Purdue University SURF Program 2026 in USA | Fully Funded Summer Research Fellowship

The Purdue University Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) Program 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded summer research opportunity for undergraduate students from around the world who are interested in gaining hands-on research experience in the United States.

Through this paid 11-week program, selected students will work closely with faculty mentors at Purdue University while receiving a $6,500 stipend, housing support, and travel reimbursement.

The program is designed to prepare undergraduates for graduate studies and research-driven careers.

Purdue University SURF Program at a Glance

• Host Country: United States of America (USA)
• Study Abroad: Study in the USA
• Category: Undergraduate Scholarships | Research Fellowships
• Eligible Countries: All Countries
• Program Duration: 11 Weeks (Summer)
• Reward: $6,500 Stipend | Housing Allowance | Travel Support
• IELTS Required: No
• Application Deadline: January 15, 2026

 About the Purdue University SURF Program

The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) at Purdue University offers an intensive research experience aimed at encouraging undergraduates to pursue advanced education and careers in research and innovation.

Participants conduct supervised research at Purdue’s West Lafayette or Indianapolis campus under the guidance of faculty members, graduate students, or postdoctoral researchers. In addition to research activities, students take part in weekly professional development workshops focused on research skills, academic writing, and career planning.

The program concludes with a SURF Research Symposium, where fellows present their research findings. Participants are also required to submit a final written report to their mentors and the Engineering Undergraduate Research Office (EURO).

 Eligibility Requirements for Purdue SURF 2026

To be eligible for the Purdue University SURF Program, applicants must:

• Be currently enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student at Purdue University, another U.S. institution, or an international university
• Be a first-time applicant to the Purdue SURF program
• Have completed at least one academic semester or quarter before applying
• Remain enrolled as an undergraduate for at least one academic term after the SURF program ends
• Be a rising junior or senior (Purdue-affiliated rising sophomores are also eligible)
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent
• Be available to actively participate in most program activities (late start of up to one week may be approved with faculty consent)

Benefits of Purdue University SURF Program 2026

Selected fellows will receive the following benefits:

• $6,500 Stipend: Paid bi-weekly for the full 11-week program
• Housing Allowance: Up to $2,500 for accommodation
• Travel Reimbursement: Up to $1,000 for eligible external and Purdue–Indianapolis students
• Faculty Mentorship: One-on-one guidance from experienced researchers
• Professional Development Seminars: Training in research methods, communication, and graduate school preparation
• Research Symposium: Opportunity to present findings to the Purdue academic community
• Networking Opportunities: Interaction with faculty, researchers, and fellow participants
• Skill Development: Enhanced technical, analytical, and communication skills

 Required Documents for Purdue SURF Application

Applicants should prepare the following documents:

• Completed online application form
• Updated resume
• Official or unofficial university transcript (PDF format)
• Statement of Purpose
• Letter of Recommendation (required for external applicants)

Also Apply: Montana State University Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded in USA

US Wells Mountain Initiative Scholarship: Apply

 How to Apply for Purdue University SURF Program 2026 (Step-by-Step)

Follow these steps to apply for the Purdue University SURF Program:

1. Complete the online SURF application form

2. Upload your resume

3. Upload a PDF copy of your university transcript showing courses, grades, and current enrollment

4. Submit a well-written Statement of Purpose outlining your research interests and career goals

5. External applicants should request a Letter of Recommendation from a professor or professional mentor

6. Review the list of available SURF research projects

7. Select up to three research projects of interest directly in the application

8. Engage with Purdue faculty members to discuss research interests and potential lab opportunities

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early, as the Purdue SURF Program is highly competitive.

Submit Your Application Here

Happy Applying and congratulations in advance