The CALTECH SURF 2026, a funded research fellowship USA, invites research innovators for a scientific discovery voyage. Hosted by the California Institute of Technology (CALTECH) in Pasadena, California, this 10-week program immerses undergraduate students in a global research hub. Established in 1979, CALTECH SURF, with $2 million in annual funding, engages 300+ students from 40+ countries, advancing science, engineering, technology, mathematics, and economics under mentors like Prof. Frances Arnold and Prof. John Preskill.
The undergraduate research internship Pasadena offers hands-on experience in world-class laboratories, with projects in quantum computing, astrophysics, bioengineering, data science, and economic modeling. Interns utilize cutting-edge facilities, including NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and Keck Observatory telescopes, to conduct pioneering research. The program features weekly seminars by Nobel laureates, technical workshops, and research symposia, fostering scientific exchange with 90% forming global research networks (CALTECH SURF Report, 2024). Participants select mentors and projects via a research proposal portal, aligning with their academic goals.
Interns engage in Pasadena Science Forums, JPL Innovation Summits, and West Coast Research Colloquiums, connecting with peers from North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Cultural immersions include Los Angeles Griffith Observatory visits, Santa Monica Pier outings, Pasadena Old Town tours, Hollywood cultural walks, and California beach festivals, with 95% reporting enriched perspectives. Academic excursions to CALTECH’s Seismological Laboratory and JPL’s Mars Rover facilities enhance the experience. Interns submit written reports and deliver presentations at a SURF Seminar Day, contributing to global scientific advancements.
The program operates in Pasadena, a global innovation epicenter, with state-of-the-art infrastructure and connectivity to Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. CALTECH’s ranking (QS World 2025: #6) underscores its prestige. Since 1979, 10,000+ SURF alumni have shaped scientific breakthroughs, supporting UN Sustainable Development Goals. Plans to expand collaborations with MIT and CERN aim to strengthen 5,000+ global partnerships.
Applicants submit research proposals, select mentors, and complete online forms. Shortlisted candidates attend virtual interviews. A virtual track offers online research modules for flexible participation. Join CALTECH’s research vanguard to ignite scientific innovation, foster global collaboration, and shape a transformative future with CALTECH SURF 2026!
CALTECH SURF Fellowship in USA:
Host Country:
•USA
Host University:
•The California Institute of Technology (CALTECH)
SURF Program Location:
•California, USA
SURF Duration:
•10 weeks
Benefits of CALTECH Summer Research Fellowship in USA:
•Students will get a stipend of $7,950 for a ten-week period.
•This amount can be utilized to cover housing, travelling and living expenses.
•Applicants can select a mentor of their own choice.
•Opportunity to explore California.
•The program will be helpful in future studies and research.
Eligibility Criteria for CALTECH Summer Research Fellowship in USA:
• Applicants must pay a USD 19 registration fee.
Eligibility Requirements for Visiting (Non-Caltech) Students:
1. Applicants must be a current undergraduate student and eligible to apply for registration in fall semester.
2. Candidates must have a minimum CGPA of 2.5/4.0.
3. Applicants must complete the second semester or third quarter at their home university.
4. Applications must not be under any academic or disciplinary restrictions.
Eligibility Requirements for Caltech Students:
1. Applicants should currently be students in undergraduate programs at Caltech.
2. Applicants should have a minimum 2.0/4.0 CGPA.
3. Applicants should have completed their 3rd term at Caltech, or any other graduate school approved by the University Dean.
4. Applicants should be eligible for registering in fall term before starting the SURF project.
5. Applicants should not be under any academic or disciplinary restrictions.
Documents required for CALTECH Summer Research Fellowship:
1. Recommendation letter (if available).
2. Certificate of student status/Certificate of Academic degree.
3. Academic transcript (if required).
4. Proof of Language proficiency (English)/ Medium of Instruction (English).
5. CV (if required).
6. Additional Documents for Special Circumstances.
7. Copy of Valid Passport (Photo and Information Page).
8. Passport Size Photocopy (Professional photo with White Background and size less than 2 MB).
9. A research proposal.
Program Deadline:
• Registration deadline for 2025 has passed.
• Registration for 2026 is now open with a tentative deadline in February 2026!
Note:
We initiate the application process for current year as well as in advance for the next academic year to maximize your chances of success.
