowed to apply.

It is recommended that PSAT Math Scores be at least 740 or higher and the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Score be 700 or higher. ACT math scores should be at least 33 and verbal scores at least 34. Those with lower scores must show strong indicators of potential in other areas of STEM and academics, such as in recommendations, high school grades, and science activities.

Applicants are divided into two categories:

U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents . All U.S. students, including U.S. Citizens studying overseas, with one year remaining before graduation from high school, may apply to RSI. U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents applications are submitted directly to CEE. Students are not nominated or selected by their schools. Successful applicants will have demonstrated superior scholastic achievement in mathematics, the sciences, and verbal arts. They will have shown the potential for leadership in science and mathematics through their activities in and beyond the classroom.

International Applicants . Each participating country has its own selection procedure and selection schedule. Please contact Ms. Maite Ballestero, Executive Vice President of Programs to determine if your country participates. If it does, her team will put you in contact with the appropriate representative at the agency conducting selection for your country. For more information, click here .

What must the application include?

Each student must submit:

Essay responses to the questions in the application, such as his or her goals in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.

Recommendations by two teachers (Math/Science or a research supervisor). Applicants who have participated in a research project of 4 weeks or longer at a university or a laboratory should request a recommendation from the research supervisor.

Maximum of 3 recommendation letters are accepted.

Official high school transcript.

All scores from nationwide standardized tests, including the PSAT, SAT, ACT, and AP exams.

Students planning to apply for RSI are strongly encouraged to take the PSAT.

When is the deadline for RSI?

Applications for the 2023 cohort have closed. Every year, US applicants have a deadline of January 15th , while international students have the deadline of March 15th .

All components of the application, including essay responses, transcript, test scores, and application fee of $60, will need to be submitted by the deadline.

Tips to get into RSI:

RSI can be hard to get into, but with the right preparation, you can show the admissions committee that you are committed to the field of STEM.

Tip #1 : Prioritize academics and letters of recommendation.

The first step is to have high grades in your schoolwork. It’s expected that participants of the program are passionate about schoolwork, and therefore, being able to present high grades in your transcript will be useful. Moreover, because of RSI’s emphasis on STEM, students are encouraged to take rigorous courses in math, science, and engineering. It is useful to take AP Physics 1/C and AP Calculus AB/BC, for example.

Not only will this prove your commitment to academia, but also it will allow you to have good relations with many of your teachers, who you can ask for recommendations when you are able to apply. Make sure to pay special attention in your math and science courses to build a good repertoire. Then, at least 6 weeks before the deadline of the application, you can ask for recommendations from teachers that know you best from your sophomore or junior year.

Tip #2 : Achieve high standardized exam scores.

The next step is to take standardized exams . While they are not explicitly required, having high test scores can significantly boost your chances of acceptance. If you have taken AP classes, be sure you receive 4s or 5s if possible. Be prepared to register for the PSAT, which is administered only once every year during October. The last year that you can take it before you can apply for RSI is in 11th grade, so it may be helpful to take it in earlier years. SAT or ACT scores may be submitted as well, but it’s not necessary.

Tip #3 : Participate in STEM competitions.

Try out STEM competitions . For example, joining your local science olympiad team and excelling in regional, state, and national levels will highlight your skills in science. If you’d prefer engineering, then you may join your school’s robotics club for contests and projects, or you can win medals in coding competitions like the USACO. There are a plethora of other competitions, including but not limited to Chemistry Olympiad, Math Olympiad, the USA Computing Olympiad, Regeneron ISEF, the Harvard/MIT Mathematics Tournament, and the MIT THINK Scholars Program. Find a STEM subject you are passionate about and you’ll definitely find a competition that will match your interests.

Tip #4 : Obtain prior research experience.

While RSI will engage participants into the full research process, If you’d like to get involved in research, then it’s recommended that you reach out to your high school teachers, guidance counselors, or even university professors who conduct work in your field of interest to research on your topic. Admittedly, this is the most difficult tip, as very few high schoolers are able to achieve research experience, but for those that do, they stand out from their peers. Therefore, don’t be afraid to reach out to the people in your circle to see what research opportunities may be available.

Example Student Profile: Puja Chopade

Everyone’s application is and should be different, but it may be helpful to see previous acceptee’s profiles – while they shouldn’t be copied, they can serve as an inspiration as to what you can do for your application.

Puja Chopade was a junior at Bob Jones High School when she was accepted into RSI 2022, which accepted only 81 students at the time.

Her achievements included being ranked as the second-place finalist in Pathophysiology at the Future Health Professionals State Leadership Conference in early 2021, and her Science Bowl team claimed the regional title. Moreover, she served as the President and co-founder of Bob Jones Science Academy , which hosts the Bob Jones Science Challenge. She also claimed the title of 2021 Alabama Brain Bee Champion , a neuroscience competition aht is affiliated with the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Moreover, she explored her hobbies in chess. She was an accomplished chess player in Madison City Chess League and was the Assistant Tournament Director of at the 2021 Fall Scholars Tournament . The year prior, she placed top ten in the 2020 Madison City SChools Tournament in the K-12 Open Section and tied for third place in the U1200 section of the Alabama State Chess Champions .

To highlight her strengths and why she was accepted, Puja’s application clearly showcased her competence in science , particularly in competitions that involved physiology. Not only did she win awards, but she held leadership positions as well , which showed her deep involvement and commitment to these communities. Finally, while not directly related to STEM, her hobby in chess proved that she had outside interests and contributed to the admissions officers’ content of her character.

Overall, Puja was strong in many areas. Her extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and diverse range of interests undoubtedly stood out, and led to her acceptance – therefore, adding these elements to your application can help you as well!

Final Thoughts

All in all, it’s incredibly crucial that you are a student who is deeply interested in STEM in order to highlight your skills to RSI. The advice listed above can provide you with a good framework for not only other summer program applications, but also applications for college when you start applying in senior year. Start early as soon as possible and don’t be afraid to pursue different interests!

If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, and chemistry, consider applying to Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs ! 

This is a selective virtual research program that lets you engage in advanced research and develop a research paper on a subject of your choosing. Horizon has worked with 1000+ high school students so far and offers 600+ research specializations for you to choose from. 

You can find the application link here

If you are interested in doing university-level research or preparing for competitive programs like RSI, then you could consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program , a selective online high school program for students that I founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 2100 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.

Also check out the Lumiere Research inclusion Foundation , a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students.

Lydia is currently a sophomore at Harvard University, studying Molecular and Cellular Biology. During high school, she pursued engineering activities like attending the Governor's School of Engineering and Technology. In her spare time, she likes to create digital art while listening to music.

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How to Get Into Research Science Institute (RSI)

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 7/16/24

The Research Science Institute is thought of as the pinnacle of internships for future scientists and researchers. Read on to learn how to get into the Research Science Institute.

Have you heard about the Research Science Institute (RSI)? It’s an annual event hosted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology that provides high schoolers with a unique opportunity in their junior year. 

Attending the RSI can change the trajectory of your academic and professional career. You can even improve your chances of getting into MIT ; all you have to do is apply. Applications open during the fall, with limited capacity for American and international students. Thinking about submitting an application?

Below we’ll discuss everything you need to know about how to get into the Research Science Institute.

What Is the Research Science Institute?

The Research Science Institute is an internship program that invites 100 high school students to participate in scientific research at MIT’s main campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The program is hosted by its large parent organization, the Center for Excellence in Education , which focuses on STEM careers. 

Under the guidance of MIT’s brilliant professors and scientists, students will present oral and written reports on research that they’ll conduct on campus. The goal of the RSI is to give students the opportunity to experience an entire research cycle before entering college. To meet this goal, students will participate in an intensive seven-week program. 

The RSI typically accepts around 30 international students out of the 100 total participants. Students from over 60 countries have participated in the RSI since its inception in 1984. Since the program is merit-based, students won’t have to pay out of pocket for the experience, no matter where they come from!

