REU stands for Research Experiences for Undergraduates funded by The National Science Foundation (NSF).
There are many research interest areas, but most are STEM related!
REU sites are located all over the Unites States. The International Research Experiences for Students (IRES) is another National Science Foundation-funded program that supports international research and may involve student travel.
Use the search terms “REU site international” to find these programs or consult the directory of active IRES awards.
Every deadline will be different, with some application deadlines as early as December and as late as April! You should check each application deadline on the host site informational page.
An REU Site consists of a group of ten or so undergraduates who work in the research programs of the host institution. Each student is associated with a specific research project, where he/she works closely with the faculty and other researchers.
Students are granted stipends and, in many cases, assistance with housing and travel.
Undergraduate students supported with NSF funds must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States or its possessions.
REU programs are an excellent opportunity for students to explore their research interests and gain valuable research experience. It can provide you an opportunity to learn about a possible graduate school of interest. It can also expand your list of professors to serve as references for future employment or grad school applications.
You’ll want to be intentional about what location and research areas you’re interested in, but the standard is as many as 15 applications. With at least two references for each application.
Click here for a list of current REU programs. Be sure to click the links underneath the name of the program for program details and application information.