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Frequently Asked Questions

Please visit the Application Information section of the website for application instructions.

Who is eligible to apply?

9th grade: Current MNPS 8th graders who will attend MNPS high schools or students who are planning to attend MNPS high schools in 9th grade are eligible to apply. We encourage students with a strong interest in science and math to apply.

Are students who live in Davidson County and attend private schools eligible?

No, however, they may be eligible to participate in the Research Internship Program offered through the Vanderbilt Center for Science Outreach.

Are students who live outside of Nashville-Davidson County area eligible?

Only if they are planning to move and attend an MNPS high school during the year for which they are applying.

When you say 8th grade, is that for rising 8th graders (current 7th graders), or rising 9th graders (current 8th graders)?

The School for Science and Math is for high school students. The applicants for next year would be current 8th graders going into 9th grade at a Metro Nashville Public high school in the fall of next school year.

Should we send in the recommendation forms together or do we provide each teacher/recommender with an addressed, stamped envelope?

Letters are to be turned in separately unless teachers/recommenders cannot or do not want to do so. In the latter case, ask the recommender to place the letter in an envelope, seal it, and sign across the seal. Then, you may send the sealed envelope to our office through the mail or in person.

Do recommendations have to come from current math & science teachers or can I ask my science teacher from last year?

Recommendations should reflect the most current information available. In cases where students have only had their 8th grade science or math teacher for a few weeks, we will accept recommendations from 7th grade math or science teachers. Teachers from before 7th grade are not acceptable. If students are unable to obtain two recommendations from both 7th or 8th grade science and math teachers, they may ask an 8th grade teacher in a different subject (English, social studies).

How many students will you accept?

We will accept 25 students per incoming 9th grade class.