Purdue University SURF Program in USA (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship)

The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program offers a unique, immersive, 11-week research experience designed to encourage undergraduate students in their pursuit of advanced educational and career opportunities in research.

Eligibility includes undergraduate students at Purdue University, other U.S. institutions, and international institutions. Students selected will conduct research on either Purdue's West Lafayette or Indianapolis campus under the guidance of a faculty member, graduate student, or postdoctoral mentor.

This competitive fellowship is a paid opportunity complemented with weekly professional development workshops and seminars to help build the technical and communication skills of participants.

The program culminates with a student research symposium in which participants present their findings. All participants must submit a final report detailing their outcomes to both their project advisor and the Engineering Undergraduate Research Office (EURO).

To be considered for the Purdue University Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship, you must:

• Be currently enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Purdue, another U.S. institution, or an international institution.

• Be a first-time participant in the Purdue SURF program, as students can engage in the program only once.

• Have completed at least one academic semester/quarter by the time of the SURF application.

• Maintain undergraduate enrollment for at least one academic semester/quarter following the conclusion of the SURF program.

• Be a rising junior or senior; Purdue-affiliated rising sophomores, including Purdue-Indy rising sophomores, are also eligible.

• Possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8/4.0 or equivalnet at the time of application.

• Demonstrate the ability to actively participate in the majority of program activities. Requests for alternate start dates, up to one week post-program commencement, can be accommodated with faculty permission.

• $6500 Stipend: Receive a generous stipend of $6500 paid bi-weekly for your dedicated participation in the 11-week immersive research program.

• Expert Mentorship: Gain access to seasoned faculty and graduate student mentors who offer valuable guidance, ensuring a supportive and enriching research experience.

• Professional Development Seminars: Attend specialized seminars designed to enhance your professional skills, providing insights into various aspects of academic and research careers.

• Symposium Presentation: Showcase your research findings by presenting at the prestigious SURF Symposium, offering a platform to share your work with peers, faculty, and professionals.

• Social Engagement: Enjoy a vibrant social community by participating in activities designed for bonding with fellow participants, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collaboration.

• Networking Opportunities: Engage in networking events, workshops, and seminars that connect you with professionals, researchers, and peers, expanding your professional network and creating lasting connections.

• Enhanced Communication Skills: Develop and refine your technical communication proficiency, a crucial skill for effectively conveying complex ideas, research findings, and insights in a professional context.

• $2500 housing allowance

  • ​All external students receive the housing allowance.

• For Purdue students, they must apply by the priority deadline to be considered. If selected, they will be notified in their offer letter, and the amount will be added to their bi-weekly compensation.

To apply for the Purdue University SURF Program, interested candidates should;

1. 1

   Complete the application form

2. 2

   Upload your resume.

3. 3

   Upload your university transcript
   Upload a PDF of your university transcript directly to the application system. The transcript must include your name, program of study, past courses with grades, and current course enrollments.

4. 4

   Submit Statement of Purpose 

5. 5

   External students are required to request a letter of recommendation from a Professor/Professional who you have worked closely with. The letter should be uploaded by the application deadline.

6. 6

   Talk to Purdue professors about your research interests and potential opportunities in their lab. 

7. 7

   Review the SURF list of research projects with undergraduate research positions.

8. 8

   You can indicate your interest in these projects directly on the application by selecting up to three projects. Additional projects will be posted as they become available.