Caltech SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships)

Caltech

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Undergraduates from any university, with a GPA of at least 2.5/4.0 and a research proposal with a Caltech mentor. International students can take part on the Caltech campus (those already at a US school need work authorisation); JPL placements are for US citizens and permanent residents only.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Established in 1979, Caltech’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF) program introduces undergraduate students to creative scientific research under the direct guidance of a Caltech faculty member or NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) scientist for 10 weeks in Pasadena, California. Uniquely, visiting applicants must first identify and secure agreement from a Caltech professor in December/January and collaborate with them to write and submit a formal scientific research proposal by February 22.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Undergraduates from any university, with a GPA of at least 2.5/4.0 and a research proposal with a Caltech mentor. International students can take part on the Caltech campus (those already at a US school need work authorisation); JPL placements are for US citizens and permanent residents only.
2. Note the deadline. Nov – Feb (annual; applications open in autumn and close in late Feb - you also need to write a proposal with a Caltech mentor) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Co-Written Technical Research Proposal: A rigorous scientific proposal developed in collaboration with your prospective Caltech/JPL research mentor outlining background, methodology, and 10-week work plan.; Official University Transcript: Showing strong performance in advanced mathematics, physics, chemistry, or engineering courses.; Two Confidential Letters of Recommendation: Submitted by faculty members at your home university who know your research aptitude.; Mentor Evaluation Form: Submitted directly by your prospective Caltech host professor confirming willingness to host and co-fund/sponsor..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Step 1: Cold-Email & Secure a Caltech Faculty Mentor (Nov–Jan) → Step 2: Co-Write & Submit Formal SURF Research Proposal (Feb 22) → Step 3: Faculty Review & Award Notification on April 1.

Profile of past winners

Proactive 2nd- and 3rd-year undergraduates who reach out to a Caltech professor in November or December after reading their recent papers, hold a Zoom discussion, and draft a publication-grade 10-week research proposal before February.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

Tips from our advisors

1. Tailor your CV to the role: lead with the skills and projects the posting asks for.
2. Write a short, specific motivation statement. Name the team or project you want to join and why.
3. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
4. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
5. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
6. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Caltech SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships)?

Undergraduates from any university, with a GPA of at least 2.5/4.0 and a research proposal with a Caltech mentor. International students can take part on the Caltech campus (those already at a US school need work authorisation); JPL placements are for US citizens and permanent residents only.

What does Caltech SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships) cover?

A 10-week paid summer research fellowship at Caltech; the stipend is set each year (check the SURF page)

When is the deadline for Caltech SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships)?

Nov – Feb (annual; applications open in autumn and close in late Feb - you also need to write a proposal with a Caltech mentor) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Caltech SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships)?

Host countries: United States.

What documents do I need for Caltech SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships)?

Co-Written Technical Research Proposal: A rigorous scientific proposal developed in collaboration with your prospective Caltech/JPL research mentor outlining background, methodology, and 10-week work plan.; Official University Transcript: Showing strong performance in advanced mathematics, physics, chemistry, or engineering courses.; Two Confidential Letters of Recommendation: Submitted by faculty members at your home university who know your research aptitude.; Mentor Evaluation Form: Submitted directly by your prospective Caltech host professor confirming willingness to host and co-fund/sponsor..

How are applicants selected for Caltech SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships)?

Step 1: Cold-Email & Secure a Caltech Faculty Mentor (Nov–Jan) → Step 2: Co-Write & Submit Formal SURF Research Proposal (Feb 22) → Step 3: Faculty Review & Award Notification on April 1.

How much work is the Caltech SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships) application?

Very High: Prior Confirmation from a Caltech/JPL Faculty Mentor + Jointly Co-Authored Technical Research Proposal + Online Application + Transcripts + 2 Confidential Reference Letters