NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)

The U.S. National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (NSF REU) program supports intensive research by undergraduate students in any area of research funded by NSF. Faculty can apply for funding to support a cohort of undergraduate students in research projects designed specifically for the NSF REU program (an REU Site) or can apply for additional funding to involve undergraduate students in a new or ongoing NSF-funded research project (an REU Supplement). Undergraduate students (college and university students) can apply directly to REU Sites to participate in research projects across the United States and the world. REU-supported students receive stipends and in many cases assistance with housing, meals and travel. The program provides hands-on research experience to undergraduates, helping to prepare the next generation of STEM researchers and professionals. The program operates through two mechanisms: REU Sites, which are institutional awards supporting cohorts of students engaged in focused research areas, and REU Supplements, which provide additional funding to existing NSF awards to support undergraduate research participation.