We actively encourage applicants whose racial and ethnic backgrounds are underrepresented in higher education, who are first-generation college students, women, and who have demonstrated financial need.

Before you apply, make sure to have all of the below ready:

Submit an essay that answers the following questions (5,000 characters max):

Please describe your academic and career goals and how a research experience will help you achieve these goals.

Submit an essay that answers the following UNLV site specific question (5,000 characters max):

Why are you interested in the Smart Cities program and what makes you a strong candidate for participation? Reference specific faculty mentors and projects and how participation in this program will contribute to your post-baccalaureate career plan.

Upload your college transcript (may be unofficial).

Submit contact info for 2 recommendation letters.  Select recommenders that can speak directly to your ability to be successful at research.

Have a updated and current CV/resume highlighting your major accomplishments including work and research experience as well as relevant projects.

Undergraduate student participants must be U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or permanent residents of the United States. An undergraduate student is a student who is enrolled in a degree program (part-time or full-time) leading to a baccalaureate or associate degree. Students who are transferring from one college or university to another and are enrolled at neither institution during the intervening summer may participate. High school graduates who have been accepted at an undergraduate institution but who have not yet started their undergraduate study are also eligible to participate. Students who have received their bachelor’s degrees and are no longer enrolled as undergraduates are not eligible to participate.