FAQs

What are the dates for the SURE Program?

The SURE program will begin in late May and will run through the first week of August.

What is included in the SURE program?

You will be provided with housing accommodations and Flex Dollars to cover meals. Additionally, all students will receive a summer stipend disbursed in equal payments over the summer (in past summers this stipend has been $6,000).

What about travel expenses?

Allowable round-trip travel expenses to and from the summer program will be reimbursed subject to the Columbia University travel policy. For local students, reimbursement is available for public transit subject to the Columbia University travel policy.

Am I expected to use my summer stipend to cover anything during the program?

While housing and most meals are covered by the SURE program, you should anticipate using some of your stipend funds to support yourself over the summer. Past expenses for students have included: meals outside of allowable flex dollar vendors or SURE-sponsored events, weekend activities, and professional attire.

What will I be doing during the program?

You will be working on your research project with your faculty mentors, attending weekly seminar series, touring industry facilities, and interacting with other summer research students and industry mentors. You will also have the opportunity to participate in special cultural and social programs on and off campus. Finally, your hard work will culminate in an end-of-summer research symposium that invites the Columbia campus and community to participate in celebrating your achievements.

What are the application requirements?

Applicants must complete the online application and personal statement; upload all college transcripts (unofficial is fine), a CV/resume, and one letter of recommendation. No prior research experience is required. Students must be entering their junior or senior years of college after the program.

When do I find out if I am accepted?

All applicants will be notified no later than late February.

When do I find out what projects I will be working on?

SURE students will be matched after participants have been accepted. We encourage you to read the web pages for our faculty to understand some of the possible opportunities and let us know if there is an area of particular interest. Suppose you do not know which particular research project interests you. In that case, you will be matched with an appropriate mentor where you will gain insight and understanding into the research process and good hands-on experience. You will be notified of your faculty mentor match before the program begins. Each student’s major, research preference, and experience are taken into careful consideration regarding project match. Please note that while we will do our best to match you with mentors of interest, faculty availability is subject to change prior to the start of the program. 

Are international students allowed to apply?

Unfortunately, we are only able to offer admission to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and individuals with DACA status. Students on visa are not eligible for consideration.

Are both undergraduate and graduate students eligible for this program?

Current undergraduate students are eligible for this program. Graduating seniors should not apply. If you will be graduating before the start of the program, you are not eligible for consideration. If you are are graduate student, you are not eligible for consideration.

How can I make sure my application stands out?

Be yourself. There are no tips or tricks to getting accepted. This program is designed to support students in their pursuits as burgeoning researchers. To this end, we do not expect you to have research experience, though you will not be penalized for having experience. We do expect that you have a strong and compelling interest in research and can clearly articulate what those interests are. Your personal statement is your chance to show us who you are beyond your grades.

If you have questions, send us an email at [email protected]