Program Overview
The Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF) 2026 program provides an intensive 10-week opportunity for undergraduate students to conduct cutting-edge research. Participants will work on an original project under the expert guidance and mentorship of faculty members from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) or researchers from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL).
Key Information
- Host Institution: California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- Location: Pasadena, California, USA
- Study Level: Undergraduate (Summer Research Fellowship)
- Funding Status: Fully Funded (via stipend)
Program Benefits and Coverage
The Caltech SURF program is Fully Funded through a substantial stipend to cover participant expenses:
- Stipend: A significant stipend of $8,110 is provided for the entire 10-week research period.
- Academic Enrichment: Access to weekly seminars led by distinguished Caltech faculty and JPL scientists.
- Professional Development: Workshops focused on crucial skills like applying to graduate school and technical communication.
- Networking & Culture: Participation in social and cultural activities, including student-faculty dinners.
- Research Output: Requirement to submit a formal technical paper and deliver an oral presentation at the SURF Seminar Day.
Eligibility
- Academic Status: Must be a currently enrolled undergraduate student.
- GPA Requirements: Minimum cumulative GPA of ∼2.5/4.0 for non-Caltech students, and ∼2.0 for Caltech students.
- Commitment: Must commit to working full-time and in-person at Caltech for the entire 10-week duration of the program.
Application Timeline
- Application Deadline: 22 February 2026
- Program Dates: Specific 10-week period during Summer 2026 (Dates will be confirmed by the institution)
