EIU Pine Honors College

Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)

As described on the National Science Foundation's (NSF) website, the REU program supports active research participation by undergraduate students in a variety of research areas. REUs meaningfully involve students in both ongoing research programs and in research projects specifically designed for the REU program.

You do not need to be an Honors Student to participate in an REU.

Students who have been accepted to be part of an REU have often used it as their Honors Experience for the Presidential Scholars Program. Several students have participated in multiple REUs at different sites before graduating.

REU opportunities can take one of two forms: REU Sites, and REU Supplements.

REU Sites

REU Sites are based on independent proposals to initiate and conduct projects that engage a number of students in research. While some REU Sites are based in a single discipline or academic department, others are interdisciplinary/multi-departmental research opportunities with a coherent intellectual theme.

Proposals with an international dimension are welcome. Additionally, a partnership with the Department of Defense supports REU Sites in relevant research areas.

REU Supplements

REU Supplements may be requested for ongoing NSF-funded research projects or may be included as a component of proposals for new or renewed NSF grants, as well as cooperative agreements.

To Apply

Students cannot apply to REU opportunities through the NSF. Instead, students apply directly to REU Sites and should consult the directory of active REU Sites here.

Note: Undergraduate students who wish to participate in REU Sites/Supplements must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States or its possessions.