The Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF) program is accepting applications for its 2027 summer research cycle. This paid opportunity allows eligible undergraduate students to conduct research at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in the United States. Selected fellows receive an $8,354 award for 10 weeks of research under experienced faculty mentors.
Caltech welcomes qualified undergraduate students from its own campus and other universities. Moreover, international students can participate in eligible Caltech-campus research projects.
However, applicants must find a Caltech faculty mentor who agrees to supervise their proposed research before they apply.
The application deadline is 22 February 2027.
Caltech SURF 2027 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Program | Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF) |
| Host institution | California Institute of Technology |
| Location | Pasadena, California, USA |
| Academic level | Undergraduate |
| Research duration | 10 weeks |
| Standard start date | 15 June 2027 |
| Research award | $8,354 |
| Eligible applicants | Caltech and qualified visiting undergraduates |
| International students | Eligible for Caltech-campus SURF |
| Minimum GPA for visiting students | 2.5/4.0 |
| Faculty mentor | Required before application |
| Application deadline | 22 February 2027 |
| Selection results | 1 April 2027 |
| Application method | Online |
| Official website | https://sfp.caltech.edu/undergraduate-research/programs/surf |
What Is the Caltech SURF Program?
The Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships program helps undergraduate students gain practical research experience.
Caltech established SURF in 1979. Since then, the program has allowed students to work with experienced researchers on scientific and technical projects.
Unlike a conventional classroom course, SURF follows a research proposal model.
Students first identify a research topic and collaborate with a potential mentor. They then develop a proposal explaining the project’s goals, methods, and expected outcomes.
After selection, fellows conduct their research over 10 weeks.
At the end of the program, participants submit a technical report and present their findings at a SURF Seminar Day.
This process helps students understand how professional research works, from developing an idea to communicating results.
Caltech SURF 2027 Financial Benefits
Selected fellows receive financial support and access to academic development activities.
1. $8,354 Research Award
Caltech provides an award of $8,354 for the 2027 SURF program.
The award supports fellows during the 10-week research period.
However, students must manage their personal expenses, including accommodation, meals, and transportation.
The award should not be confused with a scholarship that separately covers all travel and living costs.
2. Research Mentorship
Every SURF participant works with an experienced research mentor.
The mentor helps the student develop a research proposal and guides the project.
In addition, mentors provide feedback on research methods, progress, and final results.
3. Academic Seminars
Fellows can attend weekly seminars led by Caltech faculty members and researchers from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
These sessions introduce students to current scientific and engineering research.
4. Professional Development
Caltech organizes activities covering research careers, graduate school admissions, and scientific communication.
Participants can also join workshops that strengthen academic writing and presentation skills.
5. Networking Opportunities
The program includes student-faculty dinners, professional discussions, and social activities.
As a result, fellows can build connections with researchers and other undergraduate students.
6. Accommodation Availability
Visiting students may apply for summer housing at Caltech.
However, accommodation is limited and not guaranteed.
Important: Housing costs are not included as an additional benefit. Students must pay for accommodation themselves.
Research Areas Available at Caltech
SURF provides opportunities across different scientific and engineering disciplines.
Research projects depend on faculty availability and the interests of participating mentors.
Possible areas include:
Physics and Astronomy
Students may explore topics involving theoretical physics, experimental physics, astrophysics, or related research.
Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
Projects may involve algorithms, machine learning, computing systems, or interdisciplinary technology.
Engineering
Research opportunities can involve electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science, and other technical fields.
Biology and Biological Engineering
Students interested in life sciences may explore molecular biology, genetics, bioengineering, or related subjects.
Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
Research may involve chemical reactions, materials, molecular processes, and laboratory experimentation.
Mathematics and Applied Science
Some projects involve mathematical modeling, computational analysis, and theoretical research.
These examples are not a guaranteed list of available projects.
Applicants should review the official research opportunities and contact suitable faculty members before preparing their applications.
