Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship 2026 and WHOI, USA (Feb 1, 2026)

The Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship 2026 is now accepting applications, offering a prestigious gateway for undergraduates to conduct world-class research in the United States. For students passionate about ocean sciences and engineering, this fully funded program provides an unparalleled opportunity to work alongside leading experts at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI). Consequently, selected fellows will gain hands-on experience, making the most of their summer in the USA while advancing their academic careers.

This international fellowship is specifically designed to engage students in a meaningful research project chosen in partnership with a sponsor. Furthermore, the program covers a wide array of disciplines, from biology and chemistry to marine policy and geophysics. Therefore, aspiring researchers who wish to spend their summer in the United States pursuing a paid fellowship should apply immediately for this transformative experience.

Program Highlights

Feature	Details
Program Title	Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship 2026
Host Institution	Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)
Location	USA
Program Duration	10 to 12 Weeks
Stipend	$721 per week
Deadline	February 1, 2026

Program Overview

The Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship aims to provide aspiring scientists and engineers with a unique platform to engage in high-level research. Specifically, the projects cover extensive areas within ocean sciences and engineering, including activities conducted by WHOI’s science departments and the US Geological Survey’s Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center. Through this dynamic program, participants are expected to produce meaningful results by the end of the summer.

In addition to laboratory work, the fellowship offers a rich educational experience. Fellows participate in a weekly Summer Lecture Series and an Ethics in Science Workshop. A major highlight of the program is the hands-on ocean sampling cruise aboard the R/V Tioga, where students explore data collection techniques using advanced oceanographic instruments.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure a competitive and capable cohort, the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution has established specific eligibility requirements.

• Academic Status: Applicants must be undergraduate students who will finish their junior year before the fellowship begins.
• Graduation Restriction: Students graduating before the fellowship start date are ineligible to apply.
• International Students: The program welcomes applications from international students from around the world.
• Degree Year Requirements: Students in a 3-year Bachelor’s program (e.g., UK) must be in their second year. Those in a 5-year combined Bachelor/Master’s program must be in their third year.
• Diversity: Individuals from underrepresented groups in ocean science and engineering are strongly encouraged to apply.

Available Fields of Study

Priority is given to students studying science or engineering disciplines. The core fields include:

• Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
• Engineering, Geology, and Geophysics.
• Mathematics, Meteorology, and Oceanography.
• Marine Policy.

Financial Benefits and Support

This is a fully funded fellowship designed to remove financial barriers for participants.

• Weekly Stipend: Fellows receive a stipend of $721 per week for the 10 to 12-week duration.
• Accommodation: The award includes Institution housing for all selected fellows.
• Mentorship: Students get to interact with MIT-WHOI Joint Program graduate students and receive mentorship throughout the summer.
• Career Exposure: The program provides valuable insights for those aiming for careers in ocean science and engineering.

Application Requirements

Candidates must prepare the following documents for the online application:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): A current resume or CV.
• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts from your current university.
• Essays: Answers to short essay questions (research statement).
• Recommendations: Two letters of recommendation.

Important Dates

Activity	Date
Application Deadline	February 1, 2026
Fellowship Period	Summer 2026 (10-12 Weeks)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship 2026?

Undergraduate students who have completed their junior year but have not yet graduated are eligible. International students are also welcome to apply.

2. Is this fellowship fully funded?

Yes, it is a fully funded fellowship. Participants receive a weekly stipend of $721 and institutional housing.

3. What documents are needed for the application?

You need to submit a CV/Resume, unofficial transcripts, short essay answers, and two letters of recommendation.

4. Can international students apply?

Yes, the Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship explicitly welcomes international students from various parts of the world.

5. What is the deadline for the application?

The deadline to submit your application is February 1, 2026.