Robotics Institute Summer Scholars (RISS), Carnegie Mellon

Carnegie Mellon University Robotics Institute

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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

Undergraduate students interested in robotics research; funding and support are available for both US and international students. See the FAQ for the visa details.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Hosted at the world’s #1-ranked Robotics Institute inside Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Computer Science in Pittsburgh, the RISS program brings talented undergraduate researchers from around the world for an 11-week summer immersion (June 1 – August). Scholars conduct full-time research in autonomous vehicles, aerial/field robotics, medical robotics, computer vision, manipulation, and human-robot interaction, co-authoring a paper published in the annual RISS Working Papers Journal and presenting at the closing poster session.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Undergraduate students interested in robotics research; funding and support are available for both US and international students. See the FAQ for the visa details.
2. Note the deadline. Nov – Jan (annual; the 2026 round closed on 21 Jan at 15:00 EST for a programme running 1 Jun – 9 Aug - the next round is expected to close in mid-Jan 2027) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Statement of Purpose (1–2 Pages): Technical statement explaining your robotics/AI research background, research goals, and specific CMU Robotics Institute labs that match your skillset.; Technical Resume & Portfolio: CV with links to GitHub code, ROS/C++/PyTorch projects, CAD designs, or prior publications.; Official University Transcripts: All undergraduate courses and grades to date.; Two Letters of Recommendation: Submitted by academic research advisors or engineering professors..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Initial Screening of Technical Portfolio & GPA → Direct Selection & Video Interviews by CMU Robotics Institute Faculty & Lab Leads (Feb–Mar) → Final Placement.

Profile of past winners

Undergraduates who already have hands-on robotics experience (ROS2, C++, PyTorch, SLAM, computer vision, mechatronics, or control theory) and include a clean GitHub or video portfolio link on their resume.

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 Robotics Institute Summer Scholars (RISS), Carnegie Mellon?

Undergraduate students interested in robotics research; funding and support are available for both US and international students. See the FAQ for the visa details.

What does Robotics Institute Summer Scholars (RISS), Carnegie Mellon cover?

Funding and support for a summer robotics research residency at CMU; amounts vary by year

When is the deadline for Robotics Institute Summer Scholars (RISS), Carnegie Mellon?

Nov – Jan (annual; the 2026 round closed on 21 Jan at 15:00 EST for a programme running 1 Jun – 9 Aug - the next round is expected to close in mid-Jan 2027) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Robotics Institute Summer Scholars (RISS), Carnegie Mellon?

Host countries: United States.

What documents do I need for Robotics Institute Summer Scholars (RISS), Carnegie Mellon?

Statement of Purpose (1–2 Pages): Technical statement explaining your robotics/AI research background, research goals, and specific CMU Robotics Institute labs that match your skillset.; Technical Resume & Portfolio: CV with links to GitHub code, ROS/C++/PyTorch projects, CAD designs, or prior publications.; Official University Transcripts: All undergraduate courses and grades to date.; Two Letters of Recommendation: Submitted by academic research advisors or engineering professors..

How are applicants selected for Robotics Institute Summer Scholars (RISS), Carnegie Mellon?

Initial Screening of Technical Portfolio & GPA → Direct Selection & Video Interviews by CMU Robotics Institute Faculty & Lab Leads (Feb–Mar) → Final Placement.

How much work is the Robotics Institute Summer Scholars (RISS), Carnegie Mellon application?

Very High: Online CMU RISS Portal Application + 2-Page Statement of Purpose + Lab/Mentor Preferences + Resume + Transcripts + 2 Reference Letters