Dates and Deadlines for Alumni Returning to Mathcamp 2026

We have not yet finalized the sign-up timeline for Mathcamp 2026, but the expected calendar is described below. Note that in the past the registation deadline for returning campers has been in early May, but it will now be in mid-April!

Step 1: Express interest.

Sign-ups typically open early February and last until the middle of March.

During this window, you can log into https://appsys.mathcamp.org/ and fill out a very short form indicating that you might be interested in returning to camp this summer.

Important note: If you would like to apply for Financial Aid for Mathcamp 2026, please complete the financial aid application by during this window as well. We will make decisions right away (within the following week) so that you can use that information in Step 2.

Step 2: Commitment.

Commitment typically opens shortly after sign-ups end and lasts until the end of March.

During this window, you press one of these buttons (at https://appsys.mathcamp.org/, or with the links in the email we'll send you):

• Yes, I definitely plan to come, and, if there is space for me, I'm ready to complete registration!
• No, I'm definitely making other plans.
• Maybe. My summer plans are TBA: I'm interested in returning, but I might also make other plans.

Step 3: Counting.

The day after commitment closes, we do the headcount for the summer. If N ≤ 55, then we terminate this algorithm and assign spots to everybody who claimed their spot; we'll also follow up with each alum to let them know that their spot is confirmed. If N ≥ 56, we move on to Step 4.

Step 4: If need be, we ask some alums to take the summer off.

On this counting day, we'll follow up with all of the alums who do have confirmed spots to let everybody know that their place for the summer is locked in.

If too many alums definitely want to come to camp, we will (systematically and uniformly) ask some alums to take a summer off. We'll ask the members of Group 1, and if need be, Group 2, to take the summer off. (It's theoretically possible we could get to Group 3, but unlikely.) At this point, we'll alert everyone to their status, and those with confirmed spots can begin the registration process. (See the policy for definitions of Groups 1, 2, 3, 4.)

Registration

Registration will begin shortly after counting day, and the registration deadline is expected to be in mid-April.

In recent years we have had space for all alums who were sure by the commitment deadline that they wanted to return. If we do end up turning away alums in your group, you can request that we make an exception for you. You may submit this request (by emailing us) in the week following the counting day, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible; if we are able to make the exception, then your spot will be confirmed and you'll be invited to register.