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Research Experience
for Undergraduates (REU)

Reach for the Stars

Explore UCF’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates Sites.

What Are REUs?

The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs) are Summer research programs funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). Faculty members apply to the NSF for grants to onboard a cohort of around 10 undergraduates to conduct research in a variety of fields. Undergraduate students are able to attend programs across the country or internationally.

What Should I Expect?

REU Participants, as non-degree seeking students of UCF, will have access to many facilities on campus. The REU Programs usually provide the following:

  • Stipends for use for housing, travel, and meals

  • Participation for approximately 10 weeks

  • Mentoring from private investigators and faculty mentors

  • Explore educational and career pathways in STEM

  • Access to various UCF facilities, including the Recreation and Wellness Center, Student Health Services, and more

  • Participation in UCF’s Summer Research Poster Showcase and potential publications

  • Professional development workshops

  • And more!

Where Can I Learn More?


  • Applications are generally open from January to March but vary from program to program.

    If you are an undergraduate at UCF, REUs are typically reserved for students from other institutions, however, you may still be eligible for select REUs at this institution. If you are considering attending another institution to participate in an REU, use the NSF’s Directory of REU Sites to learn more.

    For additional undergraduate research opportunities available on campus, visit the Office of Undergraduate Research’s website for more information.

    Learn More About UCF's REU Sites


Why Should I Choose UCF?

Alongside our status as a “Research 1” University under the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, the University of Central Florida has proven to value undergraduate research in many ways. For statistics about the success of UCF’s REU programs, please scroll through below.

Home to the Nation’s Longest Running REU

Since 1987, the Computer Vision REU has been funded and helmed by Dr. Mubarak Shah. His participants have gone on to enter academia, attend prestigious graduate schools, and pioneered careers in industry.

Largest Number of REU Programs in Florida

With 7 sites offered within our institution, UCF has the highest number of programs in the state oUCF ensures that there are offerings for students from a range of different academic backgrounds all within the sunshine state.

72 Participants in the 2025 Cycle

REU programs at UCF have continued to grow every year. This year, with 7 programs total, we’ve reached the university’s highest participant number yet.

58 Participants from Visiting Universities

With various academic and personal backgrounds, the REU program at UCF promotes exchange between students, ensuring that participants hone professional and interpersonal skills.

49 Institutions Represented

With participants from across the nation, coming from as far as 2,800+ miles away, UCF has proven to provide students with a world class experience.

“One of my favorite things about this REU experience has been being able to learn from all kinds of different people, not just my own faculty mentor.”

Robin Marquez, 2022
Conservation, Restoration, and Communication REU student

Headshot of Robin Marquez.

Want To Attend UCF?

Undergraduate Admissions

UCF works towards providing students with opportunities every step of their academic career. Whether you’re interested in the arts, athletics, or academics, UCF has a place for you! If you are considering becoming a Knight, click the link below.

Click Here for More Undergraduate Admissions Information

UCF is the top choice amongst transfer students than all other universities according to the U.S. News & World Report. Whether you’re a DirectConnect student or coming from another University, UCF is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for all students. Click below for more information about transferring to UCF.

Click Here for More Transfer Information

Graduate Admissions

If you’re considering furthering your education, include UCF in your search! As an institution that values professional and personal career goals, UCF is prepared to show you all that it can offer. For information on campus tours, Grad Fairs, and information sessions, click below.

Please note that if you are a past REU participant, your graduate application fee to UCF will be waived. Email ucfreu@ucf.edu if you would like to accept this offer.

Click Here for More Graduate Admissions Information