The first week at the RSI is preparatory. The program highlights the importance of being strong communicators and well-rounded learners, so you’ll take a few humanities courses within this time. 

After this, the internship focuses on guided research for six weeks, honing the students and their passions. You’ll be paired up with an MIT mentor while taking on biology, chemistry, engineering, and math courses. You’ll then apply what you learn to your research project. After, the final research presentation wraps up the internship.

If accepted into the RSI, you’ll be surrounded by MIT professors and like-minded peers from all around the world, giving you a unique networking opportunity. This is another reason why this program is highly regarded!

Why You Should Consider Applying to Research Science Institute 

You should apply to the Research Science Institute (RSI) because it offers a free and valuable research opportunity at MIT.

RSI covers all expenses, including travel, room and board, and research supplies. You can focus on your work without worrying about costs. You'll be mentored by top scientists and engineers. Guest speakers are experts in their fields.

The program is held at MIT. You'll use state-of-the-art equipment in their labs, hospitals, and corporate research facilities. This gives you access to the best resources for your projects.

RSI is very selective, accepting about 80 students each year. It’s prestigious and competitive. Being part of RSI connects you with highly accomplished peers called "Rickoids." This experience can boost your chances of getting into top colleges.

The RSI application process is similar to college admissions. This helps you prepare for what you'll need to do during your senior year. Even if you don't get in, the experience of taking tests, gathering recommendations, and writing personal statements is valuable.

RSI provides hands-on research experience. You'll read current literature and present your findings. You'll develop important skills like critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and time management. These skills are essential for your future success.

How to Get Into the Research Science Institute

If you want to get into the RSI, you’ll need a competitive GPA and impressive test scores. Aim for a score of 1500 on the SAT and 34 on the ACT, and maintain a 4.0 GPA. To make your application stand out, demonstrate your passion for STEM through extracurricular projects and essays that focus on your scientific goals!

Answering the question, “how to get into the Research Science Institute?” comes with a list of strict criteria. Though more than a thousand students apply every year, only the best and the brightest are selected. But don’t be discouraged! 

To help you get into the Research Science Institute, here’s a breakdown of its eligibility requirements . In addition to being a junior in high school, students must also include the following in their application:

Standardized Test Scores

Students must include all standardized test scores that they have taken in their application. This includes the ACT , SAT , and AP exams . If you haven't taken the SAT yet, you can also submit your PSAT score .

Concerning the SAT, the RSI requires you to score a minimum of 700 on the Reading and Writing SAT section and at least a 740 on the Math section. If you’ve opted for the ACT, however, you must meet a minimum of 33 on the Math portion and a 34 on the Verbal test. 

Letters of Recommendation

Students must provide at least two letters of recommendation from math and science teachers in their application. If you have taken on a research project at another university or laboratory, you must also ask for a third letter of recommendation for that program’s research supervisor. No matter who you ask, make sure your recommender is familiar with your academic ability. 

Official High School Transcripts

In addition to their standardized test scores, students must also submit their official high school transcripts to give program organizers a complete idea of their academic profile. Remember, RSI is very competitive. To keep up, aim to get as close to a 4.0 GPA as you can. 

Answer the Essay Questions

The students’ application must also include answers to the RSI essay questions. The answers should include their goals in science, technology, engineering, or math.

If you can meet these requirements, you should definitely consider applying to the RSI! Keep in mind that international students may have additional requirements, depending on their home country. 

If you’re worried about standing out among the other 1,600 applicants, remember that while your academic profile is important, it’s not the only thing that matters. The RSI program values candidates who are well-rounded, passionate, and excellent leaders.

A great way to stand out is by pursuing a passion project in math, science, or another related field of interest!

Think you might be interested in pursuing STEM in college? Check out this video to learn how to dive into different STEM fields, connect with mentors, and get ready for an exciting academic and professional journey ahead.

RSI Application Timeline

Applying to the RSI involves keeping track of important dates. Here’s what you need to know for RSI 2024:

• Application Deadline The deadline to apply is December 13, 2023, at 11:59 PM E.T. Submit your application before this time.
• Program Dates RSI 2024 runs from June 23 to August 3, 2024. If accepted, you need to be available for the entire program.
• Decision Notification RSI does not offer rolling admissions. All applicants will find out their status in March. This means everyone gets their acceptance or rejection at the same time.

Keep these dates in mind and plan accordingly. Submit your application early. Be ready to wait until March for the decision. If you get in, be free from late June to early August.

Where to Apply for the RSI

Ready to apply for the RSI? You can submit your application through the Center for Excellence in Education’s portal if you’re ready to put what you’ve learned about how to get into the Research Science Institute into practice.

The application window only exists during the fall semester, so if you don’t see a place to submit your applications, the deadline has passed. 

If you’re considering applying, you’ll need to do so before the end of your junior year. If you need more specific information, don’t hesitate to contact the RSI by email. If you’re an international student, you must contact your RSI’s international representative to ensure you’ve met any country-specific requirements.

Tips on How to Apply to RSI

To gain admission to RSI, you need to first ensure you're eligible. You must be a high school junior (11th grade). Seniors can’t apply, and younger students are rarely accepted.

Second, complete standardized testing and submit your PSAT, ACT, or SAT scores. RSI prefers the PSAT, looking for math scores of at least 740 and EBRW scores of at least 700. For the ACT, they expect math scores of at least 33 and verbal scores of at least 34. 

If your scores aren't this high, don't worry too much. Strong recommendations, essays, science or math activities, published research, and awards can matter more than perfect test scores or grades.

Start your application early since it’s detailed, like a college application. Give yourself plenty of time for recommendations, personal statements, and proofreading.

Get strong recommendations from a math or science teacher or research supervisor. Choose recommenders who know you well and can talk about your abilities and passion for STEM.

In your essay, highlight your genuine interest in science, technology, engineering, or math. Mention your research, projects, and extracurricular activities. Choose two research fields and a subfield for each, like biology with a subfield in genetics or physics with a subfield in condensed matter physics. Link your activities to these fields to show the RSI faculty your STEM interests and experience.

Finally, actively pursue your interest in STEM before applying. Engage in independent projects, take extracurricular courses, and enter competitions like Regeneron ISEF. Get involved in math competitions. Published works and demonstrated leadership in your area of interest are also beneficial. RSI wants to see your passion for scientific inquiry and curiosity about the world.

Not sure which high school classes to choose, though? Take our "What Classes Should I Take in High School?" quiz . It gives personalized recommendations based on your interests and goals, helping you excel in programs like the Research Science Institute (RSI) and beyond. Start making informed choices today for a successful academic journey!

FAQs: Research Science Institute

Below are some common questions about the RSI from potential applicants. 

1. How Do You Qualify for RSI?

To qualify for the RSI, you must meet all their specifications regarding transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation. You must also be a junior in high school; seniors are not eligible to apply. 

2. How Hard Is It to Get Into the Research Science Institute?

So, how hard is it to get into the Research Institute of Science? Looking at the requirements, you’ll find that the answer is that it’s quite challenging. The limited number of students that are accepted each year makes this internship application especially competitive. 

3. How Many Applicants Does RSI Get?

The RSI receives over 1,600 applications from qualified students. With only 100 students picked out of that number, and at least 30 spots reserved for international students, your odds as an American applicant land just over three percent. 

But don’t let this deter you! Even though the chances are low, you’ll never get in if you don’t apply!

4. What Is RSI’s International Inclusiveness Like?

The RSI reserves 30 spots for international students from more than 60 countries. If you value the insight gained from a cultural exchange and hope the program is inclusive, you’ll be relieved to find that the RSI holds these same values!

5. Who Can Apply for RSI?

RSI applications are only open to students in their junior year, which is equivalent to the eleventh grade depending on your country. 

