Join us for a summer of research, innovation, and discovery!

What is the CMU-Robotics Institute Summer Scholar Program?

Carnegie Mellon’s Robotics Institute Summer Scholars (RISS) program offers an unparalleled learning environment to explore robotics and artificial intelligence. This collaborative learning experience is designed to help undergraduate students from the United States and abroad experience research and prepare for graduate school. Participants explore research and applications in robotics and AI, work alongside top faculty and graduate students, collaborate with diverse teams, and present and publish their research findings. We welcome applications from students enthusiastic about contributing to research, participating in outreach efforts, and fostering connections within the community to promote mutual growth and development.

Eligibility

– The RISS program is exclusively designed for current undergraduate students, who must have at least one full semester of undergraduate coursework remaining following the summer program. Please see below for additional eligibility requirements.

Eligibility Includes:

  • U.S. citizens, US Permanent Residents (also known as “green card” holders), US Nationals, or US Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders
  • International scholars who are full-time, undergraduate degree-seeking students attending a U.S. college, U.S. university, or U.S. institution, AND you are eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) AND legally able to receive financial support/scholarships.
  • RISS Partners (university, government, and institutional partners) are eligible to apply. Please check the list provided below.

Eligible RISS Partners

  • CMU Students attending CMU Africa or CMU Qatar Campuses as full-time enrolled undergraduate students
  • KAUST KGSP Students
  • The RISS-Poland Partnership Project Applicants
  • RISS-Mexico Partnership Project Applicants
  • German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) RISE Applicants (Please apply through the DAAD RISE Portal & RISS portals.)

Ineligibility Includes:

  • Non-U.S. students who do not meet the requirements listed in the eligibility
  • International students who are not full-time undergraduate degree-seeking students at a U.S. college, U.S. university, or U.S. institution are ineligible
  • Graduate students
  • Dual bachelor master’s students currently in or entering the master’s phase of the program
  • Individuals who do not have one entire semester of undergraduate studies remaining after the RISS program
  • Individuals who will not have completed at least two full-time semesters of undergraduate studies before the beginning of the RISS cohort
  • Individuals under the age of 18 who have not completed at least two full-time semesters of undergraduate studies before the beginning of the RISS cohort
  • High school students and dual enrollment high school students

How many students participate in the program every year?

RISS hosts 40 – 50 participants annually.

How do I develop a successful application?

  • Step one: read the FAQs and program materials
  • Step two: attend an information session
  • Step three: review several years of RISS research posters and papers
  • Step four: explore the work of participating mentors

What are the qualities of a strong application?

  • Reference to prior RI Summer Scholar posters and papers (visit the Research Showcase)
  • A clear commitment to working in teams
  • Prior outreach or community engagement is preferred
  • A strong academic record (for example a 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 GPA scale)
  • One or more research or extended course project experiences at their home institution
  • A clear connection between skills and possible projects/labs
  • Relevant programming (e.g. C; C++) or other experience
  • Strong letter of recommendation from an academic advisor or faculty member

What is the RISS application timeline?

Applications accepted from November 1, 2024 to January 17, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST

What are the attendance requirements?

Participants must be present for the entirety of the program.

Is the program in-person or virtual?

RISS is an in-person program held on Carnegie Mellon’s Pittsburgh campus.

What are the RISS program dates?

The RISS 2025 dates are June 2 – August 8.

Do Summer Scholars receive financial support?

All participants in the program will receive financial support. The scholarship information is detailed in the CMU offer letter.

Is health insurance provided?

Health insurance is not provided to participants.

Which labs participate in the program?

Please see the previous year’s Summer Scholars posters to see which labs have recently participated. You can view previous research project videos here. Most mentors who may be participating in the upcoming summer are listed on the RISS Mentors Page.

Can I get course credit for the internship?

Please check with your home university to discuss this.

May I register for classes at Carnegie Mellon University or work part-time during the program while I am an RI Summer Scholar?

Participants in the RI Summer Scholars program are not allowed to enroll in CMU courses or take on part-time employment during the program. The program offers a full-time, immersive research experience. Numerous complimentary workshops and seminars will be available on campus to enrich your research journey.

How can attending RISS help me to prepare for graduate school?

  • RISS will provide tools to help you explore graduate school options available at CMU and other universities. Support continues after RISS including:
  • Graduate school application and fellowship workshops
  • Resume, Statement of Purpose, & more
  • Peer reviews
  • Graduate program discussions with universities, alumni, & more

What options are available for housing?

Summer Scholars are responsible for finding housing but will receive information and guides to support them. CMU campus housing is not available.

What documents are required to apply?

  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Statement of Purpose
  • One letter of recommendation (from a faculty advisor or instructor)
    • Note: You may include up to three letters of recommendation.
  • Unofficial undergraduate transcript (with overall GPA and major GPA)
  • Note: All documents MUST be saved as a PDF to be uploaded to the application website

What should I do if my school, college, or university is not listed in the drop-down menu?

If your institution is located within the United States and does not appear on the list and you are eligible to apply, please reach out to riss-info@andrew.cmu.edu for assistance.

How should I choose a recommender?

Your recommender should be able to speak about your research potential and ability. A faculty member from your college or university with whom you have done research, or an extended project would be an excellent choice. The strongest recommendations often come from individuals who have known you for an extended period of time and had the opportunity to work with you in research and academic project settings.

May I get a recommendation from outside of academia?

Yes, but ensure that you have at least one recommender who can discuss your research experience and potential. This should ideally be a faculty member with whom you have conducted research or participated in an extensive project.

Can I submit other additional materials to strengthen my application?

Yes, links and publications are encouraged in your resume. Additional materials can be added as supplemental pages to your CV/resume and submitted with your CV/resume. No CDs or physical mail will be considered.

How and when will applicants be notified of admissions decisions?

Most offers of admission are extended by April 1 via email.