Q: How do I apply?
A: For all programs except Mathematics, fill out the online application. Secure two faculty recommenders, submit your personal statement and resume, and email your transcript to . For Mathematics, follow the Mathematics REU instructions.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: The priority deadline is February 15. We encourage you to apply early. The final deadline is Monday, March 1 for all materials.
Q: Can I send an unofficial transcript?
A: Yes, as long as it's a digital copy that you send to as an email attachment. Official copies may be required from students selected into the program.
Q: Can I fax in a copy of my transcript?
A: No. You must send a digital (PDF, JPEG, or GIF) copy of your transcript to as an email attachment.
Q: I am a freshman or senior — can I apply to the program?
A: Yes. The program is targeted at sophomores and juniors, but any undergraduate student can apply as long as you are an undergraduate student for the duration of the Summer Research Program. Priority is given to students with advanced course work and one year remaining of undergraduate study.
Q: Has my application been received?
A: You will receive email notification of the receipt of your application.
Q: Is my application complete? Did you receive my transcript, recommendations, etc.?
A: To check your application status, enter your SRP Application ID number on our How to Apply page or email .
Q: I'm having technical problems with my application, what do I do?
A: Please email . Include your name and a description of the problem.
Q: I am not a member of a minority group. May I still apply?
A: Yes. The program targets all undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing a graduate degree in these featured programs. Members of groups underrepresented in graduate education are especially encouraged to apply.
Q: I have more than one area of interest, should I include them all?
A: Yes. You may rank as many research groups as you like. You will only be considered for groups you have ranked.
Q: Are my program rankings important?
A: Yes. Your program ranking determines who can evaluate your application and in what order. Your second choice program may not review your application unless your first choice program does not select you.
Q: Are my mentor rankings important?
A: Possibly. Your mentor rankings give faculty an idea of what your interests are, but you may also select "any mentor, no preference".
Q: If I plan to go to medical school, will I still be considered?
A: Possibly. Each individual research group makes admission decisions, and some are not open to taking pre-med students. This program is designed to give you hands-on experience with graduate school life and research, which is not the same as professional school, such as medical, dental, PT, or optometry.
Q: Can I take classes while at UNL this summer?
A: Possibly. The Summer Research Program is intended to be a full-time educational experience. Students interested in enrolling in additional coursework should discuss this with their research mentor as soon as possible to insure that the course does not conflict with lab activities. To register for courses, students will need to obtain admission as a visiting student. We can assist you with that process. Please note that students who enroll in courses at UNL will be responsible for all related tuition and fees.
Q: Can I receive credit for my research experience at my home institution?
A: Possibly. We will work with students to obtain the necessary documentation to receive academic credit at their home institution. Students interested in this option should contact us as soon as possible in addition to discussing these arrangements with their academic advisor at their home institution.
Q: When can I expect to hear about the status of my application?
A: Offers will be made by March 15.
Q: How long do I have to accept an offer?
A: Your offer letter will specify a deadline by which you must accept your offer to participate in the program. Typically this is two weeks or March 31.
Q: Do I need to maintain health insurance?
A: Yes. We recommend that all students continue with their usual health insurance arrangements for the duration of this program. All participants will have access to the University Health Center.
Q: What services does the University Health Center provide?
A: The University Health Center is a comprehensive health facility providing a primary care clinic, laboratory, physical therapy, pharmacy, radiology, counseling and dental services. The Summer Research Program pays the Health Center fee for all program participants so that you may access these services. There is no charge for a primary care provider visit for illness and injuries, chronic conditions, physical exams, pap smears, and referral to specialty clinics when needed. Other services are provided at a reduced rate.
