National Merit Summer Research Stipend Guidelines

National Merit Scholars who are part of the Fall 2024 cohort or later and are in good academic standing are eligible for a one-time award of up to $4,500 to support a summer research experience. Summer research usage form must be submitted by May 1 of the year in which the research will take place.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a National Merit Scholar from the fall 2024 cohort or later.
• Must be in good academic standing.
• Must complete at least 300 hours of research during the summer.
• The research position must be unpaid.
• Students cannot receive both the National Merit research stipend and URAP stipends for the same summer. However, students may participate in URAP during a different summer.
• If the research to be conducted is international, students may use part of their NM Study Abroad stipend to cover international travel and insurance.

Application Process

• Submit the name and email address of your research advisor when completing the Summer Research Stipend Usage form.
• The advisor will receive a form to complete as part of the approval process.
• Once approved, the stipend is typically disbursed by early June of the summer term.