The International Student Summer Research Program, known as the iScholar Program, is a competitive research opportunity hosted by the University of Rochester for high-achieving international students in chemistry and related fields. Designed for undergraduate and master’s students studying outside the United States, the program helps bridge the gap between international education and a future PhD in chemistry in the US.
Participants spend their summer conducting full-time research under faculty supervision while gaining early exposure to the academic culture of a leading US research university. For students aiming to apply to US PhD programs, this scholarship offers both practical experience and academic visibility.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: USA
- Host University: University of Rochester
- Scholarship Type: Undergraduate Scholarships/MSC Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Scholarship Benefits: Full tuition fee, Monthly stipend, etc.
Scholarship Benefits
The iScholar Program is fully funded and structured to reduce financial barriers for international participants. Selected students receive:
- Weekly stipend to cover living expenses
- On-campus accommodation for the full program duration
- Health insurance during the research period
- Travel support of up to $1,250
- Full coverage of student registration and tuition fees
The university also provides guidance through its International Services Office to help students secure the appropriate US visa, although visa and SEVIS-related fees remain the participant’s responsibility.
See Also:
- Fully Funded M.S. Graduate Assistantship in Stonefly Systematics and Conservation at Western Kentucky University (USA)
- University of Rochester iScholar 2026: International Summer Research Scholarship (Fully Funded) in USA
- Fully Funded MS Scholarship in Groundwater Hydrology at Kansas State University USA (2026 Intake)
Eligibility Requirements for University of Rochester iScholar Scholarship 2026
Applicants must meet the following conditions to be considered:
- Currently studying at a non-US institution
- Enrolled in an undergraduate or master’s program
- Academic focus in chemistry or a related field such as physics, biology, engineering, or computer science
- Not currently enrolled in, and have not completed, a PhD program
- Planning to pursue a PhD in chemistry in the United States
Due to the program’s competitiveness, preference is given to students intending to begin a US chemistry PhD in 2027.
Documents Required
Applicants are required to prepare and submit the following materials:
- Unofficial academic transcripts with English translation
- Curriculum Vitae in PDF format
- Contact details of two academic referees familiar with the applicant’s work
Once the application is submitted, referees will receive instructions for submitting recommendation letters directly.
Scholarship Deadline
Application Deadline: January 23, 2026
Final admission decisions are expected to be released during the last week of March 2026.
Steps on How to Apply for University of Rochester iScholar Scholarship 2026
To apply for the iScholar Program, applicants should follow these steps:
- Complete the online application form accurately
- Upload academic transcripts and CV in the required format
- Provide contact information for referees
- Submit the application before the deadline
- Follow up with referees to ensure recommendation letters are submitted
Applicants will receive email confirmation once their application and reference letters are received.
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