Application Frequently Asked Questions
Note: Questions regarding the program (e.g., “Who will be my mentor?”) can be found on the program FAQ section.
How will I know when my application is complete?
- When all supporting materials have arrived, we will notify applicants that the application is complete. Applications will not be considered until all supporting documentation is received.
What should I address in my personal statement?
- Discuss you research interests.
- Describe your plans for earning an advanced degree
- Explain how this research opportunity relates to your career goals and plans.
Who should write a recommendation for me? What should it include?
- At least one recommendation letter should be from a faculty member who can evaluate the applicant’s academic potential. If an applicant has previously been involved in research, we suggest soliciting a recommendation from the professor who supervised that research.
- The other recommendation letter may be provided by a work reference or university administrator who knows the applicant’s academic, work ethic and experience, or character qualifications.
- Both letters may be written by faculty members.
- We recommend contacting professors well in advance of the deadline and asking if they feel able to provide a strong recommendation.
- A well-prepared recommendation should evaluate the applicant’s strengths and weaknesses as well as potential as a researcher, communicate information about any relevant laboratory or research skills, and address general character.
- Recommendations are weighted heavily in the selection process. Thus, it is important to make sure they are submitted on time.
- It is the applicant’s responsibility to make sure both recommendations are submitted by the deadline.
Are there specific research projects or faculty for the LSAMP REU?
- No, we invite applications from eligible students in a variety of STEM majors and research interests.
- Applicants should review faculty research information in their areas of interest by visiting department sites.
Are students required to reach out to faculty prior to applying?
- No, students do not need to reach out to faculty of interest.
When will decisions be available?
- Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status by mid-April.
What is the program acceptance rate?
- We expect to admit 4-8 participants for the Summer CU LSAMP REU. Total participants depends on final funding availability.
Are international students eligible to apply for CU LSAMP REU?
- Unfortunately, our funding sources allow us to offer participation only to US Citizens and Permanent Residents. However, we recommend visiting the following sites to learn more about other summer research opportunities which may not have this funding restriction:
- Pathways to Science – National Opportunities for Research, Scholarships & Fellowships
- Summer Research and Professional Development Programs for Undocumented College Students in STEM Fields – includes programs for DACA status students
- Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internships (SULI)
- Cornell University Summer REUs
- Institute of International Education
- REU Finder