FAQs:

eligibility

Q: I am finishing my undergraduate program this spring, so technically I won't be an undergraduate during the summer. Am I still eligible?
A: Our program is really focused on undergraduates, so if you have completed your undergraduate program (regardless of when the ceremony happens) then you would not be eligible.

Q: I can't attend during the dates that are specified on the program website (because my exams will not be finished, or some other reason). Is it possible for me to do the REU program with a different start-date and/or different end-date?
A: Our program is structured such that all of the participants receive the introductory material together, stay in the same dormitories, and give presentations on the same dates. We are constrained by several factors, not the least of which are the availabilities of the dorms and the research mentors. Unfortunately we cannot offer any flexibility in the dates of the program.

application procedure

Q: What materials are required for the application?
A: an unofficial transcript, evaluation forms and recommendation letters from two faculty members, and an application form should be submitted.

Q: Is an unofficial copy of transcript acceptable for the application process?
A: Yes, an unofficial transcript from your college(s) is acceptable and must be submitted electronically when you submit the application form. However, once you are selected, you are required to submit an official transcript by your school before you can be accepted in the program.

Q: I have filled in the application form. But when I submit it, I am told to choose the mentors, which I have done already. What should I do?
A: Most likely your browser does not support JavaScript. Try "Submit (no JavaScript)" at the bottom of the application form.

Q: I have sent in the application and wish to know if you have received all the materials. How can I know that?
A: because of the large volume of applications, we do not notify every applicant about receipt of the materials. It is your responsibility to urge your professors to send in all the documents in a timely manner. However, about a week or ten days before the deadline of the application, you will receive an email from us if some documents are missing in your application. If you do not hear from us during the last week before the deadline, it means that your application is complete.

Q: I was thinking to submit my resume for it might strengthen my application for the program.
A: No, please don't. The required entires in the on-line application form should already serve the purpose of a resume, and so your resume will likely be ignored.

after application

Q: when will I hear from you about whether I am selected or not?
A: If you have submitted a complete application, you will be notified of the result of your application by the end of March.

Q: I am not selected in your program. May I know why?
A: we review all complete applications. Because of the very competitive nature of the program, unfortunately, only a small number of candidates may be selected each summer. The selections are made based on mentors' evaluation of applicants' qualification.