iScholar Summer Research Program 2026 – Fully Funded Chemistry Research at University of Rochester (USA)

The iScholar International Student Summer Research Program at the University of Rochester is a highly competitive, fully funded summer research opportunity for outstanding undergraduate and master’s students in chemistry from around the world.

Participants conduct first‑class research under faculty supervision, receive a weekly stipend, on‑campus accommodation, health insurance, and up to $1,250 toward travel costs. The program runs from June 1 to July 31, 2026.

The application deadline for 2026 has already passed (January 23, 2026), but interested students should prepare for the next cycle. If you are looking for similar opportunities, explore fully funded scholarships in USA for international students.

Program Overview

• Program Name: iScholar International Student Summer Research Program

• Host Institution: University of Rochester, Department of Chemistry (USA)

• Duration: June 1 – July 31, 2026 (8 weeks)

• Eligibility: Undergraduate and master’s students in chemistry or related fields (physics, biology, engineering, computer science) from outside the US

• Funding: Fully funded (stipend, accommodation, health insurance, travel allowance)

• Application Deadline (2026): January 23, 2026 (closed – prepare for next year)

For students seeking other funded programs in North America, check latest scholarships in Canada for all nationalities.

Program Benefits (Fully Funded)

Selected iScholar participants receive:

• Weekly stipend to cover living expenses during the 8‑week program

• On‑campus accommodation (housing provided)

• Health insurance coverage

• Travel allowance up to $1,250 toward travel costs (round‑trip airfare)

• Student registration and tuition fees associated with the program are covered

• Visa assistance – the University’s International Services Office and Center for Education Abroad help secure a US visa (participant covers visa application and SEVIS fees)

What to Expect

• Full‑time research under the supervision of a chemistry faculty member. Your specific project depends on the research group you are assigned to.

• Seminar series and a poster event designed for summer research students.

• Networking opportunities throughout the summer.

• No courses associated with this program – pure research experience.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the iScholar program, you must meet all of the following requirements:

• Be currently studying outside the United States

• Have not pursued and are not currently in a PhD program

• Be in an undergraduate or master’s program with a focus on chemistry or a related field (e.g., physics, biology, engineering, computer science)

• Plan to pursue a PhD in chemistry in the United States

• Preference is given to students planning to start a PhD in chemistry in calendar year 2027 (likely fall enrollment in August 2027)

How to Apply (for Future Cycles)

Step 1: Visit the University of Rochester Chemistry Department’s iScholar program webpage.

Step 2: Prepare required materials:

• Unofficial transcripts (with English translation)

• CV in PDF format

• Contact information of two professors familiar with your work to serve as references

Step 3: Complete the online application. Note that a copy of your application and instructions for references will be sent automatically from summer@chem.rochester.edu to your references. Follow up to ensure they received the email (check spam folders).

Step 4: Submit your application before the deadline (typically in January).

Step 5: Decisions and offers are made in the last week of March.

For additional financial aid options across North America, explore financial aids for students in North America.

Why Choose the iScholar Program?

• Fully funded research experience at a top US university.

• Pathway to US chemistry PhD programs – ideal preparation for graduate school applications.

• Work with world‑class faculty in a collaborative research environment.

• Cultural and professional networking with peers from around the world.

• Visa assistance – the university helps with the US visa process.

Final Thoughts

The iScholar Summer Research Program is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for international chemistry students who plan to pursue a PhD in the United States. Although the 2026 application deadline (January 23) has passed, mark your calendar for next year. If you are a current undergraduate or master’s student in chemistry or a related field with ambitions of studying in the US, this program is an excellent stepping stone.

For a complete list of open scholarships and research programs in North America, visit list of all open scholarships in North America.

Apply Now for iScholar Summer Research Program (Next Cycle)