Students registering for a research course during the summer do not have to pay tuition. Each division offers the opportunity for qualified students early in their careers to engage in research under the supervision of a faculty member. Most options offer undergraduate research courses in order to encourage participation, and students should consult listings and descriptions of opportunities. Students are encouraged to undertake research of such scope and caliber as to merit the preparation of a senior thesis.
Students write research proposals in collaboration with their mentors.
Proposals and recommendations are reviewed and awards granted by the members of the SURF administrative committee. The work is carried out during a 10-week period in the summer. Students may attend weekly seminars presented by members of the Caltech faculty and JPL technical staff and may participate in luncheon roundtable discussions with leaders in business, government, or academia. Students may also take part in communications workshops on technical writing, presenting an oral report, and preparing visual aids. At the conclusion of the summer, SURFers submit a written report describing the project, methods, and results of their work.