STEP at CUNY SLU: Advancing Equity Through Science and Technology

Most CAP activities happen at your high school, led in partnership with your school’s liaison. Some learning experiences, like lab visits or college exploration may take place at CUNY SLU’s Midtown campus (25 W 43rd St) or off-site field trip locations.

Applications will be due in Winter 2026. Submit your materials by the deadline so your school liaison and the SLU team have time to review and place accepted students before programming begins. (Dates may be adjusted if a school’s calendar changes.)

You’ll receive your acceptance status from your high school liaison. Accepted students will be invited to a required orientation that covers expectations, schedules, and how to access support. You’ll also learn how space-limited opportunities (like SLU credit-bearing courses, specialized seminars, and field trips) are awarded on a merit basis, prioritizing students who engage consistently, meet deadlines, and produce strong work.

Programs run on weekdays after regular classes. Each partner high school sets its own schedule to align with bell times, space, and staff availability; your liaison will share the exact days and times.

Plan for about 6 hours per week, which typically includes after-school sessions plus short assignments, research tasks, and occasional events or trips.

Yes. CAP is cohort-based and builds skills week by week. Attendance and on-time arrival are required for all scheduled activities. Repeated absences can affect your standing in the program and your eligibility for space-limited opportunities.

Yes. Many students balance CAP with teams, clubs, jobs, and family responsibilities. Tell your liaison about conflicts early so we can help you map out a workable plan. Consistent attendance remains essential.

Yes. Expect short readings, reflections, skills practice (like data or research exercises), and steady progress on your culminating research project. Assignments are designed to support what you’re learning in sessions.

Not individually. The curriculum is sequenced to build critical thinking, research, and analysis skills leading to your completed research project. Schools may add occasional workshops or guest sessions based on student interest.

Some students will. Beginning in Year 2, up to 40 students per year will be selected for an SLU credit-bearing course, based on merit (coursework performance, engagement, and readiness) and space. Students must remain in good standing and meet any prerequisites.

Students who complete program requirements earn a Credly digital badge you can add to resumes, social profiles, and college applications. We are not offering college certificates at this time.

Yes. CAP at SLU is a two-year program. Most students enter as juniors and continue through senior year. Seniors who join in Year 1 follow an abbreviated/modified plan tailored to their timeline.

Your high school liaison is the main contact and will share updates by email, phone, or text. Families are invited to a required orientation each year and receive semester progress updates. SLU also hosts family-friendly events and resources to support student success.

Yes, orientation is required. Schools or SLU may schedule additional meetings or events (such as showcases, college info sessions, or trip briefings) where family participation is encouraged.

Encourage consistent attendance, help your child manage their schedule, and check in on assignments or research project progress. Attending family events and staying in touch with the liaison can also make a big difference.

Most sessions are held at your child’s school. For special events or field trips, transportation will be provided or coordinated by the program.

Snacks may be provided for after-school sessions. For field trips or all-day events, lunch will either be provided or students will be asked to bring one.

Refer students through your school’s CAP liaison (listed on the program page) or contact the SLU CAP/STEP team at step@slu.cuny.edu / 646-313-8300 for assistance.

Absolutely. We welcome collaboration on research topics, classroom connections, guest speaking, and student showcases. Please reach out to your liaison or the SLU CAP/STEP team to coordinate.

Yes. The SLU team can visit your school to introduce the program, explain eligibility, and help with recruitment.

CAP offers rigorous, equity-focused enrichment that supports student engagement, academic skills, and college readiness, while also strengthening school-community-university connections.