The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF) Program at Caltech: A Transformative Research Opportunity

Caltech’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF) program is a highly prestigious initiative that has been fostering undergraduate research excellence since 1979. Designed for students passionate about science, engineering, and technology, this program provides a 10-week immersive research experience, allowing students to work closely with world-class faculty mentors on groundbreaking projects.

Overview of the Caltech SURF Program

SURF enables students to design and conduct an independent research project under the guidance of a mentor. The application process requires students to submit a research proposal, which is reviewed by faculty for funding recommendations. Successful applicants carry out their research over the summer, culminating in a technical paper and an oral presentation, simulating a professional scientific conference.

Benefits of Participating in SURF

• Research Fellowship: $7,950 stipend for the 10-week program.

• Hands-On Experience: Engage in cutting-edge research with expert faculty.

• Professional Development: Attend seminars and workshops on graduate school, career pathways, and effective communication.

• Networking Opportunities: Interact with faculty and peers in academic settings, including small student-faculty dinners.

• Social & Cultural Activities: Participate in events that enrich the overall experience at Caltech.

Eligibility Criteria

For Caltech Students:

• Must be a continuing undergraduate at Caltech.

• Minimum GPA of 2.0.

• Completed at least three terms at Caltech or a Dean-approved program.

• Eligible for fall term registration before July 1.

• No academic or disciplinary sanctions.

For Non-Caltech Students:

• Must be enrolled as an undergraduate in a degree-granting institution.

• Minimum GPA of 2.5/4.0.

• Completed at least two semesters or three quarters at their current university.

• No academic or disciplinary sanctions.

• International students may apply but require an F-1 or J-1 visa (depending on their status).

Special Requirements for International Students

• JPL Restrictions: Only U.S. citizens and permanent residents can conduct research at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL).

• Visa Requirements:

  • F-1 students need Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT) approval.

  • J-1 students must apply for Academic Training.

Application Process for SURF

1. Find a Mentor – Identify and contact a potential faculty mentor to discuss your research proposal.

2. Submit an Online Application through the SFP Online System, including:

   • A research proposal outlining project goals and methodology.

   • Unofficial transcript (for non-Caltech students).

   • Two letters of recommendation, with at least one from a faculty member.

3. Evaluation Criteria:

   • Quality of the research proposal.

   • Student's preparedness and potential for research ownership.

   • Mentor’s recommendation.

Expectations from SURF Fellows

• Commit full-time to research (no additional courses or jobs allowed).

• On-campus participation (remote research is not permitted).

• Submit progress reports, a final technical paper, and deliver an oral presentation.

Application Deadline

📅 Deadline: February 22, 2025

Early mentor discussions and thorough application preparation are crucial for a strong submission.

The Caltech SURF program is more than just a research fellowship—it’s an opportunity to work at the forefront of innovation, build a professional network, and lay the foundation for a successful research career. Apply now and take the first step towards scientific discovery! 🚀

For more information, visit Caltech SURF Program