ASCO Clinical Oncology Research Experience (CORE) for Medical Students

The ASCO CORE Program offers U.S. medical students a funded summer clinical and research experience in oncology. Participants complete a four-week rotation at a cancer center, shadow oncology care across disciplines, and undertake a small research or quality-improvement project. The program includes an orientation at the ASCO Annual Meeting, weekly virtual learning modules on cancer fundamentals, and mentorship from practicing oncologists to provide early, hands-on exposure to cancer medicine.

Eligibility is open to medical students enrolled in MD or DO programs in the United States, in any year of training, and in good academic standing. Applicants must be ASCO members (student membership is free) and able to commit to the orientation, the four-week rotation, and virtual sessions. Demonstrated interest in oncology or research is preferred but not required; students from groups underrepresented in medicine are encouraged to apply.

Selected students receive a $6,500 stipend to cover the four-week rotation and travel and lodging for the ASCO Annual Meeting orientation. ASCO also covers Annual Meeting registration and hosts special networking events for CORE participants.

The application deadline is January 12, 2026 (11:59 PM EST). Applicants will be notified in March 2026, and program activities begin with the ASCO Annual Meeting in late May 2026.

For more information and to apply, visit the ASCO CORE Program page.