Apply for the MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP) 2026 — a fully funded 9-week research experience at MIT (June 8–August 8, 2026). Receive mentorship, a stipend, housing, and travel support while preparing for graduate school. Application deadline: January 20, 2026.
Overview
The MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP) offers a fully funded summer research opportunity for talented undergraduate students interested in pursuing graduate studies in science, engineering, or related fields.
Since its founding in 1986, the program has aimed to broaden participation in research and innovation, helping undergraduates from diverse backgrounds gain valuable research experience, mentorship, and academic preparation for graduate school at MIT and beyond.
Each summer, selected students join MIT’s vibrant research community to conduct cutting-edge projects under the guidance of world-class faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate mentors.
Application Deadline: January 20, 2026
Program Dates: June 8 – August 8, 2026
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, USA
Funding: Fully Funded (includes stipend, housing, meals, and travel)
Program Goals
The MIT Summer Research Program seeks to:
- Promote graduate education as an attainable and meaningful career goal.
- Broaden diversity and inclusion in research and innovation fields.
- Prepare undergraduates for graduate study at MIT and other top-tier institutions.
- Build a strong pipeline of future researchers and innovators across disciplines.
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Program Features
Participants in the MSRP 2026 cohort will benefit from a well-rounded academic and professional experience, including:
- Mentored Research Experience:
Work full-time on a faculty-led research project with guidance from postdoctoral fellows and graduate mentors. - Graduate School Preparation:
Receive personalized advising on graduate admissions, writing statements of purpose, and choosing research paths. - Professional Development Seminars:
Attend weekly sessions focused on research communication, leadership, academic careers, and diversity in STEM. - Community and Networking:
Connect with a diverse community of student researchers, MIT faculty, and alumni. - Social and Cultural Events:
Participate in outings such as Boston tours, boat cruises, and campus gatherings. - Capstone Presentation:
Present your research in a poster session at the program’s conclusion and submit a research paper and abstract.
Participant Benefits
1. Financial Support
- Competitive weekly stipend
- Round-trip travel to MIT
- Housing provided on MIT’s campus
- Meal allowance included
2. Academic and Research Access
- Work in state-of-the-art laboratories across MIT departments
- Access to MIT’s libraries, athletic facilities, and health services
3. Scholarly Opportunities
- Potential to co-author research papers with faculty mentors
- Exposure to interdisciplinary projects in science, technology, and innovation
4. Professional Development
- Guidance on graduate school applications and funding options
- Skill-building in academic writing, data analysis, and scientific communication
Program Structure for MIT Summer Research Program
| Phase | Description |
|---|---|
| Orientation (Week 1) | Introduction to MIT’s research ecosystem, lab safety, and mentorship training. |
| Research (Weeks 2–8) | Full-time lab work under faculty and graduate supervision. |
| Presentation (Week 9) | Submit a research paper, abstract, and present findings at the final poster session. |
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the MIT Summer Research Program (MSRP), candidates must:
- Be undergraduate students enrolled in a degree-granting institution.
- Have a strong academic record (preferably with a GPA above 3.0 or equivalent).
- Have completed at least two years of college coursework by the start of the program.
- Demonstrate interest in pursuing graduate studies (Ph.D. or Master’s programs).
- Be 18 years or older by June 2026.
International students studying at U.S. institutions are eligible to apply.
Application Process
Deadline: January 20, 2026
Application Components:
- Online Application Form (available on MIT MSRP website)
- Academic Transcript
- Resume/CV
- Statement of Purpose outlining research interests and career goals
- Two Recommendation Letters from academic or research mentors
Applicants are encouraged to attend the virtual application workshops for tips and guidance:
- November 6, 2025 | 12:00–1:00 PM ET
- December 10, 2025 | 4:00–5:00 PM ET
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Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | October 2025 |
| Application Deadline | January 20, 2026 |
| Program Start | June 8, 2026 |
| Program End | August 8, 2026 |
Testimonials
“The MSRP experience helped me realize that I belong in research. The mentorship and community I found at MIT inspired me to apply for graduate school.”
— MSRP 2025 Fellow
“Working in a real MIT lab and presenting my research at the final symposium gave me confidence and clarity in pursuing my Ph.D.”
— Former MSRP Participant
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the program fully funded?
Yes. MSRP provides a stipend, travel reimbursement, housing, and meal support.
2. Who is eligible to apply?
Undergraduate students (including international students at U.S. institutions) with strong academic backgrounds and interest in graduate studies.
3. Can I apply if I’m a senior graduating in 2026?
Yes, as long as you have not yet begun graduate school by the program start date.
4. Do I need prior research experience?
No. Prior research experience is helpful but not required.
5. What are the research areas covered?
Participants can conduct research in any MIT department, including engineering, computer science, physics, biology, chemistry, mathematics, and social sciences.
6. Do I need to secure a faculty mentor before applying?
No. The program will match selected participants with appropriate mentors based on their research interests.
7. Is there an application fee?
No. There is no fee to apply to the MIT Summer Research Program.
8. How competitive is the program?
Highly competitive — applicants are selected based on academic achievement, motivation for graduate study, and alignment with MIT’s research areas.
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