Purdue University Summer Fellowship 2026 and Purdue University, West Lafayette

The Purdue University Summer Fellowship 2026 is now accepting applications, offering a prestigious Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) for students globally. Hosted by one of the leading research institutions in the USA, this program allows undergraduates to conduct intensive research under the guidance of top-tier faculty. Furthermore, the program is fully funded, providing a generous stipend of $6,500 along with additional allowances for international participants. Consequently, aspiring researchers looking to enhance their academic profile should apply before the January deadline to secure a spot in this 11-week immersive experience.

Program Highlights

Feature	Details
Program Title	Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) 2026
Host Institution	Purdue University
Location	West Lafayette or Indianapolis, USA
Duration	11 Weeks (May 25 – August 7, 2026)
Stipend	$6,500 (Total)
Deadline	January 15, 2026

Program Overview

The Purdue University Summer Fellowship 2026 is designed to provide a unique, hands-on research experience for undergraduate students. The program aims to encourage students to pursue advanced education and careers in research by integrating them into Purdue’s vibrant academic community. Participants will work on the West Lafayette or Indianapolis campus, collaborating directly with faculty, graduate students, and postdoctoral mentors.

The fellowship structure is comprehensive, beginning with a remote week followed by ten weeks of in-person research. In addition to laboratory work, the program includes weekly professional development workshops and seminars aimed at building technical and communication skills. The fellowship concludes with a research symposium where participants present their findings, ensuring they gain experience in scientific communication and public speaking.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure a high-quality research cohort, Purdue University has established specific eligibility requirements for the SURF program.

• Enrollment Status: Applicants must be currently enrolled as full-time undergraduate students in a bachelor’s degree program.
• Institution: Open to students from Purdue, other U.S. institutions, and international universities.
• Academic Year: Candidates must have completed at least one academic semester or quarter by the time of application.
• Experience Level: Applicants must be first-time participants in the Purdue SURF program.
• Academic Performance: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8/4.0 (or equivalent) is required.
• Availability: Participants must be available for the entire 11-week duration and actively engage in all program activities.
• Visa Requirements: International applicants must be eligible to obtain a J-1 Visa.

Benefits and Financial Coverage

The Purdue University Summer Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity designed to remove financial barriers for talented researchers.

• Stipend: Fellows receive a total stipend of $6,500, distributed on a bi-weekly basis for their participation.
• Housing Allowance: International students are eligible for an additional $2,500 housing allowance.
• Travel Reimbursement: Travel costs are reimbursed for international participants and students whose home university is not the research location.
• Mentorship: Access to expert guidance from top-notch faculty and graduate mentors.
• Professional Development: Participation in seminars and workshops to enhance research and soft skills.
• Networking: Engagement in social gatherings and the final SURF Symposium.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents to complete their online application:

• CV/Resume: An updated academic curriculum vitae.
• University Transcript: Official records of current academic standing.
• Statement of Purpose: A research essay following the guidelines on the official website.
• Letter of Recommendation: Required for non-Purdue students only.

Registration Details

The application process is entirely online. Candidates must ensure all sections are completed accurately before the deadline.

Detail	Information
Application Portal	Application Link
Deadline	January 15, 2026
Program Start	May 25, 2026
Mode	Online Application

Application Process

• Step 1: Access the official SURF application portal via the Purdue University website.
• Step 2: Create an account and fill in the required personal and academic information.
• Step 3: Answer all mandatory questions marked with an asterisk (*).
• Step 4: Upload the necessary documents (Resume, Transcript, SOP).
• Step 5: Review the application carefully and submit it before January 15, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Purdue University Summer Fellowship 2026 open to international students?

Yes, the program is open to undergraduate students from all over the world, provided they are currently enrolled in a degree program and eligible for a J-1 Visa.

2. Is the fellowship fully funded?

Yes, selected fellows receive a $6,500 stipend. Additionally, international students receive a housing allowance and travel reimbursement.

3. What is the minimum GPA required?

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale.

4. Can I apply if I have participated in SURF before?

No, the program is strictly for first-time participants.

5. What are the dates for the 2026 program?

The program runs from May 25 to August 7, 2026. The first week (May 25-31) is remote, while the remainder is in-person.