Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility and Research
Am I eligible if I am NOT a U.S citizen or U.S Permanent Resident?
NSF REU participants must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident. BU-funded REU opportunities (Materials Science and Photonics “PURSuE”) are open to all students at US colleges, including non-citizens and international students. International students must be attending a U.S university on a F-1 Visa.
Are BU students eligible?
No, only non-Boston University students are eligible.
Can current seniors in college apply?
Unfortunately, this program is only open to current college freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and community college students who are 18 years old and older and are currently enrolled as full-time college students. Those college students graduating this coming Spring or Summer are not eligible.
What research projects are available this year?
Projects will usually get uploaded by late spring. It may be useful to refer to our Past Summer Projects and Past Participants pages to understand the types of projects offered.
Application Process
When is the application deadline?
Applications are due March 15, 2023.
Do we need to send an official transcript or unofficial transcript?
Unofficial transcript is OK.
Is there an application fee?
No, there is no fee to apply for the REU program.
When do students find out if they’ve been accepted into the REU program?
We work on a rolling admissions basis. We would appreciate you letting us know if you have accepted another offer for summer research as soon as you can.
What are the selection criteria? What is the selection process?
Applications are reviewed based on research goals and interests, as well as what a student will bring to the project. Candidates are notified as soon as possible after selection.
Program Details and Expectations
Is housing provided?
Free on-campus housing is included for the ten weeks of the program. Typically, Boston University houses REU students in apartment-style residences that are conveniently located within walking distance to the Photonics Center and buildings and labs. Apartments vary in size, are furnished, and include kitchens. Students also have the option to independently purchase a dining plan and eat in the dining facilities available on campus. Special needs can be accommodated upon notification as well.
Will I have a roommate?
Yes. All apartments are multiple-occupancy. Therefore, you will have at least one roommate.
Should I bring a car to campus?
We strongly recommend against having a car in Boston for the summer. The public transportation system (MBTA) is excellent, parking permits are expensive, and do not guarantee you a spot. The given travel subsidy may not cover all of your driving expenses.
Can I take a summer course while in the REU program?
No. The REU program requires a full-time commitment that does not allow time for additional summer course work.
How is a research group match decided?
Pairing of an REU student with a research group is based on the student’s personal statement. Communication with the student prior to arrival once a match is found allows the REU participant and the faculty/graduate student mentor an opportunity to start discussing the project before the summer begins.