Since the application window is only open in the fall, you will miss your chance if you have not signed up before the semester's end. Keep in mind that you will not have another chance, so you need to decide fast!

6. Are High School Internships Worth It?

Students do not often pursue internships in high school. Between trying to ace standardized tests, secure letters of recommendation, and build a solid college list , students’ schedules are typically filled to the brim! 

Many students believe it’s best to use their time during the school year to focus on extracurriculars and maintaining high GPAs. However, participating in an opportunity like the RSI in the summer will definitely be worth your time!

7. How Do You Stand Out In the RSI Application? 

There are a few key tips that can help you stand out from the competition . According to an interview with the RSI Vice President, CEE likes to see students who are passionate and involved in math, science, and leadership programs. Keep this in mind when pursuing extracurriculars in high school!

Final Thoughts

The Research Science Institute is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of researchers by offering a cost-free internship program to high school students. Its goal is to ignite students’ passions and encourage them to work towards making the world a better place.

While challenging, an internship at the Research Science Institute will become a life-defining experience. If you’re still wondering, “How to get into the Research Science Institute?", the first step is to ensure you meet the requirements. 

If you're a driven individual with a passion for science and math and possess the leadership skills to make a difference, an opportunity at the Research Science Institute may be the perfect fit for you.

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Every summer, 80 of the top students from around the world come together at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for an intensive summer program called the Research Science Institute (RSI). However, RSI is not a typical summer camp; it is free to students, and you leave with a slew of new connections and experiences that most other high school students will never be able to experience.

Interview With Research Science Institute

Moon Prep sat down with Maite Ballestero , the Executive Vice President of Programs and Administration and Maureen Palmer , the Manager, Advisory and Consultancy for the Research Science Institute, to gain further insight into the admission process and how prospective candidates can make their application stronger.

Kristen Moon: What are the general guidelines for admission?

Maite Ballestero and Maureen Palmer: To gain admission into the Research Science Institute, there is a set of general guidelines that the ideal candidate should meet. On average there are more than 1600 applicants into this camp, of which only 80 are chosen. Admissions are solely based on academics and accomplishments, and no applicant is favored due to legacy or knowing someone who is associated with the program.

Students are expected to achieve high marks during their high school career, and perhaps even lead a club or start their own business or nonprofit. While the average GPA and test scores change from year to year, typically the students will be in the top 1%. To combat GPA inflation, the admissions committee looks at individual coursework and the grades. One last thing the committee wants to receive is at least one standardized test score: the PSAT, SAT or ACT. It is not required that you take all three, just one.

However, just because you meet all of these requirements doesn’t mean you will gain a spot at the camp, and you don’t have to meet all of the criteria to be chosen for RSI. The review process is holistic, and many factors are considered.

Moon: Any advice to students on how to get accepted?

Ballestero and Palmer: Be passionate, be well-rounded. Be a leader. Be who you are. Perhaps you have heard of the saying, ‘Jack of all trades, master of none.’ We want students to find out what they are passionate about and explore it deeply. We don’t expect students to be able to list out ten or more activities they excel at. In fact, we prefer to see students doing a few activities that they have leadership positions.

We do like to see students who have been published. While the committee does love to see this, it is not a requirement and it by no means guarantees your entrance into the program. A gold medal in Science Olympiad also helps your application stand out, but once again, it does not mean you will be admitted.

Even if the applicants are from small towns, we want to see students who are taking advantage of what opportunities are available to them. We want them to exploit their surroundings in the most positive way. For example, if you are passionate about math, the student should be going to summer programs in math and taking courses online or at community colleges. Some applicants are world-class musicians, cross country stars, or accomplished singers. We have even had a previous student who could have qualified in the Olympics in figure skating. There is never a dull moment here!

Moon : What is the process of selection?

Ballestero and Palmer: We are the first high school program to use SlideRoom , which is an applicant tracking and management system. It makes it easy to share our files with a committee of seven to nine people. The process is very intensive because each member presents the students who they would like to be admitted to the entire committee, and the decision must be unanimous.

We will have applications from every single state and many countries. We have partnerships with 15 countries, and we typically admit 30 international students. We also have worked with NGOs and gifted and talented organizations to find the most qualified students. Of course, we thoroughly vet every student who is admitted into the program, regardless of how we find them.

We are very proud never to have had to charge for this opportunity. When we are selecting attendees, we make sure that we are giving a spot to a student whose life could be changed by this camp. Regardless of income, background, or where you grew up, all students are looked at objectively.

Moon: What are some of the biggest accomplishments that you have seen from past applicants?

Ballestero and Palmer: After the program ends, the students enter into their senior year. That means they will be competing in and frequently winning science fairs, the Regeneron Science Talent Search , and other math or science-based competitions. Some of our admitted students continue to show great success and continue to research their fields.

One of the mentors for our program and an alum is Feng Zhang , the inventor of CRISPR, a gene-editing technique. He is very generous with his time and continues to support the program.  The founder of Pinterest , the first female math chair at Harvard, and a Facebook engineer are all alums, and they all continue to give back to the program. As you can see, many of our students go on to achieve great things! They go on to study at Stanford, Harvard, Yale, MIT, Princeton and are the recipients of every type of award and scholarship imaginable including Rhodes Scholars , Waterman Awards , and Simons Investigators . Anything is possible for our alums.

Moon: What are some of the highlights of the program?

Ballestero and Palmer: The program lasts for six weeks, and is packed with activities from start to finish. For the first four days, every single student, regardless of their interests, reads a humanity book. Last year, they read Frankenstein. It helps them start thinking from the first day, and we have a small essay competition, which is a light-heart way to get the students to acclimated into the program.

All students take humanities because we want students to realize that communication is crucial. This course helps them to become more effective community members and more well-rounded. After this first week, they get to dive more into their research topic in either biology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, physics, or humanities.

We partner with MIT, and an alum or MIT professors teach all of the classes. For Weeks 2-5, the attendees are paired up with a mentor who works in the field the student wants to learn about more. Of course, one of the biggest struggles is finding a good bond between the mentor and the mentee, so we work hard to make sure the student and mentor are a good fit.

The students might be working in a lab at Harvard, MIT, Broad Institute, or a local company. We ensure the students are always safe and able to learn more about a specific academic area.

Throughout the program, we also have a guest lecture series three or four nights a week. We bring in Nobel Prize winners, people who work in top companies, and other leaders in their fields. We want our attendees to meet and network with the guest lecturers and help them broaden their horizons.

During the last week of the program, they will finish the research paper they have been working on throughout the program. The students then present their paper in both an oral and written format. We feel that this is an integral part of the program because some students have never had to present their research in this way. It makes for a good learning experience for them.

Moon: What are some of the biggest challenges students face in the program.

Ballestero and Palmer: The heat! Since there is no air conditioning, it can become quite muggy. They have to try to stay cool and still get a good night’s rest to keep on working hard all week.

Moon: What are some of the biggest takeaways students get by the end of the camp?

Ballestero and Palmer: When the students come to the camp, they might be meeting kids that are just like them for the first time - other students who perform competitively and at a high academic level. By the end of the program, they have formed friendships that often last for years. There are Facebook groups, Google Hangouts, and other methods of keeping in touch with the students. We try to help them find internships or even get jobs. Essentially, you are part of this group for life, or as long as you want to continue engaging with other members.

The application deadline for the Research Science Institute is January 15 for domestic students and March 15 for international students. To apply and for more information, visit www.cee.org/apply-rsi .

Research for this article was contributed by Moon Prep college counselor,  Lindsey Conger .

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Applications Being Accepted for 2023 Research Science Institute

martyna p November 6, 2022 Competitions

The Center for Excellence in Education (CEE) is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for its 2023 Research Science Institute (RSI), which is collaboratively sponsored with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, MA on its campus.