Caltech SURF 2027 Eligibility Criteria
Caltech has separate eligibility requirements for its own students and visiting undergraduate applicants.
Eligibility for Visiting Students
Applicants studying at universities outside Caltech must:
- Be continuing undergraduate students.
- Remain eligible for enrollment in the academic term following SURF.
- Have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- Have completed at least two semesters or three quarters of university study.
- Have no academic or disciplinary sanctions.
- Obtain approval from a Caltech faculty mentor before applying.
Students must be enrolled in a degree-granting undergraduate program.
High school students taking college-level courses are not eligible.
Eligibility for Caltech Students
Caltech undergraduate applicants must:
- Be continuing undergraduate students.
- Have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0.
- Complete their third academic term or an approved equivalent.
- Meet the university’s registration requirements.
- Have no academic or disciplinary sanctions.
They must also meet the program’s research and mentoring requirements.
Can International Students Apply for Caltech SURF 2027?
Yes. Caltech allows eligible international undergraduate students to participate in SURF projects on its campus.
However, there is an important distinction between Caltech-campus SURF and SURF at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Caltech-Campus SURF
International students can apply if they meet the academic requirements and secure an eligible Caltech faculty mentor.
Applicants from universities outside the United States may also qualify.
SURF at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory
JPL research placements have stricter citizenship requirements.
Only U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents can participate in SURF@JPL.
Therefore, international applicants who do not meet these restrictions should focus on eligible Caltech-campus projects.
Visa Requirements for International Applicants
International students traveling to the United States may need an F-1 or J-1 visa.
Caltech provides relevant instructions after a student receives an award.
Meanwhile, international students already studying in the United States may need appropriate employment authorization.
Applicants should consult their university’s international student adviser early.
Visa approval and work authorization must be completed before the fellowship begins.
How to Find a Caltech Research Mentor
Finding a mentor is one of the most important steps in the SURF application process.
Caltech requires applicants to obtain a faculty mentor’s agreement before submitting an application.
Students cannot simply submit an application and wait for Caltech to assign them a supervisor.
Step 1: Identify Your Research Interests
Start by choosing a subject that matches your academic background.
For example, a computer science student may explore artificial intelligence, while a biology student may prefer laboratory research.
Step 2: Explore Caltech Faculty Research
Visit the official Caltech faculty and research websites.
Read about ongoing projects and identify researchers whose work interests you.
You can also review the SURF Announcements of Opportunity.
These announcements indicate whether particular projects accept visiting students.
Step 3: Contact a Potential Mentor
Write a short, professional email introducing yourself.
Explain your academic background, relevant experience, and interest in the faculty member’s research.
Avoid sending the same generic message to many professors.
Instead, mention a specific research topic or publication that interests you.
Step 4: Discuss a Possible Research Project
If a faculty member responds positively, discuss a suitable project.
The mentor should help define the research question and assess whether the project can be completed in 10 weeks.
Step 5: Obtain Mentor Approval
Before submitting your application, confirm that the faculty member agrees to support your SURF project.
The mentor must also participate in the program’s evaluation and funding arrangements.
Without mentor approval, applicants cannot proceed with a valid SURF application.
Required Documents for Caltech SURF 2027
Applicants must submit their materials through Caltech’s Student-Faculty Programs online system.
The required application materials include:
- Completed online application.
- Research proposal written by the applicant.
- Unofficial academic transcript for visiting students.
- Two confidential recommendation letters.
- Faculty mentor approval and evaluation.
- Other information requested by the application system.
At least one recommendation letter must come from a faculty member.
The second letter may come from another person who can evaluate the applicant’s abilities, such as an instructor or research supervisor.
Importantly, the proposed Caltech mentor submits a separate evaluation and should not serve as one of the two regular recommenders.
How to Write a Strong Caltech SURF Research Proposal
The research proposal is a central part of the application.
Caltech expects applicants to demonstrate a clear understanding of their proposed research.
