Help build what’s next.
The RPI Undergraduate Research Fellowship recognizes outstanding incoming students who have the ambition to go beyond the classroom and contribute to the work of discovery.
Fellows receive a four-year* award of full tuition and fees, along with a guaranteed research placement during their first year. It’s an opportunity to begin your undergraduate career with the resources, mentorship, and intellectual freedom to pursue questions that matter.
*Five years for students in the School of Architecture; three years during RPI residency in the Physician-Scientist (BS/MD) Program.
Take advantage of a distinguished undergraduate experience.
As an RPI Undergraduate Research Fellow, you’ll receive:
- Full tuition and fees toward your undergraduate degree.
- A guaranteed first-year research placement in a lab, studio, or workshop within your school or department.
Your fellowship begins with research, but the possibilities extend throughout your RPI career. While placements after the first year are not guaranteed, fellows remain eligible to apply for available positions for academic credit or payment.
The Process
The RPI Undergraduate Research Fellowship is designed for students who have demonstrated exceptional academic promise and a strong interest in intellectual exploration.
Submit your application for admission to RPI by the November 1 Early Decision I, December 1 Early Action, or January 6 Early Decision II deadline to be considered for fellowship eligibility.
Students who submit an application to RPI by the above deadlines will see the option to apply for the fellowship as part of their application checklist.
The application is intentionally focused. You’ll submit:
- A brief essay explaining why you want to do undergraduate research at RPI.
- A resume highlighting research experience.
Use your essay to tell us what you want to explore, what drives your curiosity, and how you hope to make the most of the opportunity to conduct research as an undergraduate.
Fellowship applications will be reviewed by our selection committee, with offers extended in mid-March.
Students must accept their offer and submit their deposit by the May 1 enrollment deadline to be part of the fall cohort of RPI Undergraduate Research Fellows. This decision cannot be deferred.
Over the summer, incoming fellows will be matched with a research opportunity in their school or department, preparing them to begin their research experience from the first year on campus.
Start with a question. Go further.
The Undergraduate Research Fellowship is an investment in students who are ready to ask hard questions, pursue new ideas, and take an active role in the work of discovery.
Four years of full tuition and fees. A guaranteed research experience. And the opportunity to shape where your curiosity takes you.
