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Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)

Funding
$5,000 – $500,000
Status
Open
Deadline
August 18, 2027
Agency
Scope
Nationwide
Source
Grants.gov
$5K – $500K
August 18, 2027
Nationwide

Description

The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program supports active research participation by undergraduate students in any of the areas of research funded by the National Science Foundation. REU projects involve students in meaningful ways in ongoing research programs or in research projects specifically designed for the REU program. This solicitation features two mechanisms for supporting student research: REU Sites are based on independent proposals to initiate and conduct projects that engage a number of students in research. REU Sites may be based in a single discipline or academic department or may offer interdisciplinary or multi-department research opportunities with a coherent intellectual theme. REU Supplements may be included as a component of proposals for new or renewal NSF grants or cooperative agreements or may be requested for ongoing NSF-funded research projects. REU projects with an international dimension are welcome. Undergraduate student participants in either REU Sites or REU Supplements must be U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals,or U.S. permanent residents. Students do not apply to NSF to participate in REU activities, and NSF does not select students for the opportunities. Investigators who receive REU awards establish their own process for receiving and reviewing applications and selecting students, and students follow the instructions provided by each REU Site or REU Supplement to apply. (In some cases, investigators pre-select students for REU Supplements.) To identify appropriate REU Sites, students should consult the directory of active REU Sites on the Web at https://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/reu_search.cfm .

Eligibility

See official grant page for eligibility requirements

Industry Tags

Research

About This Grant

The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program supports active research participation by undergraduate students in any of the areas of research funded by the National Science Foundation. REU projects involve students in meaningful ways in ongoing research programs or in research projects specifically designed for the REU program. This solicitation features two mechanisms for supporting student research: REU Sites are based on independent proposals to initiate and conduct projects that engage a number of students in research. REU Sites may be based in a single discipline or academic department or may offer interdisciplinary or multi-department research opportunities with a coherent intellectual theme. REU Supplements may be included as a component of proposals for new or renewal NSF grants or cooperative agreements or may be requested for ongoing NSF-funded research projects. REU projects with an international dimension are welcome. Undergraduate student participants in either REU Sites or REU Supplements must be U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals,or U.S. permanent residents. Students do not apply to NSF to participate in REU activities, and NSF does not select students for the opportunities. Investigators who receive REU awards establish their own process for receiving and reviewing applications and selecting students, and students follow the instructions provided by each REU Site or REU Supplement to apply. (In some cases, investigators pre-select students for REU Supplements.) To identify appropriate REU Sites, students should consult the directory of active REU Sites on the Web at https://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/reu_search.cfm .

Funding Information

Award Ceiling
$500,000
Award Floor
$5,000
Estimated Total Program Funding
$84,800,000
Expected Number of Awards
1,350

Eligibility Overview

This opportunity from U.S. National Science Foundation is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Research are especially encouraged to review the requirements.

Federal grant opportunities like this one are typically open to a range of applicant types. Common eligible organizations include:

  • Nonprofits and 501(c)(3) organizations
  • Small businesses and startups (especially for SBIR/STTR programs)
  • State, local, and tribal governments
  • Colleges, universities, and research institutions
  • Individuals (for select programs in education, arts, and research)

Eligibility requirements vary by opportunity. Always review the official listing before investing time in an application.

How to Apply

  1. 1

    Review the full opportunity

    Read the complete Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for this U.S. National Science Foundation program on its official page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/348985).

  2. 2

    Confirm eligibility

    Check that your organization meets every requirement set by U.S. National Science Foundation — applicant type, location, registration status, and any prior-award restrictions.

  3. 3

    Prepare required documents

    Gather your budget narrative, needs statement, organizational details, SAM.gov registration, and any required certifications.

  4. 4

    Submit before the deadline

    This opportunity closes on August 18, 2027. Submit at least 48 hours early — portal systems are often slow near closing time.

Grant Writing Tips

Proposals for research programs such as those from U.S. National Science Foundation are competitive — these tips can strengthen your application:

  • Start your application at least 4 weeks before the deadline — rushed proposals score lower.
  • Tailor your needs statement to match the funder's stated priorities, using their exact language where possible.
  • Have a colleague outside your team review your budget narrative before submitting — fresh eyes catch errors reviewers penalize.

More Grants from U.S. National Science Foundation

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)?

This opportunity from U.S. National Science Foundation is open to eligible applicants nationwide. Organizations working in Research are especially encouraged to review the requirements. Always confirm the full eligibility criteria on the official listing before applying.

How much funding does Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) provide?

Award amounts for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) range from $5,000 to $500,000.

When is the deadline for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)?

The application deadline for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) is August 18, 2027. Submit at least 48 hours early to avoid last-minute portal issues.

How do I apply for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)?

Apply for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) through the official grant page (https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/348985). Confirm your eligibility and prepare your application materials before the deadline.

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