Introduction
The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) is a paid research fellowship at Purdue University. It is designed for undergraduate students who want real research experience. The program helps students prepare for graduate study and research careers in a simple and supportive environment.
About the Fellowship
SURF is an 11-week research fellowship. Students work on real research projects under the supervision of faculty members, graduate students, or postdoctoral researchers. The program combines research work with training sessions and professional development activities.
Host Country
United States of America
Host University
Purdue University
Fellowship Type
Paid summer research fellowship
Degree
Undergraduate (Bachelor level)
Eligibility Criteria
- Be a current undergraduate student
- Study at Purdue University, another U.S. university, or an international university
- Have completed at least one academic semester before applying
- Remain an undergraduate for at least one semester after the program ends
- Have a minimum GPA of 2.8 out of 4.0 or equivalent
- Be available for most program activities
- First-time SURF applicants are preferred
- Second-time participation is only allowed with special approval
Fields of Study
- Engineering
- Science
- Technology
- STEM-related fields offered at Purdue
Fellowship Benefits
- $6500 stipend paid bi-weekly
- $2500 housing allowance for eligible students
- Expert mentorship from faculty and researchers
- Professional development seminars
- Research presentation at SURF Symposium
- Networking opportunities
- Social and academic activities
- Improved research and communication skills
Required Documents
- Academic CV or resume
- Unofficial university transcript
- Statement of purpose
- Letter of recommendation (required only for non-Purdue students)
Application Process
- Review available SURF research projects
- Contact Purdue professors if needed
- Prepare required documents
- Complete the online application
- Select up to three research projects in the application
- Submit the application before the deadline
Registration Deadlines
Student Application Opens | December 1, 2025
Priority Application Deadline | January 15, 2026
Remote Program Period | May 25, 2026 – May 31, 2026
In-Person Program Period | June 1, 2026 – August 7, 2026
SURF Symposium | July 30, 2026
Selection Process
- Review of academic background
- Evaluation of statement of purpose
- Matching with available research projects
- Consideration of GPA and experience
- Priority given to first-time applicants
Tips to Succeed
- Apply before the priority deadline
- Write a clear and honest statement of purpose
- Choose research projects that match your interests
- Show motivation for research and learning
- Check your documents carefully before submission
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is this fellowship paid
Yes, students receive a stipend of $6500 - Can international students apply
Yes, international undergraduate students are eligible - Is housing provided
Students arrange their own housing, but some receive a housing allowance - Is prior research experience required
No, beginners are welcome
Why Choose This Fellowship
- Real research experience at a top U.S. university
- Strong support from mentors
- Preparation for graduate school
- Professional skill development
- Valuable academic and career exposure
Career and Future Opportunities
- Better preparation for master’s and PhD programs
- Stronger academic CV
- Research publications or presentations
- Improved chances for future fellowships
- Clearer career direction in STEM fields
Student Experiences
Students report gaining confidence in research skills. Many say the mentorship helped them understand academic research. Participants often continue research or apply to graduate programs after SURF.
Conclusion
The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship 2026 at Purdue University is an excellent opportunity for undergraduate students. It offers paid research, strong mentorship, and career development. This fellowship is ideal for students who want to grow academically and professionally through real research experience.
Other Best Fellowships
Chemers Neustein Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship 2026
SFI Undergraduate Complexity Research Fellowship 2026
2026 PhD Fellowship Programme at BIS Basel Switzerland
Ishibashi Foundation and Japan Foundation Fellowship for Research on Japanese Art 2026
