Resources — ICSI Summit

Upcoming Webinars

Free sessions to get you started.

Open to all students and parents. Click any session to register.

APR28

What students will build in 6 Weeks at ICSI-2026

8:30 PM - 9:00 PM EST

MAY5

From Ideas to Project: How students build something meaningful in 6 weeks

8:30 PM - 9:00 PM EST

MAY21

How to pick a Project that matters (and stick with it)

8:30 PM - 9:00 PM EST

MAY28

Inside ICSI: how students build, refine and present their work in 6 weeks

8:30 PM - 9:00 PM EST

JUN5

From Project to Portfolio: How students turn their work into something that stands out

8:30 PM - 9:00 PM EST

JUN12

Is ICSI the right fit for my child? A webinar for parents and guardians

8:30 PM - 9:00 PM EST

Resources

Resources for Participants

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Abstract Template

Download the official abstract format used for submissions.

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Presentation Templates

Slide structure guidelines used during showcase preparation.

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Headshot guidelines

Recommended size, background tips, and formatting requirements.

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Pitch/stage presentation template

Template to help structure and deliver your pitch or stage presentation effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions?

What exactly is ICSI?

ICSI is a structured program where students research a real problem, develop a solution, and present their work at a live showcase to industry professionals, mentors, and peers. It includes 6 weeks of virtual workshops followed by an in-person Summit Day.

My child has never done research. Is this too advanced?

Not at all. Most students start with zero research experience. The program begins from the fundamentals: what research means, how to pick a topic, how to structure an argument. By the showcase, they'll present with confidence.

How is this different from a science fair?

Science fairs are one-off submissions. ICSI is a structured journey — 6 weeks of skill-building, mentorship, and preparation before the showcase. Students develop research methodology, writing, presentation, and networking skills that transfer to college and careers.

What are the two tracks?

Track 1 (Build + Showcase) is the full 6-week immersion where students develop a new project from scratch. Track 2 (Showcase Only) is for students who already have meaningful work and want to present it at the Summit, subject to review. All students in both tracks also get to attend the workshops.

Will everyone present on stage?

Shortlisted participants from both tracks present on the main stage. All other participants present in a trade-show style format at the Summit, with direct interaction with judges, mentors, and attendees. Both formats are meaningful.

Will this help with college applications?

Yes. Students finish with a completed project, published abstract, real presentation experience, and mentorship connections. Many ICSI alumni reference their project in college essays and applications.

Is there financial aid?

Yes. Need-based support is available. No student should be excluded due to cost. Contact us to learn more.

What's the time commitment?

During the 6-week immersion (June 19 – July 31), expect about 3–5 hours per week: one live virtual workshop session plus independent project work. The Summit is a single day — August 29, 2026, 11 AM – 4 PM at Maryland.