The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) invites applications for the Caltech University Summer Research Program 2025 (SURF). This prestigious 10-week fully funded summer internship is open to international students and U.S. citizens alike. Renowned as a highlight of Caltech’s academic offerings, the program aims to provide participants with hands-on research experience under the guidance of expert mentors.
With no application fee and a high acceptance rate—over 85% of applicants are selected—the program encourages fresh applicants from around the globe to apply. Below, you’ll find detailed information about the program, its benefits, and the application process.
Program Details
- Host Country: United States
- Host Institution: California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- Program Duration: 10 weeks
- Start Date: Mid-June 2025
- Funding: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: February 22, 2025
Financial Benefits
This fully funded program covers:
- Stipend: $7,950 to manage personal and academic expenses.
- Airfare: Travel costs to and from Caltech.
- Accommodation: On-campus or nearby housing.
- Meals: Support for daily sustenance.
- Visa Costs: Coverage for visa application fees (if required).
- Other Expenses: Additional support for personal needs.
International students receive full funding through their mentors.
Activities During the Program
Participants enjoy a wide range of enriching activities, including:
- Weekly Seminars: Led by Caltech faculty and scientists/engineers from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL).
- Academic and Professional Development Workshops: Sessions on research skills, career growth, and more.
- Effective Communication Training: Workshops to improve scientific and professional communication.
- Social and Cultural Events: Opportunities to connect and network with peers and mentors.
- Student-Faculty Dinners: Small, informal gatherings with faculty members to discuss ideas and experiences.
Program Structure
- Project Development: Collaborate with a mentor to outline and refine a research project.
- Proposal Submission: Submit a detailed research proposal describing your project goals and methods.
- Faculty Review: Faculty evaluate proposals and recommend awards to promising candidates.
- Research Execution: Conduct your research over the 10-week summer period.
Areas of Research
The program focuses on STEM fields, particularly science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Applicants are encouraged to consult the “Finding a Mentor” guide for tips on identifying suitable mentors and projects.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Open to U.S. citizens and international students from outside the U.S.
- Enrollment as an undergraduate student (high school students are not eligible).
- Strong academic performance and a genuine interest in research.
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
Additional eligibility requirements may apply for international students.
Required Documents
To apply, you’ll need:
- Online Application Form
- Research Proposal: Outline your project goals and approach.
- Unofficial Transcript: Submit if applicable.
- Two Letters of Recommendation: From academic or professional referees.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: February 22, 2025
- Award Announcements: April 1, 2025
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURF) 2025:
- Visit the official Caltech SURF website.
- Complete the online application and submit all required documents.
- Collaborate with a mentor to develop your research proposal before submission.
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to advance your academic and professional journey. Start your application today!
APPLY FOR THE CALTECH SURF PROGRAM 2025 IN USA
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