RSI ’23 will be in session from June 25 to August 5, 2023. It will bring together top U.S. and international high school students who have completed comparable to three years of school for an intensive, six-week program that provides students with the opportunity to conduct original, cutting-edge research. RSI is cost-free for students to attend.

Participants experience the entire research cycle from start to finish. They read the most current literature in their field, draft and execute a detailed research plan, and deliver conference-style oral and written reports on their findings.

During the first week of RSI, students participate in intensive STEM classes with accomplished professors. The heart of RSI is the five-week research internship where students conduct individual projects under the tutelage of scientists and researchers.

To apply, visit  https://www.cee.org/apply-rsi . The deadline is December 2, 2022.

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Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, August 24, 2024

Riley Bailey, Grace Mappes, Nicole Wolkov, Davit Gasparyan, and George Barros

August 24, 2024, 8:20pm ET  

Click here to see ISW’s interactive map of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This map is updated daily alongside the static maps present in this report.

Click here to see ISW's interactive map of Ukraine's offensive in Kursk Oblast.

Click here to see ISW’s 3D control of terrain topographic map of Ukraine. Use of a computer (not a mobile device) is strongly recommended for using this data-heavy tool.

Click here to access ISW’s archive of interactive time-lapse maps of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. These maps complement the static control-of-terrain map that ISW produces daily by showing a dynamic frontline. ISW will update this time-lapse map archive monthly.

Note: The data cut-off for this product was 1pm ET on August 24. ISW will cover subsequent reports in the August 25 Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment.

Ukrainian long-range strikes against Russian military targets within Russia’s rear are crucial for degrading Russian military capabilities throughout the theater, and the lifting of restrictions on Ukraine's use of Western-provided weapons would allow Ukrainian forces to strike a wide range of significant targets undergirding Russia’s war effort. An unnamed senior Biden administration national security official reportedly stated that Ukrainian strikes with Western-provided weapons against targets within Russia would not be effective because the Russian military has redeployed military aircraft from Russian airbases near Ukraine — but this assessment ignores how Russian forces are leveraging sanctuary space in deep rear areas within Russia for a wide array of infrastructure besides airfields to support military operations against Ukraine.  Politico  reported on August 23 that an unnamed senior Biden administration national security official stated that Russian officials have moved some targets out of range of Western-provided Storm Shadow and ATACMS missiles and that Ukrainian forces only have a limited supply of these missiles.[1] An unnamed administration official also reportedly stated that Russian forces have moved 90 percent of the aircraft that conduct glide bomb strikes from Russian airspace away from airfields within range of Storm Shadow and ATACMS missiles.[2] ISW has observed confirmation of redeployments of Russian aircraft to airfields out of range of Western-provided long-range weapons, and the reported decreased Russian aviation activity throughout the theater is consistent with reports that Russian forces have been redeploying aviation assets.[3]

The redeployment of Russian air assets from Russian air bases in range of ATACMS does not remove the utility of using ATACMS against other Russian military targets, however.  ISW assesses that there are at least 250 military and paramilitary objects in Russia within range of ATACMS missiles that the United States has provided Ukraine. The United States currently prohibits Ukrainian forces from using ATACMS missiles to strike military targets in Russia, however, and only allows strikes using US-provided HIMARS equipped with GMLRS — at maximum permitting Ukraine to strike only 20 out of the 250 objects it could strike with ATACMS. Only 17 of these 250 objects are airfields, and it is unlikely that the Russian military has redeployed assets away from all the other 233 objects to the same degree as it has reportedly done with aviation assets.

US officials’ comments centered on Russia’s redeployment of air assets have so far largely ignored the majority of targets in range of ATACMS that Ukrainian forces could strike if US prohibitions were lifted. Many of the 233 military and paramilitary objects in range of ATACMS are large military bases, communications stations, logistics centers, repair facilities, fuel depots, ammunition warehouses, and permanent headquarters that would be extremely difficult or impossible to quickly redeploy assets from or rapidly harden. ISW has not collected open-source evidence of redeployments of military assets from the majority of Russia’s rear areas. The mass redeployment of assets away from such facilities would present significant challenges to Russian logistics throughout the theater, and open sources and US officials have not indicated that Russian forces have engaged in such logistical upheavals. Such disruptions to Russian logistics throughout the deep rear would have also constrained ongoing Russian offensive operations throughout the frontline, and ISW has not observed evidence of such widespread logistical constraints. The 233 Russian military and paramilitary objects within ranges of ATACMS missiles that are not airfields support Russian command and control (C2), intelligence, reconnaissance, logistical, and repair support for Russian forces fighting in Ukraine and in Kursk Oblast, and the assessment that there is no utility in granting Ukraine the ability to use ATACMS in Russia on the basis of limited redeployments of air assets from some airfields ignores these facilities. Any assessment that argues that there is no point in allowing Ukraine to strike targets in Russia on the exclusive basis of air asset redeployments is incomplete without also accounting for the hundreds of other facilities supporting Russia’s war against Ukraine and would thus be incorrect.

ISW presents satellite imagery of some of these facilities below to illustrate the intrinsic difficulty in either adequately protecting or redeploying assets away from such facilities at scale.

Ukrainian forces do not have to strike every single Russian military and paramilitary object in Russia within range of Western-provided weapons to start generating significant operational pressures on the Russian military.  The lifting of the current Western restrictions would generate a serious Ukrainian long-range strike threat that would force a decision point on the Kremlin and likely prompt the Russian military command to significantly reconfigure assets throughout the deep rear to protect against Ukrainian strikes. Ukraine's successful use of HIMARS against Russian logistics, C2, and aviation facilities in occupied Ukraine in Summer and Fall 2022 eventually forced the Russian military to disperse many of these assets, causing disruptions to Russian operations throughout the theater and significantly contributing to Russia’s pace of advance grinding to a halt by late 2022.[4] Russian forces have since appeared to adapt many of their logistics systems in occupied Ukraine to protect against Ukraine's long-range strike capabilities at the expense of sacrificing logistical efficiency in part by offloading many requirements to military and paramilitary facilities out of range of HIMARS and within sanctuary space in Russia.[5] Russia also deployed air defense and electronic warfare assets to protect vulnerable targets against Ukrainian precision fires, degrading the effectiveness of those fires. It is unlikely that Russian forces have been hardening all facilities in Russia against potential Ukrainian strikes or dispersing assets throughout the deep rear at scale without a pressing threat to do so. Persistent Ukrainian drone strikes into the Russian rear have threatened some of these facilities but not to the extent that would compel the Russian military command to consider the highly disruptive process of redeploying logistics and support systems at scale. Bringing Russia’s rear areas under threat would likely also prompt the Russian military command to make decisions about how to allocate its limited air defense and electronic warfare assets to protect a large geographic area.

The Russian military could seek to avoid such redeployments in the event of lifted Western restrictions by heavily concentrating air defense and electronic warfare assets to protect military and paramilitary facilities in the rear, although it is not clear if Russian forces have the available air defense assets to do so. Ukraine's drone strike campaign against Russia has illustrated that many rear areas within Russia have poor air defense coverage or none at all.[6] Russian forces would likely have to redeploy air defense and electronic warfare assets from all over Russia as well as from the frontline in Ukraine to generate the necessary protection coverage for rear areas in Russia within range of Western-provided weapons, possibly setting conditions for Ukraine to scale up aviation operations of its own along the frontline.  The lifting of the restrictions would therefore allow Ukraine to start striking significant Russian military targets while also immediately forcing a decision point on Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian military command about the allocation of limited air defense and electronic warfare assets and the configuration of Russian military logistics and support systems across the theater and the deep rear.

