[California Institute of Technology](https://www.caltech.edu)

January 2027: Full application deadline (projected) | January 2027: Letters of recommendation deadline (projected)

$6,000 stipend for 10 weeks, plus on-campus housing and ~$1,000 for dining and travel

10-week summer undergraduate STEM research experience at Caltech, providing mentored research, professional development, and community-building.

--- ## Description The WAVE Fellows program at Caltech is a 10-week summer undergraduate research experience aimed at increasing the visibility and accessibility of Caltech's PhD programs to undergraduates in STEM fields who are seriously considering graduate school. Fellows collaborate with faculty mentors to define and execute an independent research project, culminating in written reports and a formal presentation. The program also features weekly seminars by Caltech faculty and JPL scientists, professional development workshops, academic writing support, and a range of social and cultural activities to foster professional growth and community among future researchers. --- ## Due Dates - January 2027: Full application deadline (anticipated/projected) - January 2027: Letters of recommendation deadline (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Each WAVE Fellow receives a $6,000 stipend for the 10-week period. - Additional support includes on-campus housing and a supplement of approximately $1,000 for dining and travel expenses. --- ## Eligibility - Open to undergraduates in STEM fields who are seriously considering pursuing a PhD. - Applicants must identify several potential Caltech faculty mentors with whom they are interested in working. - Applicants are evaluated based on academic preparation, prior research experience, clarity of research interests and career goals, alignment with a Caltech mentor, and demonstrated interest in pursuing a PhD. - Two letters of recommendation from faculty (or former research mentors) and an unofficial transcript are required. - The program is open to students from diverse backgrounds; Caltech encourages applications from those who will contribute to the diversity of perspectives in STEM. --- ## Application Process - Submit an online application via the [SFP Online system](https://sfponline.caltech.edu/). - Provide contact information for two recommenders (faculty or research mentors) who will submit letters of recommendation directly to the system. - Upload an unofficial transcript. - Clearly state research interests and identify possible Caltech research mentors. - If selected, applicants will be matched with a mentor and must submit a project plan after consultation. - Awards are offered upon confirmation of the mentor match. - Notifications are sent on a rolling basis in early March. --- ## Additional Information - Fellows are strongly encouraged to live on campus. - The program includes weekly seminars, professional development workshops, writing support, and social/cultural activities. - Fellows present their research at Seminar Days, modeled after professional technical meetings. - Supported by multiple Caltech divisions and external partners. --- ## External Links - [WAVE Fellows Program Overview](https://sfp.caltech.edu/undergraduate-research/programs/wavefellows) - [Application Information](https://sfp.caltech.edu/undergraduate-research/programs/wavefellows/application_information) - [SFP Online Application Portal](https://sfponline.caltech.edu/) --- ## Contact Information | Type | Details | |-------------------|----------------------------------------------| | Phone | (626) 395-6811 | | General Contact | [Caltech Contact Page](https://www.caltech.edu/contact) | ---

WAVE Fellows

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