Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) 2026 in USA

Overview

The Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) 2026 is one of the most prestigious summer research programs available to undergraduate students worldwide. Hosted by the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in Pasadena, California, this 10-week research experience allows students to work closely with leading faculty mentors on cutting-edge scientific and engineering projects.

SURF is modeled on real academic research: from developing a research idea with a faculty mentor, writing a research proposal, conducting original research, and finally presenting results both in written and oral formats. It mirrors the professional research process and prepares participants for graduate study or research careers.

SURF Program

The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship at Caltech has been empowering students since 1979. SURF engages undergraduates in authentic research experiences across a wide range of disciplines — from physics and biology to computer science and engineering. Over the 10-week summer period, students dedicate full-time effort to their research under the supervision of experienced faculty mentors.

SURF participants are expected to:

Collaborate with a faculty mentor to define a research project.
Write and submit a research proposal as part of the application.
Conduct independent research for 10 weeks.
Submit two interim reports and a final technical paper.
Present their work in an oral presentation at a professional-style forum.

In addition to research work, SURF Fellows attend weekly seminars, participate in professional development workshops, and engage in social and scientific community events that enrich the experience.

Financial Support

One of the major advantages of SURF is its financial award. For Summer 2026, each SURF Fellow will receive a stipend of $8,110 for the 10-week period.

While the fellowship does not automatically include housing and travel, students can apply for on-campus housing at a guest rate and make personal arrangements for travel to Pasadena. Students working with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) through SURF@JPL may receive additional enrichment and activities.

Throughout the summer, students engage with ongoing research projects, gain hands-on experience with laboratory and analytical tools, and develop communication skills through report writing and presentations. These elements make SURF a transformative academic milestone for undergraduates.

Eligibility & Who Can Apply

SURF is open to undergraduate students from Caltech and other universities, both within the United States and internationally. While specific GPA requirements and eligibility criteria can vary slightly by program track, all applicants must:

Be continuing undergraduate students (enrolled for the upcoming academic year).
Devote full-time effort (cannot take courses or hold other jobs during SURF).
Have completed sufficient coursework for the chosen research area (prerequisites vary by discipline).

Non-Caltech students typically need to submit an unofficial transcript with the application, and if awarded a fellowship, must provide an official transcript later.

How to Apply — Key Steps

Applying to the Caltech SURF 2026 program involves several important steps:

1. Find a Faculty Mentor

Before you apply, you must identify and contact a Caltech faculty mentor who agrees to supervise your project and help refine your research proposal. This mentor also endorses your application.

2. Write a Research Proposal

Work with your mentor to prepare a detailed research proposal that outlines your project goals, methods, and expected outcomes. This is a critical part of the SURF application and is reviewed by faculty committees.

3. Submit the Online Application

Applications are submitted through the SFP Online system with required materials: the proposal, transcripts (for non-Caltech students), and two letters of recommendation (one typically from a faculty member).

4. Application Deadline

The deadline for SURF 2026 applications is February 22, 2026. The results are usually announced by April 1, 2026.

SURF Is Worth It

SURF provides a real research experience that goes beyond classroom learning. You’ll:

Build deeper expertise in your chosen field.
Publish or present research in professional settings.
Expand your academic network and mentorship opportunities.
Strengthen your application for graduate school or research careers.

Many SURF alumni go on to top graduate programs, research careers, and academic leadership roles. It remains a hallmark of excellence in undergraduate research training.

Final Thoughts

The Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) 2026 is a remarkable opportunity for ambitious undergraduates who want to immerse themselves in rigorous research, expand their academic horizons, and grow professionally within a supportive community of scholars.

If you’re driven by curiosity and ready to take your research abilities to the next level, this fully supported summer program could be the perfect launchpad for your future career.
Apply now