Caltech SURF 2026 – Transformative 10-Week Summer Research Program for Undergraduates

For ambitious undergraduates eyeing a major leap into research, the SURF program at Caltech offers a standout opportunity. Since its inception in 1979, the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF) at Caltech have allowed students to engage in intensive, real research under expert mentors, culminating in formal presentations and publication-style work.

What makes SURF special?

• It’s modelled on the grant-seeking process: applicants collaborate with a potential mentor to define a project, write a proposal, get faculty review, then execute the project full-time for 10 weeks. (Student-Faculty Programs)
• Students submit interim reports, a technical paper, and give an oral presentation at SURF Seminar Day. (Student-Faculty Programs)
• For 2026, the fellowship award is $8,110 for the 10-week period. (Student-Faculty Programs)

Eligibility & Key Requirements

• Continuing undergraduates eligible for the fall term; visiting (non-Caltech) students may apply. (Student-Faculty Programs)
• Applicants must identify a Caltech faculty mentor ahead of applying and submit a research proposal. (Student-Faculty Programs)
• Projects must be in-person and full-time for the 10 weeks; remote participation is not permitted. (Student-Faculty Programs)
• Minimum GPA, prerequisite coursework and other requirements apply (e.g., non-Caltech students typically need a GPA of at least 2.5/4.0). (Student-Faculty Programs)

Application Process & Timeline

• The application includes an online form, your research proposal, transcript, and two recommendation letters. (Student-Faculty Programs)
• The major challenge is securing a mentor and defining a compelling project. Early preparation is key.
• While exact dates may vary, applicants should plan well ahead and watch the official program page for announcements.

Why Apply?

• Gain hands-on research experience at a world-leading institution and work at the frontier of science, engineering, or applied mathematics.
• Build your academic portfolio with real results—many SURF projects aim for publication or substantial outputs.
• Enhance your graduate school or career prospects by showing that you’ve participated in—and delivered on—a rigorous research project.
• Live and work on the Caltech campus for a summer, surrounded by bright peers and mentors, and take part in seminars, professional development, and enriched programming.
• Networking opportunities abound: Caltech’s low student-faculty ratio means direct access to top researchers. (Student-Faculty Programs)

If you’re a motivated undergraduate with an interest in research and ready to commit full-time for a summer, SURF at Caltech is a premier choice. The experience is more than an internship—it’s a full research immersion that can shape your academic path and open doors in innovation and science. Begin your search for a mentor, craft a strong proposal, and set your sights on the SURF 2026 cycle.