Internship · United States · Fully funded
Purdue University SURF Summer Research Fellowship 2027 in USA
Updated 2 November 2026
Open
Purdue University's Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) gives undergraduates from around the world the chance to spend a summer doing real research in engineering and science labs at Purdue, in Indiana, USA. Fellows work with faculty mentors and graduate students on cutting-edge projects, then present their work at a research symposium.
What fellows receive
- A US$6,500 stipend, paid every two weeks during the 10-week programme
- A US$2,500 housing allowance for students from other universities
- Hands-on research experience and mentoring
- Presentation at the SURF Research Symposium
You arrange your own housing (Purdue offers summer residence and intern housing options).
Programme dates (summer 2027)
| Stage |
Date |
| Remote start |
31 May – 4 June 2027 |
| Move-in |
5–6 June 2027 |
| Orientation and in-person research |
7 June – 30 July 2027 |
| Research symposium |
29 July 2027 |
| Move-out |
31 July – 1 August 2027 |
Who can apply
- Full-time undergraduate students at Purdue, other US universities, or universities outside the US
- Completed at least one semester or quarter by the time you apply
- A GPA of 2.8/4.0 or higher
- Enrolled for at least one semester after the programme
- Not taking other courses, internships or summer programmes during SURF
Documents you need
- An academic CV or résumé
- An unofficial transcript
- A statement of purpose: how you came to your field, why you want SURF, how it fits your career goals, your preparation so far, and any challenges you've overcome
- One recommendation letter from a professor or professional who knows your work well (required for non-Purdue students)
How to apply
- Read the information on the official Purdue SURF page.
- Prepare your CV, transcript and statement of purpose.
- Ask your recommender early, so their letter arrives on time.
- Submit your application online when it opens in early November.
- International applicants: apply by 15 December 2026.
Key dates
| Stage |
Date |
| Applications open |
Early November 2026 |
| International deadline |
15 December 2026 |
| Priority deadline (US applicants) |
15 January 2027 |
Tips
- Choose projects that match your skills and mention them in your statement.
- Show your research curiosity, through class projects, lab work or competitions.
- Plan your visa early. International fellows need a US visa for the summer.
- Applying is free. Never pay anyone to apply for you.