The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) invites applications for its fully funded Summer Research Program 2026. This 10-week program allows international undergraduate students to engage in cutting-edge research in STEM fields under the guidance of experienced mentors at one of the world’s leading research universities.

  • 🔬 Research Experience: SURF offers undergraduates the opportunity to conduct research with experienced mentors at Caltech since 1979.
  • 📝 Proposal-Based Process: Students collaborate with mentors to define projects and submit research proposals, reviewed by faculty.
  • ⏳ Program Duration: Research is conducted full-time over a 10-week summer period.
  • 📄 Deliverables: Students submit two interim reports, an abstract, a final technical paper, and give an oral presentation at SURF Seminar Days.
  • 🎯 Expectations: Full-time commitment, in-person research only, adherence to Caltech’s Honor Code and policies.
  • 💰 Stipend: Fellows receive $8,110 for the ten-week program in 2026.
  • 🧑‍🏫 Enrichment Opportunities: Weekly faculty & JPL seminars, academic/professional development workshops, communication workshops, social/cultural events, and student-faculty dinners.

Designation

Participant in Summer Research Program

Research Area

  • Science
  • Technology
  • Engineering
  • Mathematics (STEM fields)

Location

10 Master’s Students at Universität Hamburg, Germany
Read more10 Master's Students at Universität Hamburg, Germany

California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA

Eligibility/Qualification

  • Open to both American and international undergraduate students.
  • A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 is required.
  • Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic background and a genuine interest in their chosen field of study.
  • High school students are not eligible to apply.

Job Description

Participants will:

  • Develop a research project in collaboration with a mentor.
  • Draft research proposals to outline their study concepts.
  • Engage in weekly workshops led by scientists and engineers from JPL and Caltech.
  • Benefit from academic and professional development series, as well as cultural and social activities.

How to Apply

  1. Complete the online application form.
  2. Upload the following required documents:
  • Academic CV
  • Official academic transcript
  • Research Proposal
  • Two recommendation letters
  • Copy of passport or identity card

Last Date for Apply

Italian Government Scholarship for MSc and PhD Students
Read moreItalian Government Scholarship for MSc and PhD Students

22 February 2026

For more information and to apply, please visit the official Caltech Summer Research Program webpage.

Apply