Zeal Labs

Admissions

1. Application Process

Zeal Labs offers programs during both summer and winter breaks. The application system opens in early spring for the summer program and in early fall for the winter program. Program dates will be updated on this website and through our official WeChat account. We look forward to reading your applications and exploring the world of scientific research together during the upcoming programs!

Step 1. Online Application

To complete the online application process, please fill out the application form including the following information: the biographical information, the academic background, and two essays. Your application will only be considered complete after you make the application fee payment (229 CNY for 2025 Summer Program – non refundable) in our online application system.

Step 2. Application Review

The admissions committee will conduct an initial review of all complete online applications. Short-listed applicants will receive email invitations to chat with a member of Zeal Labs’ standing board in virtual interviews.

Step 3. Online Interview

Interviews will be conducted virtually. The interview will last 30 minutes, and applicants will be asked by a standing board member questions both in English and Mandarin. It is the duty of applicants to check their mailboxes regularly and sign up for the virtual interview.

Step 4. Notification of Results

Applicants will receive a notification of the results via email within ten working days after the date of the interview.

2. Eligibility

To be eligible for consideration of admissions, candidates must meet the following criteria:

The applicant is currently enrolled in a high school (from grades 9 to grade 12).
The applicant has no other commitments (e.g. summer schools, standardized test courses) throughout the program duration he or she is applying to.
The applicant should have demonstrated strong academic record in science.
The applicant should possess good communication skills, including proficiency in both written and spoken English.

Please visit Academic Programs or Apply for more information.

3. FAQs

When and where will Zeal Labs take place?

Zeal Labs runs programs every winter and summer break. We have six campuses, based in Beijing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Xi'an, Shenzhen, and Zhuhai. Our application system for the upcoming program normally opens four months before the start of the program. If you are interested in receiving updates of Zeal Labs, you can subscribe to our official WeChat account by searching "Zeal Labs'.

What kind of students Zeal Labs is looking for?

Zeal Labs is looking for students who are curious about the physical world, passionate about experimental sciences, and interested in what real-world science research is like. We value students who are intellectually curious, resilient, and willing to take initiatives.

How will Zeal Labs help me in my future studies?

Zeal Labs offers an immersive experience in real-world science research, allowing students to work alongside scientists and explore cutting-edge topics. It provides a series of rigorous academic training and expands students' knowledge by exposing them to new perspectives on subjects of interest. Additionally, Zeal Labs facilitates self-exploration, helping students gain insights into their interests and career paths in experimental science.

How can I prepare for Zeal Labs?

Zeal Labs will be academically challenging for most of our students. We have prepared a series of video courses to better prepare our students for the program. Students are obliged to complete these courses before setting their feet in the lab.

Which lab will I be assigned to? What is my research topic?

To protect the privacy of our academic partners, information about the lab will not be released until students have signed program contracts and confidentiality agreements. In addition, in an in-progress research project, no one will be able to know what exactly he or she will be doing in a few weeks. Uncertainty is an important part of the nature of science research. Therefore, we are only able to communicate exact project information two weeks before the start of the program. Yet, something certain is that we guarantee students will be assigned to a research field (e.g. physics, chemistry, or biology) per their offer emails.

What will my schedule be like during the program?

There exists no fixed schedule for Zeal Labs students. After all, Zeal Labs is not a course-based program. Our students will be placed in different labs, which have different schedules. For example, some do 10-6, whereas others do 9-5; some work six days a week, whereas others stick to 5 days. During the program, we require students to comply with a set schedule of labs to which they are assigned. It is expected that some of the students will work overtime on some days: students may need to wait for a reaction to complete before leaving the lab, and most research groups have their weekly meetings in the evenings or over the weekend. While there is no fixed schedule, we encourage every student to work out a study plan with his or her research mentor at the beginning of the program.

I am not a commuting student. Will you arrange accommodation for all of us?

Yes. We have a list of recommended hotels for boarding students. The list will be evaluated and updated every year. We will book rooms for students at our negotiated prices. Written consent from guardians is required for students to opt out of appointed hotels.Yet, something certain is that we guarantee students will be assigned to a research field (e.g. physics, chemistry, or biology) per their offer emails.

How does Zeal Labs ensure the safety of participating students?

Student safety is our paramount concern.Every student is required to complete a video course on lab safety before he or she enters the program. In addition, Zeal Labs organizers will purchase PPE (e.g. lab coats and goggles) and accident insurance for students. Our emergency contact will assist students in need.