Perimeter Institute Undergraduate Summer Programs (PSI Start)

Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics

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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

Students from anywhere in the world who meet the eligibility criteria (undergraduates interested in theoretical physics). Interns need a visitor visa or eTA for Canada.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Perimeter offers a two-week undergraduate summer school and a paid research internship (PSI Start). Students from any country can apply.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Students from anywhere in the world who meet the eligibility criteria (undergraduates interested in theoretical physics). Interns need a visitor visa or eTA for Canada.
2. Note the deadline. Nov – Feb 1 (annual; the 2026 summer school application deadline was extended to 1 Feb, internships were awarded by the end of Feb - the next round is expected to open in Nov 2026) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Statement of Purpose: Focused essay explaining your passion for theoretical physics, key theorems or papers you have studied, and preferred research areas at Perimeter.; Advanced Coursework & Textbook List: Detailed inventory of upper-level physics and mathematics courses completed and textbooks mastered.; Official University Transcripts & CV: Demonstrating top-1% marks in quantum mechanics, general relativity, electrodynamics, and algebra/analysis.; Two Letters of Recommendation: From theoretical physics or mathematics professors..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Rigorous Evaluation by Perimeter Faculty of Mathematical & Theoretical Physics Maturity → Matching with Summer Research Mentors (Feb–Mar) → Fellowship Award.

Profile of past winners

Students with near-perfect grades in quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and differential geometry/linear algebra who demonstrate maturity with graduate-level physics textbooks.

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 Perimeter Institute Undergraduate Summer Programs (PSI Start)?

Students from anywhere in the world who meet the eligibility criteria (undergraduates interested in theoretical physics). Interns need a visitor visa or eTA for Canada.

What does Perimeter Institute Undergraduate Summer Programs (PSI Start) cover?

No fees. Summer school: travel, accommodation and meal credit. PSI Start research internship: a paid research award, return economy airfare and ground transportation, and help with housing (minimum 12 weeks between May and August)

When is the deadline for Perimeter Institute Undergraduate Summer Programs (PSI Start)?

Nov – Feb 1 (annual; the 2026 summer school application deadline was extended to 1 Feb, internships were awarded by the end of Feb - the next round is expected to open in Nov 2026) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Perimeter Institute Undergraduate Summer Programs (PSI Start)?

Host countries: Canada.

What documents do I need for Perimeter Institute Undergraduate Summer Programs (PSI Start)?

Statement of Purpose: Focused essay explaining your passion for theoretical physics, key theorems or papers you have studied, and preferred research areas at Perimeter.; Advanced Coursework & Textbook List: Detailed inventory of upper-level physics and mathematics courses completed and textbooks mastered.; Official University Transcripts & CV: Demonstrating top-1% marks in quantum mechanics, general relativity, electrodynamics, and algebra/analysis.; Two Letters of Recommendation: From theoretical physics or mathematics professors..

How are applicants selected for Perimeter Institute Undergraduate Summer Programs (PSI Start)?

Rigorous Evaluation by Perimeter Faculty of Mathematical & Theoretical Physics Maturity → Matching with Summer Research Mentors (Feb–Mar) → Fellowship Award.

How much work is the Perimeter Institute Undergraduate Summer Programs (PSI Start) application?

Very High: Online Perimeter Application + Statement of Purpose + CV + List of Advanced Physics/Math Courses + Official Transcripts + 2 Reference Letters