About the opportunity
The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program at Purdue University is a 10-week, immersive research experience designed to support undergraduate students in their pursuit of advanced educational and career opportunities in research. Participants work under the guidance of faculty, graduate students, or postdoctoral mentors on either the West Lafayette or Indianapolis campus. The program includes bi-weekly mini-symposia to build technical and communication skills, culminating in a final research symposium where students present their findings. All participants are required to submit a final report to their project advisor and the Engineering Undergraduate Research Office (EURO).
Funding and benefits
- $6500 stipend paid bi-weekly
- $2500 housing allowance for non-Purdue students (and Purdue students who apply by the priority deadline)
- Travel subsidy for eligible students participating at a location other than their home university
- Expert mentorship from faculty, graduate students, or postdoctoral researchers
- Professional development through required mini-symposia
- Opportunity to present research at the SURF Symposium
- Networking events, workshops, and seminars
- Social engagement activities
Who can apply?
- Currently enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student at Purdue, another U.S. institution, or an international institution
- Must have completed at least one academic semester or quarter by the time of application
- Must maintain undergraduate enrollment for at least one academic semester or quarter following the program
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8/4.0 or equivalent
- Ability to participate in the majority of program activities
- Must not be enrolled in other academic activities, internships, or summer programs during the fellowship
Required documents
- Academic CV or resume
- Unofficial university transcript
- Letter of recommendation (Non-Purdue students only)
When to apply
- Applications opened in early November 2026
- International student deadline: December 15, 2026
- Priority deadline: January 15, 2027
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis after the priority deadline
How to apply
- Prepare required documents including CV/resume and unofficial transcript
- Non-Purdue students must request a letter of recommendation from a professor or professional
- Draft a statement of purpose addressing research interests, career goals, and motivation for joining SURF
- Submit the application through the official Purdue SURF portal
Additional information
- The program runs from May 31, 2027, to July 30, 2027
- International students requiring a J-1 visa must adhere to the December 15, 2026, deadline
- Students are responsible for securing their own housing
- Travel subsidies are restricted to students moving between different university locations (e.g., non-Purdue students coming to Purdue, or Purdue students moving between campuses)
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Undergraduate students seeking a structured, 10-week intensive research experience with dedicated mentorship.
- Students interested in exploring academic or research-based career paths in STEM fields.
- Applicants who value professional development, such as technical communication training and networking with faculty and peers.
- Students looking for a fully-funded research opportunity that includes a competitive stipend and potential housing support.
What should you think carefully about?
- The program requires a full-time commitment, meaning you cannot participate in other internships, courses, or summer programs simultaneously.
- While a housing allowance is provided, students are responsible for securing their own accommodation, which requires proactive planning.
- Travel subsidies are not universal; they are only available to students traveling to a campus other than their home institution.
- Non-Purdue students must secure a letter of recommendation, which requires advance coordination with a professor or professional.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fellowship is an excellent vehicle for students aiming to build a research portfolio, gain technical skills, or test their interest in graduate-level studies. Whether you are a Purdue student or an international applicant, the program provides a clear, time-bound structure that fits well into a summer break, allowing you to gain significant research experience without delaying your degree progress.
Our take
This is a highly suitable opportunity for motivated undergraduates who want to immerse themselves in a professional research environment. It is particularly valuable for those considering future PhD or research-intensive careers. Applicants should prioritize the January 15 deadline to maximize their chances for housing and travel subsidies, especially if they are current Purdue students.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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