We are now accepting applications for summer 2024.
Program Dates: June 3 - August 9, 2024
Initial review of applications will begin on April 10. However, we will continue to accept new applications and recommendation letters until the program is full, so please consider applying even after this date!
Please note that we typically cannot provide a specific date for notification of declined applicants, because this depends on how long it takes for accepted students to confirm their spots in the program.
Eligibility
This program is for enthusiastic and motivated students enrolled in a computer science or related undergraduate program. Applicants should have basic understanding of programming at the start of the summer, but prior research experience is not necessary.
Students that identify as members of underrepresented groups in computer science, first-generation college students, and those at institutions with limited research access (e.g., liberal arts or community colleges) are particularly encouraged to apply.
Specific eligibility requirements include:
- Citizen or permanent resident of the United States. Note that this is a hard requirement and no exceptions can be made.
- Enrolled full time at an academic institution as part of an undergraduate program.*
- Will not have already earned a B.S. or B.A. degree before the summer program.
- Available full-time (40 hours per week, Monday through Friday) during the ten week program.**
- Basic programming skills evidenced by the computer science courses listed on your transcript(s).
* Current University of Minnesota students who would like to participate in the REU site are welcome to apply, but please note that these spots are very limited.
** The REU program is designed as a cohort experience. Requests to shift the start and end dates will only be considered in rare circumstances with sufficient justification.
During our review process, we will evaluate each student based on a collection of materials including transcripts, application form, statement of purpose, and a recommendation letter. We will be looking for enthusiastic students that are strongly motivated to pursue opportunities that advance them academically, professionally, and personally. Most importantly, we are looking for students that are excited about research in human-centered computing!
Application Instructions
You can apply for the 2024 REU program using the application form.
You will need the following materials to submit the application:
- The most recent unofficial transcript from your undergraduate institution (PDF). Please note that official transcripts sometimes are provided in formats that make it difficult for our system to process.
- A personal statement. This is the most important part of your application, so you will want to make sure it is thoughtful, well-written, and spell/grammar checked. Examples of topics you may write about include: how you came to be interested in research, examples of previous challenges and how you overcame them, your reasons for wanting to participate in the REU program, and how this summer research experience might better prepare you to meet your future goals. Expressing your enthusiasm is the most important factor, so you will want to make sure this comes across in your personal statement!
- A ranking of the faculty mentors listed on the research projects page. Make sure to read their project descriptions and check out the websites of each faculty member. You will also be asked to select all of the projects that you would potentially be interested in working on. These choices are important because they will determine which mentors will evaluate your application.
- The contact information for a faculty member or professional reference that will provide a letter of recommendation.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at [email protected].