SPARK Eligibility
SPARK can only accept students who are currently enrolled in an undergraduate program. Recent college graduates, with a bachelor’s degree or above, are not eligible.
Students do not need to have a specific major to apply, but most of the successful applicants come from majors in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).
There is no minimum GPA to apply, however, our program is extremely competitive. Most have a minimum of a "B" average, but it is not required to apply.
Students must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen/resident in order to apply. International students with F-type visas are not eligible for the stipend. We recommend they pursue other volunteer opportunities at Moffitt.
The SPARK program does not arrange or fund housing for the selected participants. For this reason, most of our successful applicants are local or have local family. You do not have to indicate the local address at the time of the application if you are still in the process of arranging it, but it must be provided in the case of acceptance.
The selection of candidates will be based on aptitude and interest in research demonstrated through relevant experience, written essay, letters of recommendation, and academic performance.
Due to the volume of applications, it is not possible to provide feedback to those individuals who are not selected. Admission decisions will not be discussed with parents.
Timeline for the 2024 cycle:
Application opens: Jan. 2, 2024
Application deadline: Feb. 13, 2024
Applicants are notified of the decision by April 2024
Moffitt Cancer Center is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for the program without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, or protected veteran or disabled status. We seek candidates whose skills, and personal and professional experience, have prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence.