Virginia Earth System Science Scholars (VESSS)
The Virginia Earth System Science Scholars (VESSS) is a free STEM learning program for Virginia high school juniors and seniors that explores climate change and Earth systems through NASA satellite missions. Scholars complete seven online modules and a capstone project during the school year, with top-performing students selected for a seven-day residential summer academy at NASA Langley Research Center. Participants can also earn up to five free, transferable dual-enrollment college credits.
Program details
- Deadline
- Oct 26, 2026
- Grade level
- Grades 11–12
- Program type
- Academic year program
- Duration
- School year online course (modules every 2 weeks starting December) plus 7-day summer academy
- Attendance
- Residential
Eligibility
Must be a Virginia resident enrolled as a high school junior or senior (11th or 12th grade) with a minimum 2.7 GPA. Must be a U.S. citizen to attend the summer academy at NASA Langley Research Center (permanent residents may participate in the online course).
Costs and support
- Cost
- Free
- Financial aid
- Program is free
- Stipend
- Not specified
- Contact program
- jpenland@odu.edu
Student projects
No student projects are linked to this opportunity yet.
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