A strong proposal should explain:
Research Background
Introduce the scientific or technical problem you want to investigate.
Explain why the question matters and how it connects to existing research.
Research Objectives
Describe what you want to achieve.
Use clear and realistic objectives that fit within the 10-week program.
Research Methods
Explain how you plan to investigate the problem.
Depending on the subject, this may involve experiments, mathematical models, simulations, or data analysis.
Work Plan
Provide a realistic schedule for completing the project.
Identify major tasks, expected milestones, and possible challenges.
Expected Contribution
Explain what your research could contribute to the field.
Caltech encourages projects with meaningful intellectual content and potential for publication.
References
Include relevant scientific publications or other research materials.
Applicants should work closely with their mentors while developing their proposals.
Important: Caltech requires students to follow its policies on generative AI. Applicants must consult their mentors or the Student-Faculty Programs Office about permitted AI use. They should not submit AI-generated research material unless the relevant policy explicitly allows it.
How to Apply for Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships 2027
Interested applicants should follow these steps.
Step 1: Visit the Official SURF Website
Open the Caltech SURF program page.
Review the program requirements and application instructions.
Step 2: Confirm Your Eligibility
Check the academic requirements for Caltech or visiting students.
International applicants should also review the visa and citizenship restrictions.
Step 3: Find a Research Mentor
Identify a Caltech faculty member whose research matches your interests.
Contact the professor and discuss a possible summer research project.
Step 4: Develop Your Research Proposal
Work with your mentor to define the project.
Prepare a clear proposal that explains the research objectives, methods, and work plan.
Step 5: Arrange Recommendation Letters
Contact two suitable recommenders.
At least one must be a faculty member.
Give your referees enough time to submit their letters through the online system.
Step 6: Complete the Online Application
Open the official application portal through the Caltech SURF Application Information page.
Enter your information and upload the required documents.
Step 7: Submit Before the Deadline
Complete your application by 22 February 2027.
Recommendation letters are also due on the same date.
Caltech will contact the proposed mentor for a confidential evaluation.
Caltech SURF 2027 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application deadline | 22 February 2027 |
| Recommendation deadline | 22 February 2027 |
| Award announcements | 1 April 2027 |
| Standard research start date | 15 June 2027 |
| Research duration | 10 weeks |
Caltech may approve alternative starting dates for students with compelling academic scheduling reasons.
However, students must receive approval from their mentors and the Student-Faculty Programs Office.
All participants must begin by 12 July 2027 and complete the full 10-week research period.
What Will Students Do During Caltech SURF?
The fellowship requires participants to focus on their research projects.
Fellows must work in person and complete the full research period.
Their responsibilities include:
- Conducting research under faculty supervision.
- Submitting two interim progress reports.
- Preparing a research abstract.
- Writing a final technical report.
- Delivering an oral presentation.
- Following Caltech’s academic and research policies.
Students cannot take courses or hold another job during the fellowship.
Remote research projects are not permitted.
How Are Caltech SURF Applications Evaluated?
Caltech reviews applications based on research quality, academic preparation, and mentor support.
The selection committee considers several factors.
Research Proposal Quality
The proposal should explain the research problem, its significance, and the planned methods.
Feasibility
The proposed project must be realistic for a 10-week research period.
Student Preparation
Applicants should demonstrate relevant academic knowledge and skills.
Research Potential
The project should involve meaningful scientific or intellectual work.
Caltech values proposals with the potential to contribute to publishable research.
Mentor Support
Faculty recommendations and evaluations play an important role.
Therefore, applicants should establish a strong working relationship with their proposed mentor before applying.
Tips for a Successful Caltech SURF Application
Start Looking for a Mentor Early
Finding a suitable professor may take time, especially for visiting students.
Therefore, begin researching potential mentors well before February.
Contact Faculty Professionally
Write personalized emails.
Explain your interest in the professor’s work and describe your relevant academic preparation.