Recent successful Ukrainian strikes against Russian military targets within ATACMS range with Ukraine’s own domestically produced precision weapons demonstrate that Ukraine still has a requirement to conduct strikes that lifting the US restrictions could help fill.  Ukrainian forces have been able to develop deep-strike capability throughout two and a half years of war primarily with long-range strike drones and partially with modified Neptune anti-ship missiles. Ukrainian strike campaigns with domestically-produced weapons pushed the Black Sea Fleet (BSF) out of the western Black Sea and most recently, Ukrainian strikes against Russian oil refineries compelled the Kremlin to entertain negotiations for a possible moratorium against strikes on Ukraine's own energy infrastructure. Ukrainian forces conducted a drone strike against a Russian ammunition depot near Ostrogozhsk, Voronezh Oblast on August 24, sparking fires in the area and reportedly causing at least three explosions. [7] The Ukrainian Main Military Intelligence Directorate (GUR) reported that this large depot contained artillery and tank shells, small arms rounds, and surface-to-air missiles for the Russian Western Grouping of Forces (responsible for the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna line).[8] This facility is within range of ATACMS fired from Ukrainian-controlled areas of Kharkiv Oblast. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on August 24 that Ukraine has produced and successfully fielded the "Palyanytsia missile-drone" for the first time, and Ukrainian Strategic Industries Minister Oleksandr Kamyshin stated that Ukrainian forces used this "missile-drone" to hit an unspecified Russian military facility in occupied Ukraine.[9] Ukrainian officials have not provided details on the drone's range or technical specifications but did confirm that this weapon meets the technical specifications of both a drone and missile, and Zelensky called it a "new class of weapon."[10]

Some US officials assess that the Russian military will likely need to redeploy significant forces from Ukraine and/or operational reserves to repel Ukrainian forces from Russian territory.  The  New York Times  (NYT) reported on August 23 that unspecified US officials assess that Russia likely needs 15 to 20 brigades — at least 50,000 troops — to push Ukrainian forces out of Kursk Oblast.[11] The US assesses that the Russian military would likely need to redeploy significant elements from Ukraine or draw on operational reserves accumulated for its planned summer 2024 offensive effort to Kursk Oblast, or both, to successfully retake territory. ISW has already observed reports that the Russian military has redeployed elements of several Russian battalions, regiments, and brigades mostly from lower priority sectors of the frontline to Kursk Oblast.[12] The  Wall Street Journal  (WSJ) reported on August 17 that a source familiar with the Ukrainian operation in Kursk Oblast stated that Russian forces have redeployed roughly 5,000 personnel from unspecified areas in Ukraine to Kursk Oblast by August 14 and assessed that Russian forces would likely need over 20,000 properly trained personnel to retake territory in the area.[13]

Ukrainian forces continued offensive operations within their salient in Kursk Oblast on August 24, and neither Russian nor Ukrainian forces made any significant claimed advances.  Some milbloggers claimed that Russian forces recaptured Borki (southeast of Sudzha), but a prominent Kremlin-affiliated milblogger claimed that these reports are unconfirmed.[14] A milblogger claimed that fighting also continued southeast of Borki near Spalnoye, Krupets, and Kamyshnoye.[15] Russian milbloggers claimed that Ukrainian forces are attempting to bypass Korenevo by attacking near Olgovka and that Russian forces also repelled attacks near Komarovka (southwest of Korenevo) and Snagost.[16]   Russian milbloggers claimed that Ukrainian forces are attacking near Malaya Loknya (north of Sudzha) Cherkasskoye Porechnoye (northeast of Sudzha), and Russkaya Konopelka (east of Sudzha).[17] Elements of the Russian 810th Naval Infantry Brigade (Black Sea Fleet [BSF]), Chechen "Akhmat" Spetsnaz, and likely elements of the 30th Motorized Rifle Regiment (72nd Motorized Rifle Division, 44th Army Corps [AC], Leningrad Military District [LMD]) are reportedly defending Martynovka (northeast of Sudzha) from Ukrainian assaults with small infantry groups and armored vehicle support.[18] A Russian milblogger claimed that Russian forces repelled a Ukrainian sabotage and reconnaissance group near Kamyshevka (northeast of Malaya Loknya).[19]

Ukrainian open-source intelligence project  Frontelligence Insight  published satellite imagery on August 24 indicating that Russian forces are rapidly building field fortification defensive lines south and southwest of Kurchatov (west of Kursk City).[20] The satellite imagery captured on August 14 and 18 indicates that Russian forces rapidly developed and began reinforcing a trench line near Dolgiy (south of Kurchatov) between August 14 and 18.[21]  Frontelligence Insight  also reported that Russian forces may be extending these defensive lines into windbreaks that would conceal these defensive lines from view in satellite imagery.[22]

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on some of the objectives of the Ukrainian operation into Kursk Oblast on August 24.  Zelensky characterized the Ukrainian operation into Kursk Oblast as a spoiling attack that successfully prevented Russian forces from attempting to encircle part of Sumy Oblast and seize Sumy City.[23] A Russian attack into Sumy Oblast would likely have been part of the ongoing Russian theater-wide attempt to stretch Ukrainian forces across the entire frontline to pressure overall weakened Ukrainian defenses.[24] Russian forces attempted to divert and fix Ukrainian forces by launching an offensive operation into Kharkiv Oblast on May 10 while maintaining the existing tempo of offensive operations in eastern Ukraine, and the Russian military may have assessed that opening a new front in Sumy Oblast would further weaken Ukrainian forces defending throughout the theater.[25] A Russian attack into Sumy Oblast would have allowed Russian forces to maintain the theater-wide initiative, would have forced the Ukrainian military to defend in an additional sector of the frontline, and could have forced the Ukrainian military command to reassess their defensive prioritization. Ukrainian forces instead conducted a spoiling attack into Kursk Oblast and seized the battlefield initiative in this sector of the frontline.[26]

Ukraine and Russia conducted their first prisoner of war (POW) exchange since the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast.  Russian and Ukrainian sources announced on August 24 the 55th official POW exchange between the two countries since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.[27] The United Arab Emirates mediated the exchange that reportedly occurred at a border checkpoint in Belarus, which saw Russia and Ukraine return 115 POWs each.[28] The Ukrainian POWs primarily included servicemembers who fought in Mariupol, while Russian milbloggers claimed that all the Russian POWs were conscripts that the Ukrainian forces captured during the recent Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast.[29]

Key Takeaways:

• Ukrainian long-range strikes against Russian military targets within Russia’s rear are crucial for degrading Russian military capabilities throughout the theater, and the lifting of restrictions on Ukraine's use of Western-provided weapons would allow Ukrainian forces to strike a wide range of significant targets undergirding Russia’s war effort.
• An unnamed senior Biden administration national security official reportedly stated that Ukrainian strikes with Western-provided weapons against targets within Russia would not be effective because the Russian military has redeployed military aircraft from Russian airbases near Ukraine — but this assessment ignores how Russian forces are leveraging sanctuary space in deep rear areas within Russia for a wide array of infrastructure besides airfields to support military operations against Ukraine.
• The redeployment of Russian air assets from Russian air bases in range of ATACMS does not remove the utility of using ATACMS against other Russian military targets, however.
• Ukrainian forces do not have to strike every single Russian military and paramilitary object in Russia within range of Western-provided weapons to start generating significant operational pressures on the Russian military.
• Recent successful Ukrainian strikes against Russian military targets within ATACMS range with Ukraine’s own domestically produced precision weapons demonstrate that Ukraine still has a requirement to conduct strikes that lifting the US restrictions could help fill.
• Some US officials assess that the Russian military will likely need to redeploy significant forces from Ukraine and/or operational reserves to repel Ukrainian forces from Russian territory.
• Ukrainian forces continued offensive operations within their salient in Kursk Oblast on August 24, and neither Russian nor Ukrainian forces made any significant claimed advances.
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on some of the objectives of the Ukrainian operation into Kursk Oblast on August 24.
• Ukraine and Russia conducted their first prisoner of war (POW) exchange since the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast.
• Russian forces recently advanced near Toretsk and Pokrovsk.
• Kursk Oblast officials announced the creation of the BARS-Kursk volunteer detachment on August 24 and stated that the detachment will fight solely within Kursk Oblast.

