FAQs - Prospective Students
What is FinDS?
FinDS is summer program that covers the mathematical foundations of Data Science.
Who may attend FinDS?
Incoming 10th, 11th, and 12th graders.
When and where is it held?
The FinDS Beginner Program will be held July 22nd - August 9th at the UPenn campus (and online)
Monday-Friday from 9 am - 4 pm (EST)
The FinDS Advanced Program will be held June 17th - July 2nd at the UC San Diego campus (and online)
Monday-Friday from 1 pm - 5 pm (PST)
How much does it cost to attend FinDS?
Fees
All accepted students will need to pay a $100 application fee. (The fee and tuition payment request will be sent with the acceptance email.)
Beginner Program Tuition
$750 (3 weeks)
$500 (2 weeks)
Advanced Program Tuition
$800
Financial assistance may be available based on need. We also look for a commitment to aspire and an eagerness to learn.
Is financial assistance available?
Financial assistance may be available to those in need.
When will I be notified about whether or not I have been accepted into the program?
We will start sending admission notifications starting mid-late May. Apply early!
Is there a minimum GPA to be accepted into FinDS?
No.
Are there prerequisites for the courses?
High school Algebra (Algebra II) for the FinDS Beginner's Program. The FinDS Advanced program is suitable for those who have participated in FinDS Beginners or equivalent programs, covering advanced topics in Algorithms and Machine Learning.
If you are unsure of which course you should apply to, we suggest you apply to both. We will evaluate your performance and determine the best course of action.
What about Teacher Recommendations? How does it work?
You will need at least 2 teacher recommendation letters. 1 letter must be from a STEM teacher. Once you provide your teachers' emails in the online application form, we will contact your teachers directly and let them know we are requesting a recommendation letter for you. Please let your teachers know they should expect an email from (Finds@ucsd.edu) requesting the recommendation. Letters of recommendation must be sent in by the application deadline.
What does a sample schedule look like for FinDS In-Person Day Only?
2 hours of lecture + 2-3 hours of problem-solving.
What does a sample schedule look like for FinDS Online Only?
2 hours of lecture + 2-3 hours of problem-solving.
How many students will attend the program?
We will be accepting 25 students for the in-person experience and up to 50 students for the virtual experience.
Who are the FinDS Faculty and Staff?
At UPenn, Dr. Rajiv Gandhi is the main faculty member. He will be supported by PhD students and undergraduate students.
At UC San Diego, Barna Saha is the main faculty member. She will be supported by PhD students and undergraduate students.
Is high school or college credit available for FinDS attendance?
No.
May I attend FinDS more than once?
Yes, if you've completed the beginner's program we encourage you to apply for the advanced program.
What do I do if I have more questions?
Please contact: FinDS@ucsd.edu