Develop a Realistic Project
Avoid proposing a project that requires more time or resources than the fellowship allows.
Instead, work with your mentor to define achievable goals.
Prepare Strong Recommendations
Choose referees who know your academic abilities.
Specific examples of research skills, problem-solving, and initiative can strengthen your application.
Review Financial Arrangements
Although the award provides financial support, accommodation and other personal expenses remain the student’s responsibility.
International applicants should also consider travel and visa costs.
Submit Your Application Early
Do not wait until the deadline.
Your application requires a research proposal, mentor approval, and recommendation letters. Each step may take considerable preparation.
Caltech SURF vs. Caltech Amgen Scholars
Caltech offers several undergraduate research programs, but they have different eligibility requirements.
| Feature | Caltech SURF | Caltech Amgen Scholars |
|---|---|---|
| Research focus | Broad scientific and engineering research | Primarily biomedical and related sciences |
| International applicants | Eligible for Caltech-campus projects | Restricted to specified U.S. eligibility categories |
| Minimum visiting-student GPA | 2.5/4.0 | 3.2/4.0 |
| Faculty mentor | Required | Required |
| Program duration | 10 weeks | Summer research program |
| Application deadline | 22 February 2027 | 1 February 2027 |
Applicants should select the program that matches their academic background and eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships 2027 fully funded?
Caltech provides an $8,354 research award for 10 weeks. However, the award does not include separate guaranteed free housing, airfare, or coverage of all personal expenses.
Can international students apply for Caltech SURF?
Yes. Eligible international undergraduate students can participate in Caltech-campus SURF projects.
However, JPL projects require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.
What is the minimum GPA?
Visiting students need a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5/4.0.
Caltech undergraduate students need at least 2.0.
Do applicants need a research mentor before applying?
Yes. Applicants must obtain approval from a Caltech faculty mentor before submitting their SURF applications.
Is previous research experience required?
Caltech does not list previous research experience as a universal eligibility requirement.
However, applicants must demonstrate suitable academic preparation for their proposed projects.
Can final-year students apply?
Students must remain continuing undergraduates and be eligible for registration in the academic term following SURF.
Does Caltech provide free accommodation?
No. Limited summer housing may be available, but students must pay the accommodation costs.
Can students participate remotely?
No. SURF requires in-person research.
When will Caltech announce the results?
Caltech expects to announce SURF awards on 1 April 2027.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is 22 February 2027.
Explore More International Summer Research Opportunities
Students interested in research experience can also explore the MIT Summer Research Program, which offers research opportunities in the United States.
For research experience in Japan, the UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program provides another option for eligible undergraduate students studying at Asian universities.
Students considering European research opportunities can explore the EPFL Summer Research Program and the ETH Summer Research Fellowship.
Each program has different academic requirements, funding arrangements, and deadlines. Therefore, applicants should review the official eligibility conditions before applying.
Final Thoughts
The Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF) 2027 program offers undergraduate students an opportunity to gain research experience at one of the leading scientific institutions in the United States.
Selected fellows receive an $8,354 award and work on research projects under experienced faculty mentors.
Moreover, the program helps participants develop scientific writing, research planning, and presentation skills.
International students can apply for eligible Caltech-campus projects. However, applicants must secure a faculty mentor before submitting their applications.
Interested students should start contacting potential mentors early, prepare a strong research proposal, and complete their applications before the deadline.
Application Deadline: 22 February 2027
Official Sources
Official Program: Caltech SURF
Eligibility Requirements: Caltech SURF Eligibility
Application Procedure: Caltech SURF Application Information
Research Opportunities: SURF Announcements of Opportunity
Finding a Research Mentor: Caltech Mentor Guidance
Frequently Asked Questions: Caltech SURF FAQs
Disclaimer
Pathfinderly.com is an independent information website and is not affiliated with the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Program requirements, research awards, eligibility conditions, deadlines, and application procedures may change. Applicants should verify the latest information through official Caltech sources before applying.