• Students in their 3rd year of university studies - Outstanding 2nd year students will also be considered
• One semester of prior research experience is preferred but not required
• Equivalent cumulative GPA of at least 3.25 on a 4.0 scale
• Enrolled full-time in a Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (STEM) program – typical projects include majors in chemistry, physics, biology, computer science/mathematics, as well as mechanical, civil, electrical, and biomedical engineering
• Reasonable ability to communicate in English orally and in writing (at least intermediate level)

As the program utilizes a J-1 intern visa , you must be currently enrolled full-time as an undergraduate in a STEM program such as chemistry, physics, biology, computer science/mathematics or an engineering sub-discipline. Please check the Projects page for specifics.

Please gather the following prior to beginning your online application:

• A pdf copy of your curriculum vitae
• A personal statement describing prior research experience if any (where, when, for how long, with whom and on what topic); your motivation to participate in the program; and expected impact of the program on future academic and career plans.
• A pdf copy of your unofficial transcript (official transcripts to be sent via mail)
• A pdf copy of your health & accident insurance coverage valid for the program dates (front & back)
• International students only: A pdf copy of your passport personal information page and J-1 Internship documents
  

The SURME manager will assist you in completing the J-1 Visa process upon your acceptance into the program.

No. The SURME program works with UTEP Residence Life to provide secure and convenient on-campus housing. A deposit is required in order to secure your dormitory/apartment. Full payment will be required one-month prior to arrival.

You should immediately contact SURME’s coordinator during normal business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time. For life-threatening emergencies, call ‘9-1-1’ immediately. As your J-1 Visa sponsor, SURME acts as your advisor and liaison. Please contact us with any concerns or problems you feel you may have. You are required to notify us immediately if you encounter any potentially significant problems during your program. Informing us right away dramatically increases our ability to help resolve successfully any of your problems and concerns.

Absolutely! The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) is a doctoral, minority-serving (~80% Hispanic – reflecting the local population), research-intensive university located on the U.S. border with Mexico. Currently, we serve more than 23,000 students, and our mission is to provide both access and excellence, supporting the education and development of our community. In fact, UTEP’s goal is to become the first national research university with a 21st century student demographic. El Paso is home to approximately 800,000 residents; combined with our sister city of Ciudad Juárez in Mexico (pop. ~1.2 million), we are the largest bi-national metroplex in the world. For more info about El Paso please visit: visitelpaso.com .

Research efforts at UTEP focus on border relevant issues, in line with our commitment to improving the health and well-being of people in this region. UTEP is home to the Sun Bowl and the UTEP Miners, led by our mascot, Paydirt Pete. Come visit us - we’d love to show you around! You can also visit our website: www.utep.edu .