Table of Contents
What can I expect from an REU?
During an REU, you learn a lot about a general research field, and even more about a specific research problem… but you also learn a huge amount about collaborative work. You will certainly work closely with your faculty adviser, but you will also find collaborators in your peers in the lab and in the REU.
Is an REU prestigious?
NSF-REUs are extremely competitive and ‘prestigious’. They are normally research positions that are fully-funded, more on the money later, which last 6-10 weeks during the summer. During my undergraduate, I was able to attend 3 different REU programs all over the country.
How hard is it to get an NSF REU?
REU programs are highly competitive and you should apply to several programs to maximize your chances of an acceptance. Most students apply to around 10-15 programs, and at least 8 is reasonable.
Is REU good for grad school?
What an REU gives you is the time and funding to accomplish something, but if you don’t, it will arguably look slightly worse for you than for someone who didn’t even have that opportunity. For the most part, it definitely helps with future graduate school admissions.
Are REU programs good?
REU programs are an excellent opportunity for students to explore their research interests and gain valuable research experience. Helps you to decide if you are graduate school material. Provides and opportunity to learn about a possible graduate school of interest.
What are my chances of getting into an REU?
When I applied to my REUs at MBL and RMBL, there was a 2.6\% chance of getting in. For each REU, there were 8-12 spots and hundreds of applicants. The odds are not automatically in your favor, and you need to maximize your chances by applying to as many REU’s as you and your advisor feel confident in.
Is an REU an internship?
REU (Research Experiences for Undergraduates) is a NSF (National Science Foundation) Paid Summer Internship. There are other summer programs that are not NSF funded, but the same principles apply.
Is an REU a job?
An REU is a summer job. Every NSF-sponsored REU provides a stipend to every U.S. citizen or permanent resident participant. Some REUs have funding for international students as well. Most REUs provide housing or a stipend for housing, and most REUs provide a stipend for food expenses.
Is REU stipend taxable?
If your stipend is education related, then you will need to determine if it’s taxable. These payments are taxable income to the student.
How do I choose an REU program?
REU & Internship Application Tips
- Read and follow the directions.
- Demonstrate specific knowledge and interest in the program to which you are applying.
- Carefully proofread your application.
- Choose good references.
- Say what makes you different from other applicants.
- Be genuine.
- Apply to multiple programs.