Application Deadline: January 15, 2026
LOCATION: USA
The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program offers a unique, immersive, 11-week research experience designed to encourage undergraduate students in their pursuit of advanced educational and career opportunities in research.
ELIGIBILITY:
Current Undergraduate Enrollment
Be currently enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Purdue, another U.S. institution, or an international institution.
First-Time Participation Restriction
Participants must be first-time students in the Purdue SURF program, as the program is generally designed for single-time engagement.
However, students may participate a second time with the explicit support of their Principal Investigator (PI). PIs should note that funding preferences are given to first-time participants. Specifically:
Second-time participants are ineligible for the EURO housing or travel subsidy.
In the event of departmental funding limits, priority will be given to first-time participants.
Semester Completion and Continuation: Have completed at least one academic semester/quarter by the time of the SURF application.
Maintain undergraduate enrollment for at least one academic semester/quarter following the conclusion of the SURF program.
Minimum GPA Requirement
Possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8/4.0 or equivalent at the time of application.
Participation Availability: Demonstrate the ability to actively participate in the majority of program activities. Requests for alternate start dates, up to one week post-program commencement, can be accommodated with faculty permission.
Upload an academic CV or resume and an unofficial university transcript.
Letter of Recommendation (Non-Purdue Students ONLY) Non-Purdue students are required to request a letter of recommendation from a professor/professional whom they have worked closely with. The letter should be uploaded by the application deadline.
BENEFIT:
$6500 Stipend: Receive a generous stipend of $6500 paid biweekly for your dedicated participation in the 11-week immersive research program.
Expert Mentorship: Gain access to seasoned faculty and graduate student mentors who offer valuable guidance, ensuring a supportive and enriching research experience.
Professional Development Seminars: Attend specialized seminars designed to enhance your professional skills, providing insights into various aspects of academic and research careers.
Symposium Presentation: Showcase your research findings by presenting at the prestigious SURF Symposium, offering a platform to share your work with peers, faculty, and professionals.
Social Engagement: Enjoy a vibrant social community by participating in activities designed for bonding with fellow participants, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collaboration.
Networking Opportunities: Engage in networking events, workshops, and seminars that connect you with professionals, researchers, and peers, expanding your professional network and creating lasting connections.
Enhanced Communication Skills: Develop and refine your technical communication proficiency, a crucial skill for effectively conveying complex ideas, research findings, and insights in a professional context.
$2500 Housing Allowance: All Non-Purdue students receive the housing allowance. For Purdue students, they must apply by the priority deadline to be considered. If selected, they will be notified in their offer letter, and the amount will be added to their biweekly compensation.
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