STEP at Fordham University

It’s never too early to start thinking about college and planning your career!

The Fordham Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) is an academic enrichment program designed to prepare underrepresented and economically disadvantaged junior high and high school students (grades 7-12) for college and careers in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields, health careers, and licensed professions, like accounting, law, psychology, social work among other licensed fields.

Since its inception in 1986, STEP has provided a structured, challenging curriculum aimed at fostering academic excellence and career readiness. The program is conducted at Fordham University's Rose Hill campus in the Bronx and Lincoln Center campus in Manhattan, with additional activities taking place at affiliated local schools and partner sites.

Take the Next STEP to Success! 

  • College Ready: STEP has a 100% college acceptance rate.
  • Exclusive Access: Gain access to Fordham University's campus during our summer and academic year programs.
  • Experienced Professionals: Benefit from instruction by Fordham’s esteemed faculty, graduate students, and experienced local high school teachers.
  • Inspiring Community: Surround yourself with a community of driven, like minded and motivated individuals who share a passion for learning and growth. 
  • Collegiate Pipeline Programs: Experience a smooth transition to the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) at Fordham and other New York state colleges with CSTEP programs.

 STEP Services

  • Enrichment classes and laboratories: Advanced work in STEM subjects (mathematics, science, computer science) and English.
  • Special lectures and workshops: Introductions to specialized fields in the health professions, computer science, engineering, law, and others.
  • Tutorials and study groups: Students may receive individual and group tutorials in all subjects.
  • Research: Opportunities to conduct scientific research and present findings to a panel of experts.
  • Career activities: Guest speakers, field trips, career testing, and conferences.
  • College counseling and support: Preparation for the SAT, academic, career, and financial aid support. Students receive individualized counseling for the college and high school selection process.
  • Cultural and recreational activities: Classroom academics are enhanced by field trips to colleges and universities, museums, research facilities, theaters, and other cultural institutions.

  • New York State resident students in grades 7 to 12 must meet one of two eligibility criteria to be considered for the Fordham Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP). 

    • Belong to a minority group underrepresented in scientific, technical, health-related and licensed professions.
      • The state of New York has designated Black/African Americans, Hispanics/Latinxs, Native American Indians, and Alaskan Natives as members of such groups.

    OR

    • Meet the income eligibility requirements established by the state of New York if the applicant student is not a member of an underrepresented minority group.
      • The gross family income limits for applicants who do not belong to an underrepresented minority group are listed in this income eligibility table. 

    Contact Fordham STEP for more information.

    • Is there an application fee?
      • No, there are no fees to apply to the STEP Program.
    • Is there a cost to participate in the program?
      • Yes, a registration fee of $150.00, along with an annual $20.00 parent association fee for accepted students per semester. Scholarships are available for families upon request. Families are encouraged to inquire with STEP staff for the scholarship application. 
    • Are there other opportunities available for my child once they enroll as a STEP Scholar?
      • Yes, students have access to the following program components
        • Priority seating for continuing students
        • Priority seating in Kaplan SAT Program
        • Data Science/Business Analytics Internship
        • Research Program with university faculty
        • Fordham University college credit bearing course
    • How are the days structured during the STEP Academic Year Program?
      • Saturdays Only- scholars will attend morning math and science classes followed by an elective class in the afternoon.
    • Are there other academic offerings if I am not taking a math or science class in the summer or academic year?
      • Yes, for students who either are not taking a math/science class in the summer or academic year or are taking a math/science class at school that STEP does not offer, there will be a course available for those students.
    • What is the attendance policy?
      • Due to the limited number of sessions, STEP scholars are required to be present for all sessions and classes. There is a limit of 2 excused absences before membership in program is jeopardized. 

  • Thank you for your interest in the Fordham University STEP Program. To complete the application in one sitting, please have the following prepared in advance:

    • A scanned copy of your most recent report card for upload (PDF, Word, Image/Picture are acceptable).
    • The complete email address of a math or science teacher that will complete a recommendation form on your behalf.
    • Two short responses to the questions below.  Each response should be a minimum of 150 and no more than 500 words.
      1. What is the biggest problem that you see in your community/neighborhood? How would you solve it?
      2. What do you hope to gain from being a part of the Fordham STEP Program?
    • Resume

    Note: Parents will have to provide an electronic signature to verify the facts of the commitment to the STEP program.

Are you an undergraduate student at Fordham University ? Check out our CSTEP Program.