We do not report in detail on Russian war crimes because these activities are well-covered in Western media and do not directly affect the military operations we are assessing and forecasting. We will continue to evaluate and report on the effects of these criminal activities on the Ukrainian military and the Ukrainian population and specifically on combat in Ukrainian urban areas. We utterly condemn Russian violations of the laws of armed conflict and the Geneva Conventions and crimes against humanity even though we do not describe them in these reports.

• Russian Main Effort — Eastern Ukraine (comprised of three subordinate main efforts)
• Russian Subordinate Main Effort #1 — Push Ukrainian forces back from the international border with Belgorod Oblast and approach to within tube artillery range of Kharkiv City
• Russian Subordinate Main Effort #2 — Capture the remainder of Luhansk Oblast and push westward into eastern Kharkiv Oblast and encircle northern Donetsk Oblast
• Russian Subordinate Main Effort #3 — Capture the entirety of Donetsk Oblast
• Russian Supporting Effort — Southern Axis
• Russian Air, Missile, and Drone Campaign
• Russian Mobilization and Force Generation Efforts
• Russian Technological Adaptations
• Activities in Russian-occupied areas
• Ukrainian Defense Industrial Base Efforts

Russian Information Operations and Narratives

• Significant Activity in Belarus

Russian Main Effort — Eastern Ukraine

Russian Subordinate Main Effort #1 — Kharkiv Oblast   ( Russian objective: Push Ukrainian forces back from the international border with Belgorod Oblast and approach to within tube artillery range of Kharkiv City)

Fighting continued north of Kharkiv City near Hlyboke and Lyptsi and northeast of Kharkiv City in Vovchansk on August 23 and 24, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline.[30] A Russian milblogger claimed that Ukrainian forces conducted counterattacks northwest of Vovchansk near Hatyshche and Ohirtseve but that Russian forces repelled the attacks.[31] The Ukrainian Kharkiv Group of Forces reported that Russian forces near Hlyboke have intensified drone reconnaissance operations and reinforced their forward positions.[32] Elements of the "Yary" heavy sniper group of the 155th Naval Infantry Brigade (Pacific Fleet, Eastern Military District [EMD]) reportedly continue operating in the Kharkiv direction.[33]

Russian Subordinate Main Effort #2 — Luhansk Oblast  (Russian objective: Capture the remainder of Luhansk Oblast and push westward into eastern Kharkiv Oblast and northern Donetsk Oblast)

Russian forces continued offensive operations on the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna line on August 24 but did not make confirmed advances. Russian forces continued attacks northeast of Kupyansk near Synkivka; east of Kupyansk near Petropavlivka; southeast of Kupyansk near Stepova Novoselivka, Kurylivka, and Stelmakhivka; northwest of Kreminna near Makiivka, Druzhelyubivka, Novosadove, and Nevske; and west of Kreminna near Terny and Torske on August 23 and 24.[34] A Russian milblogger claimed that Ukrainian forces conducted localized counterattacks near Novovodyane (northwest of Kreminna) and seized some positions in the past week, and a Ukrainian brigade operating on the Svatove-Kreminna line recently reported that it conducted a counterattack and advanced two kilometers deep to degrade the offensive capability of elements of the Russian 20th Combined Arms Army ([CAA], Moscow Military District [MMD]) operating in the area.[35]

Russian Subordinate Main Effort #3 — Donetsk Oblast  (Russian objective: Capture the entirety of Donetsk Oblast, the claimed territory of Russia’s proxies in Donbas)

Russian forces continued offensive operations in the Siversk direction on August 24, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline. The Ukrainian General Staff reported that Russian forces conducted offensive operations northeast of Siversk near Bilohorivka; east of Siversk near Verkhnokamyanske; and southeast of Siversk near Vyimka and Spirne on August 23 and 24.[36] Elements of the Russian ”Sumrak” Battalion are reportedly operating in the Siversk direction.[37]

Russian forces continued offensive operations near Chasiv Yar on August 24, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline. Russian milbloggers continued to claim that Russian forces advanced near Kalynivka (northeast of Chasiv Yar) and within Zhovtnevyi Microraion (eastern Chasiv Yar), but ISW has not observed confirmation of these claims.[38] Russian forces continued offensive operations northeast of Chasiv Yar near Kalynivka; east of Chasiv Yar near Ivanivske; south of Chasiv Yar near Stupochky; and near Chasiv Yar itself on August 23 and 24.[39] Elements of the Russian 98th Airborne (VDV) Division are operating near Chasiv Yar, and elements of the Russian 200th Motorized Rifle Brigade (14th Army Corps [AC], Leningrad Military District [LMD]) and Volunteer Corps are operating just north of Chasiv Yar in the Orlove forest area.[40]

Russian forces recently advanced near Toretsk amid continued offensive operations in the area on August 24. Geolocated footage published on August 21 indicates that Russian forces recently advanced to the eastern outskirts of Toretsk.[41] Russian forces conducted offensive operations near Toretsk; northeast of Toretsk near Dyliivka; and south of Toretsk near Nelipivka and Niu York on August 23 and 24.[42] Elements of the Russian 9th Motorized Rifle Brigade (1st Donetsk People's Republic [DNR] Army Corps [AC]) reportedly continue to operate near Niu York.[43]

Russian forces recently advanced near Pokrovsk amid continued Russian offensive operations in the area on August 24. Geolocated footage published on August 23 indicates that Russian forces advanced into eastern Karlivka (southeast of Pokrovsk) and northeast of Mykolaivka (southeast of Pokrovsk).[44] Additional geolocated footage published on August 24 indicates that Russian forces advanced in the southeastern outskirts of Novohrodivka (southeast of Pokrovsk).[45] Russian milbloggers claimed on August 24 that Russian forces advanced to and seized the Novohrodivka City Council in the center of the town.[46] Russian milbloggers claimed that Russian forces advanced east of Novohrodivka and south of Hrodivka (east of Pokrovsk) and seized Krasnyi Yar (immediately southwest of Hrodivka).[47] ISW has not observed confirmation of these claims, however. Russian forces continued offensive operations east of Pokrovsk near Vozdvyzhenka, Myrolyubivka, Zelene Pole, and Hrodivka and southeast of Pokrovsk near Kalynove, Krutyi Yar, Novohrodivka, Ptyche, Mykolaivka, Mykhailivka, and Karlivka on August 23 and 24.[48] Elements of the Russian 1st “Slavic” Brigade (1st DNR AC) are reportedly operating in the Pokrovsk direction.[49]

Fighting continued west of Donetsk City on August 24, but there were no confirmed changes to the front in this area. Fighting continued near Krasnohorivka and Heorhiivka on August 23 and 24.[50] Elements of the Russian 110th Motorized Rifle Brigade (1st DNR AC) are reportedly operating near Krasnohorivka.[51]

Russian forces continued offensive operations southwest of Donetsk City on August 24, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline. A Russian milblogger claimed on August 24 that Russian forces advanced in Kostyantynivka (southwest of Donetsk City), but ISW has not observed confirmation of this claim.[52] Russian forces continued offensive operations near Kostyantynivka, Vodyane, Katerynivka, and Vuhledar on August 23 and 24.[53]

Neither Russian nor Ukrainian sources reported ground attacks in the Donetsk-Zaporizhia Oblast border area on August 24. Elements of the Russian 11th Air Force and Air Defense Army (Eastern Military District [EMD] and Russian Aerospace Forces [VKS]) continue to operate in the Donetsk-Zaporizhia Oblast border area near Razliv (north of Velyka Novosilka).[54]

Russian Supporting Effort — Southern Axis  (Russian objective: Maintain frontline positions and secure rear areas against Ukrainian strikes)

Positional engagements continued in western Zaporizhia Oblast on August 24, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline. Fighting continued northwest of Robotyne near Novoandriivka and Shcherbaky on August 24.[55]

Neither Russian nor Ukrainian sources reported fighting in the Kherson direction on August 24.

Russian Air, Missile, and Drone Campaign  (Russian Objective: Target Ukrainian military and civilian infrastructure in the rear and on the frontline)

Russian forces conducted limited missile strikes against southern Ukraine on the night of August 23 to 24. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Russian forces launched four Kh-22 cruise missiles at Snake Island (northwestern Black Sea).[56] A Russian milblogger claimed that Russian forces launched an unspecified number of Onyx cruise missiles against Odesa Oblast, although ISW has not observed confirmation of this claim.[57]

Russian Mobilization and Force Generation Efforts  (Russian objective: Expand combat power without conducting general mobilization)

Kursk Oblast officials announced the creation of the BARS-Kursk volunteer detachment on August 24 and stated that the detachment will fight solely within Kursk Oblast.[58] The Kursk Oblast Administration published an advertisement for the volunteer detachment promising recruits that they will only perform tasks within Kursk Oblast, sign a six-month contract, and receive salaries similar to Russian personnel serving in Ukraine.[59] Russian officials likely aim to use the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast as a recruitment tool and may hope to offset pressures for additional redeployments to Kursk Oblast by committing newly generated forces to defensive operations.

Russian Technological Adaptations  (Russian objective: Introduce technological innovations to optimize systems for use in Ukraine)

Nothing significant to report.

Ukrainian Defense Industrial Efforts  (Ukrainian objective: Develop its defense industrial base to become more self-sufficient in cooperation with US, European, and international partners)

ISW is suspending publishing coverage of Ukrainian defense industrial efforts until further notice.

Activities in Russian-occupied areas  (Russian objective: Consolidate administrative control of annexed areas; forcibly integrate Ukrainian citizens into Russian sociocultural, economic, military, and governance systems)

ISW is not publishing coverage of activities in Russian-occupied areas today.

Significant activity in Belarus  (Russian efforts to increase its military presence in Belarus and further integrate Belarus into Russian-favorable frameworks and Wagner Group activity in Belarus)

Note: ISW does not receive any classified material from any source, uses only publicly available information, and draws extensively on Russian, Ukrainian, and Western reporting and social media as well as commercially available satellite imagery and other geospatial data as the basis for these reports. References to all sources used are provided in the endnotes of each update.

CORRECTION: This update was corrected on September 3, 2024, to change "30th Motorized Rifle Regiment (72nd Motorized Rifle Division, 22nd Army Corps [AC] , Leningrad Military District [LMD])" to "30th Motorized Rifle Regiment (72nd Motorized Rifle Division,  44th Army Corps [AC] , Leningrad Military District [LMD])." We regret the error.

[1] https://www.politico.com/news/2024/08/23/ukraine-biden-weapons-restrictions-00176210

[2] https://www.politico.com/news/2024/08/23/ukraine-biden-weapons-restrictions-00176210

[3] https://x.com/Tatarigami_UA/status/1816561523210191258 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-22-2024

[4] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-october-29; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-april-15-2024; https://www.understandingwar.org/sites/default/files/Feb%203%20Russian%20Offensive%20Campaign%20Assessment%20PDF.pdf; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-october-17-2023; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-february-28-2024 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-may-12-2024

[5] https://isw.pub/UkrWar101723 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-april-24-2024

[6] https://isw.pub/UkrWar071624 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar040324 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-march-30-2024 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-january-21-2024

[7] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-17-2024; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/special-edition-campaign-assessment-ukraine%E2%80%99s-strike-campaign-against-crimea; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/ukrainian-strikes-have-changed-russian-naval-operations-black-sea

[8] https://x.com/KOvsianyi/status/1827357077649416427; https://x.com/KOvsianyi/status/1827357081516519732; https://x.com/KOvsianyi/status/1827357084683251799; https://t.me/gusev_36/2670; https://t.me/gusev_36/2671; https://t.me/gusev_36/2673; https://t.me/kiber_boroshno/9690; https://armyinform dot com.ua/2024/08/24/voyiny-gur-mou-pidirvaly-u-rosiyi-sklad-boyeprypasiv-z-raketamy-i-snaryadamy/; https://t.me/DIUkraine/4305; https://t.me/DIUkraine/4306; https://gur.gov dot ua/content/sviatkovyi-hurkit-rozvidnyky-pidirvaly-velykyi-sklad-boieprypasiv-na-rosii.html; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02xgeUrWHNgSKBXncVbGZRvQ2CkXkrh71rMDY28APCBzjByVseT6jZb5LP4wink93Ml?__cft__[0]=AZVyVu7jWQQy6p1_9ouL9Dn47M9uJCcUqfUo5z8zT3y0n2pg35NFSyuTl5b7jVTx9Zi6lM7FNlk_19eSq8gRQkaGfZzA83wql-dI5bkp4Cpt9Rk-c_xfn9bJ2ohcEmpcP0f0DqFiCjsNXqicR1Tfq0s5l3mHvSv2Tnh_60IdsgRxtV-wWhX8s08mD15kzlwCwOBYBQAGM1MmPEVWel3hAt3I&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R

[9] https://t.me/DIUkraine/4305

[10] https://mil dot in.ua/uk/news/v-ukrayini-rozrobyly-raketu-dron-palyanytsya/; https://t.me/zalizni_zminy/2404; https://armyinform dot com.ua/2024/08/24/ukrayina-vpershe-zastosuvala-svoyu-novu-zbroyu-raketu-dron-palyanyczya/

[11] https://armyinform dot com.ua/2024/08/24/ukrayina-vpershe-zastosuvala-svoyu-novu-zbroyu-raketu-dron-palyanyczya/

[12] https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/23/us/politics/ukraine-incursion-russia-buffer-zone.html

[13] https://isw.pub/UkrWar082224 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar082024 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-18-2024

[14] https://www.wsj.com/world/behind-ukraines-russia-invasion-secrecy-speed-and-electronic-jamming-188fcc22 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-18-2024

[15] https://t.me/rybar/63017; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/14458; https://t.me/warhistoryalconafter/181131; https://t.me/motopatriot/26621

[16] https://t.me/dva_majors/50528

[17] https://t.me/RVvoenkor/75494; https://t.me/dva_majors/50528; https://t.me/rosich_russia/65683;

[18] https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58486; https://t.me/NgP_raZVedka/18806; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/14467; https://t.me/RVvoenkor/75494; https://t.me/dva_majors/50528

[19] https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58486; https://t.me/NgP_raZVedka/18806; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/14467; https://t.me/RVvoenkor/75494; https://t.me/dva_majors/50528

[20] https://t.me/rosich_russia/65683

[21] https://x.com/Tatarigami_UA/status/1827080166297973186

[22] https://x.com/Tatarigami_UA/status/1827080166297973186

[23] https://x.com/Tatarigami_UA/status/1827080166297973186

[24] https://t.me/uniannet/142968

[25] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/how-delays-western-aid-gave-russia-initiative-ukrainian-counteroffensive-kharkiv

[26] https://isw.pub/UkrWar051824

[27] https://understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-11-2024

[28] https://t.me/osirskiy/821; https://armyinform dot com.ua/2024/08/24/ukrayina-povernula-z-rosijskogo-polonu-115-zahysnykiv/; https://t.me/V_Zelenskiy_official/11439; https://t.me/tass_agency/268189 ; https://t.me/mod_russia/42539 ; https://t.me/mod_russia/42542 ; https://t.me/mod_russia/42547; https://t.me/tass_agency/268189 ; https://t.me/mod_russia/42539 ; https://t.me/mod_russia/42542 ;https://t.me/mod_russia/42547 ; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/14460; https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/moscow-kyiv-exchange-attacks-ukraine-marks-independence-anniversary-113119381

