How to Get Into the Ross Mathematics Program

Submit an application that stands out—and gets you accepted.

If you’re a high-school student who lives and breathes math—someone who doesn’t just want to do math, but who wants to think about it deeply (think 24/7)—then the Ross Mathematics Program might be one of the most transformative experiences you can pursue this summer.

Ross isn’t your typical “summer camp.” It’s an immersive, residential six-week environment where students are guided to explore mathematical thinking itself—to ask questions no one’s asked before, to wrestle with tough problem sets, and to build confidence in independent, rigorous mathematical reasoning. Plus, it's beloved by top colleges and other elite summer programs. My Ivy Education's Ross alumni have gone on to programs like MIT's Research Science Institute, which has a whopping 3% acceptance rate, as well as Ivy Leagues, Stanford, MIT, Caltech, and other top-ranked STEM universities.

Because Ross is rigorous and selective, with a 15% acceptance rate back in 2023 (so even lower now!), understanding what it is, what the admissions committee cares about, and how to prepare strategically can make all the difference.

What Is the Ross Mathematics Program?

The Ross Program is a six-week residential summer experience designed specifically for motivated pre-college students who want to explore mathematics at a deep level.

Instead of focusing on broad topics or competition math, Ross centers on foundational mathematical thinking—especially number theory—and guides students to discover ideas through problem solving, proof writing, and persistent exploration.

This isn’t a place where you sit passively in lecture after lecture. Most students spend their waking hours wrestling meaningfully with challenging questions, collaborating with peers, and discussing ideas with instructors.

Why Ross Matters (Beyond the Resume)

Yes, Ross is respected by selective colleges—but that’s only part of the story. What makes Ross powerful is the experience itself:

• You’ll learn how to think like a mathematician, not just how to answer textbook questions.

• You’ll develop persistence and intellectual independence—skills that enrich everything from STEM research to creative problem solving in any field.

• You’ll join a community of peers who challenge and inspire you, often forming friendships and collaborations that last long after the program ends.

  
  

If you’ve ever felt held back by traditional curricula or eager for more depth than school courses provide, Ross can be a place where your curiosity is taken seriously.

Who Should Apply?

Ross isn’t for every student—and that’s okay. The students who thrive most tend to share a few qualities:

• A genuine curiosity about mathematical ideas

• Comfort with ambiguity and challenge

• Persistence in the face of difficult problems

• A readiness to work collaboratively and independently

  
  

Most students fall in the 15–18 years old range, though extremely prepared younger students have participated. We should know—we've helped some of them get in.

Importantly, Ross isn’t a math contest prep program like some summer camps. Instead, its focus on depth over breadth means that students who enjoy sustained thinking and proof-based problem solving often do best.

The Application: What You Need to Know

Here’s what the Ross application generally includes:

• Problem sets: Challenging math problems that give the admissions team a sense of how you think

• Short essays: Reflections on your interests, goals, and why you want Ross

• A teacher recommendation: Ideally from someone who can speak to your mathematical curiosity

• Transcript: Your academic record

• Video or personal statement: A chance to show who you are beyond numbers
  

The competitive nature of Ross means that strong mathematical work on the problem sets matters deeply—it’s not enough to simply meet the minimum requirements.

How to Prepare Your Best Application

1. Start Early

Don’t wait until the week before the deadline. Looking at sample problem sets and reflecting on what excites you about math will build confidence and clarity.

2. Do the Problems Thoughtfully

Ross problem sets aren’t about speed—they’re about depth. Show your reasoning clearly, justify your steps rigorously, and let your work reflect patience and care.

3. Tell Your Story

Use your essays and videos to communicate your authentic love for math—not just what you’ve achieved but why you think and feel the way you do. What questions keep you up at night? What problems made you think differently?

4. Choose the Right Recommender

A teacher who can speak to your curiosity, resilience, and intellectual growth—even in small classroom moments—will make your application more compelling.

5. Be Ready to Learn

Ross admissions look for students who don’t just know math but want to grow in it. That mindset—of humility, curiosity, and persistent effort—will set you apart.

Final Thoughts

Getting into the Ross Mathematics Program isn’t about perfection. It’s about preparedness, curiosity, and the courage to dive into difficult ideas without knowing the answer upfront.

Whether you’re considering a future in pure math, science, engineering, or any field that values clear, creative thinking, Ross offers an intense, rewarding environment where you can grow not just as a student—but as a thinker.

If you want help preparing your application, polishing your essays, or practicing problem-solving strategies, that’s exactly what we specialize in—and we’d love to support you. Ready to take the next step? Let’s talk. Click the button below to schedule a free consultation to discuss how we can help you get in.

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