MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

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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

Sophomores, juniors and non-graduating seniors (not graduating before December 2027) with at least two years of college coursework, a minimum 3.5 GPA and full-time enrolment at a U.S. institution other than MIT. U.S. citizens, permanent residents, DACA holders and international students with appropriate visa and work authorisation (F-1 students need CPT or OPT approval by 15 May 2027) may apply. Biology and Brain & Cognitive Sciences applicants use MSRP Biology/BCS instead.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

A summer research programme at MIT (7 June to 7 August 2027) for undergraduates from other U.S. institutions, including international students who already study in the U.S.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Sophomores, juniors and non-graduating seniors (not graduating before December 2027) with at least two years of college coursework, a minimum 3.5 GPA and full-time enrolment at a U.S. institution other than MIT. U.S. citizens, permanent residents, DACA holders and international students with appropriate visa and work authorisation (F-1 students need CPT or OPT approval by 15 May 2027) may apply. Biology and Brain & Cognitive Sciences applicants use MSRP Biology/BCS instead.
2. Note the deadline. Sep – Jan (annual; for summer 2027 the application opens 29 Sep 2026 and closes 19 Jan 2027, with both recommendation letters due the same day) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. CV; Cover letter or motivation statement; Proof of current enrolment or recent graduation; Academic transcript; Passport or national ID copy; Reference letter from a lecturer or supervisor (if requested); English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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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. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
5. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
6. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.

Quick answers

Who can apply for MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP)?

Sophomores, juniors and non-graduating seniors (not graduating before December 2027) with at least two years of college coursework, a minimum 3.5 GPA and full-time enrolment at a U.S. institution other than MIT. U.S. citizens, permanent residents, DACA holders and international students with appropriate visa and work authorisation (F-1 students need CPT or OPT approval by 15 May 2027) may apply. Biology and Brain & Cognitive Sciences applicants use MSRP Biology/BCS instead.

What does MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP) cover?

The page does not state a stipend or funding amount - check the MSRP page before applying

When is the deadline for MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP)?

Sep – Jan (annual; for summer 2027 the application opens 29 Sep 2026 and closes 19 Jan 2027, with both recommendation letters due the same day) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP)?

Host countries: United States.

What documents do I need for MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP)?

CV; Cover letter or motivation statement; Proof of current enrolment or recent graduation; Academic transcript; Passport or national ID copy; Reference letter from a lecturer or supervisor (if requested); English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).

How much work is the MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP) application?

High: Essays + CV + unlocked transcript + 2 recommendation letters