STScI Space Astronomy Summer Program (SASP)

Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI)

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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

College undergraduates from the USA and other countries, mostly between their junior and senior years (exceptional younger students are considered). STScI HR helps international students with visas after acceptance.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) on the Johns Hopkins University campus in Baltimore, the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) runs the science operations for the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), Hubble Space Telescope (HST), and Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. Each summer, SASP selects ~12–15 international and domestic undergraduates to work one-on-one with STScI astronomers and data scientists on active space telescope research.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. College undergraduates from the USA and other countries, mostly between their junior and senior years (exceptional younger students are considered). STScI HR helps international students with visas after acceptance.
2. Note the deadline. Jan 1 – Jan 31 (annual; applications for summer 2026 closed on 31 Jan 2026 - the next round is expected to open on 1 Jan 2027) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Personal & Research Statements: Responses detailing your interest in observational/theoretical astrophysics, coding background, and career objectives.; Curriculum Vitae: Highlighting Python, AstroPy, data analysis, physics coursework, and any prior observatory or computational projects.; Academic Transcripts: Unofficial or official university transcripts.; Two Letters of Recommendation: Uploaded confidentially by physics or astronomy faculty members..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Evaluation by STScI Astronomer Selection Committee → Direct Matching with Proposed JWST/HST Summer Projects (Feb–Mar) → Offer Letters by Mid-March.

Profile of past winners

Upper-level physics and astronomy students (regardless of citizenship) who have solid Python scientific computing skills and a genuine passion for space telescope data analysis.

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. 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 STScI Space Astronomy Summer Program (SASP)?

College undergraduates from the USA and other countries, mostly between their junior and senior years (exceptional younger students are considered). STScI HR helps international students with visas after acceptance.

What does STScI Space Astronomy Summer Program (SASP) cover?

A paid nine-week research project at STScI in Baltimore; stipend and housing support are set each year

When is the deadline for STScI Space Astronomy Summer Program (SASP)?

Jan 1 – Jan 31 (annual; applications for summer 2026 closed on 31 Jan 2026 - the next round is expected to open on 1 Jan 2027) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with STScI Space Astronomy Summer Program (SASP)?

Host countries: United States.

What documents do I need for STScI Space Astronomy Summer Program (SASP)?

Personal & Research Statements: Responses detailing your interest in observational/theoretical astrophysics, coding background, and career objectives.; Curriculum Vitae: Highlighting Python, AstroPy, data analysis, physics coursework, and any prior observatory or computational projects.; Academic Transcripts: Unofficial or official university transcripts.; Two Letters of Recommendation: Uploaded confidentially by physics or astronomy faculty members..

How are applicants selected for STScI Space Astronomy Summer Program (SASP)?

Evaluation by STScI Astronomer Selection Committee → Direct Matching with Proposed JWST/HST Summer Projects (Feb–Mar) → Offer Letters by Mid-March.

How much work is the STScI Space Astronomy Summer Program (SASP) application?

Very High: Online STScI Application + Personal Essays on Research Interests + CV + University Transcripts + 2 Reference Letters