[29] https://t.me/NeoficialniyBeZsonoV/38989; https://t.me/tass_agency/268189 ; https://t.me/mod_russia/42539 ; https://t.me/mod_russia/42542 ; https://t.me/mod_russia/42547

[30] https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2024/08/24/world-ukraine-russia-prisoner-exchange/8731724513394/; https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-ukraine-set-swap-115-prisoners-uae-official-says-2024-08-24/; https://t.me/milinfolive/129112; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/14460 ;

[31] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RRyiXr6H2yQ1RVqCbjpu9EAVrDxUDwqAV77oQiQMcUL2SuUF3aWcgAVdEuj7VJ7fl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RKkfiJ587uhpvZVLY3BfywwCLda4MyydfGnUZcLK9tR5C1phuxSsSTpFbzqzEZEHl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0gkHzGM76Pkx2yDQouisV88cThoejgAMChLCLvQzVKhVFnEc6vvpx61JVryxV7Dwvl; https://t.me/otukharkiv/900; https://t.me/wargonzo/21722

[32] https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/14442

[33] https://t.me/otukharkiv/900

[34] https://t.me/milinfolive/129105

[35] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RKkfiJ587uhpvZVLY3BfywwCLda4MyydfGnUZcLK9tR5C1phuxSsSTpFbzqzEZEHl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RRyiXr6H2yQ1RVqCbjpu9EAVrDxUDwqAV77oQiQMcUL2SuUF3aWcgAVdEuj7VJ7fl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0gkHzGM76Pkx2yDQouisV88cThoejgAMChLCLvQzVKhVFnEc6vvpx61JVryxV7Dwvl; https://t.me/notes_veterans/19089

[36] https://t.me/notes_veterans/19089; https://suspilne dot media/kharkiv/819571-treta-sturmova-brigada-zaavila-pro-kontrnastup-na-harkivsini-so-vidomo/; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-22-2024

[37]https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RKkfiJ587uhpvZVLY3BfywwCLda4MyydfGnUZcLK9tR5C1phuxSsSTpFbzqzEZEHl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RRyiXr6H2yQ1RVqCbjpu9EAVrDxUDwqAV77oQiQMcUL2SuUF3aWcgAVdEuj7VJ7fl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0gkHzGM76Pkx2yDQouisV88cThoejgAMChLCLvQzVKhVFnEc6vvpx61JVryxV7Dwvl

[38] https://t.me/wargonzo/21734

[39] https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/14465; https://t.me/motopatriot/26633

[40]https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RKkfiJ587uhpvZVLY3BfywwCLda4MyydfGnUZcLK9tR5C1phuxSsSTpFbzqzEZEHl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RRyiXr6H2yQ1RVqCbjpu9EAVrDxUDwqAV77oQiQMcUL2SuUF3aWcgAVdEuj7VJ7fl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0gkHzGM76Pkx2yDQouisV88cThoejgAMChLCLvQzVKhVFnEc6vvpx61JVryxV7Dwvl

[41] https://t.me/rusich_army/16737; https://t.me/milinfolive/129125

[42] https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=946360087257909; https://x.com/AudaxonX/status/1827366209945301199; https://t.me/creamy_caprice/6508

[43]https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RKkfiJ587uhpvZVLY3BfywwCLda4MyydfGnUZcLK9tR5C1phuxSsSTpFbzqzEZEHl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RRyiXr6H2yQ1RVqCbjpu9EAVrDxUDwqAV77oQiQMcUL2SuUF3aWcgAVdEuj7VJ7fl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0gkHzGM76Pkx2yDQouisV88cThoejgAMChLCLvQzVKhVFnEc6vvpx61JVryxV7Dwvl

[44] ttps://t.me/wargonzo/21728;

[45] https://t.me/creamy_caprice/6505; https://t.me/Kyiv11obmp/71; https://t.me/jagers68/99; https://x.com/Bielitzling/status/1827143109441884567; https://t.me/creamy_caprice/6507

[46] https://x.com/Bielitzling/status/1827403444145061954; https://t.me/shershni68/212

[47] https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58491;

[48] https://t.me/z_arhiv/27759; https://t.me/divgen/53262; https://t.me/shershni68/212; https://x.com/Bielitzling/status/1827403444145061954 ; https://t.me/boris_rozhin/134704 ; https://t.me/epoddubny/20831

[49] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RKkfiJ587uhpvZVLY3BfywwCLda4MyydfGnUZcLK9tR5C1phuxSsSTpFbzqzEZEHl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RRyiXr6H2yQ1RVqCbjpu9EAVrDxUDwqAV77oQiQMcUL2SuUF3aWcgAVdEuj7VJ7fl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0gkHzGM76Pkx2yDQouisV88cThoejgAMChLCLvQzVKhVFnEc6vvpx61JVryxV7Dwvl

[50] https://t.me/mod_russia/42544

[51]https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RKkfiJ587uhpvZVLY3BfywwCLda4MyydfGnUZcLK9tR5C1phuxSsSTpFbzqzEZEHl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RRyiXr6H2yQ1RVqCbjpu9EAVrDxUDwqAV77oQiQMcUL2SuUF3aWcgAVdEuj7VJ7fl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0gkHzGM76Pkx2yDQouisV88cThoejgAMChLCLvQzVKhVFnEc6vvpx61JVryxV7Dwvl

[52] https://t.me/boris_rozhin/134723

[53] https://t.me/wargonzo/21722

[54]https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RKkfiJ587uhpvZVLY3BfywwCLda4MyydfGnUZcLK9tR5C1phuxSsSTpFbzqzEZEHl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RRyiXr6H2yQ1RVqCbjpu9EAVrDxUDwqAV77oQiQMcUL2SuUF3aWcgAVdEuj7VJ7fl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0gkHzGM76Pkx2yDQouisV88cThoejgAMChLCLvQzVKhVFnEc6vvpx61JVryxV7Dwvl

[55] https://t.me/voin_dv/10438

[56] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0RKkfiJ587uhpvZVLY3BfywwCLda4MyydfGnUZcLK9tR5C1phuxSsSTpFbzqzEZEHl ; https://t.me/wargonzo/21722

[57] https://t.me/kpszsu/18152

[58] https://t.me/dva_majors/50548

[59] https://t.me/astrapress/62667 ; https://t.me/horizontal_russia/39367

Applications Being Accepted for 2022 Research Science Institute

McLean, VA   (November 15, 2021) –  The Center for Excellence in Education (CEE) is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for its 2022 Research Science Institute (RSI), which is collaboratively sponsored with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) on its campus or virtually.

RSI ’22 will be in session from June 26 to August 6, 2022. It will bring together top U.S. and international students who have completed comparable to three years of high school for an intensive, six-week program that provides students with the opportunity to conduct original, cutting-edge, science,  technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) research. RSI is cost-free for students to attend.

Participants experience the entire research cycle from start to finish. They read the most current literature in their field, draft and execute a detailed research plan, and deliver conference-style oral and written reports on their findings.

During the first week of RSI, students participate in intensive STEM classes with accomplished professors. The heart of RSI is the five-week research internship where students conduct individual projects under the tutelage scientists and researchers.

To apply, visit https://www.cee.org/apply-rsi . The deadline for U.S. domestic student applications is January 14, 2022. The deadline for international student applications is February 11, 2022.

About the Center for Excellence in Education

The Center for Excellence in Education (CEE) was founded in 1983 by the late Admiral H.G. Rickover and Joann P. DiGennaro, President of the Center. The Center’s mission is to nurture high school and university scholars to careers of excellence and leadership in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and to encourage collaboration between and among scientific and technological leaders in the global community. CEE sponsors the Research Science Institute (RSI), the USA Biolympiad (USABO), and the Teacher Enrichment Program (TEP). Visit CEE’s website, https://www.cee.org .

Media Contact:

Tom Flavell,   (703) 448-9062 ext. 237

Follow CEE on Twitter @CEE1983