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!
