When are applications open?
Applications are called for twice each year and are open in April and September. Specific opening and closing dates are advised with the call for applications.
How does one apply for UROP?
The application is now an on-line procedure. This is the preferred means of application. The on-line form is accessible on this website only during the period when applications are open.
A letter expressing your interest in the scheme, a curriculum vitae including the contact details of one academic referee, and a copy of your academic results should be attached to the on-line application. Please ensure you read all application instructions before submitting your application.
Late applications will not be considered.
If I complete my degree mid-year or at the end of the academic year, can I apply for UROP over the summer?
Participants who complete their degrees at the end of the academic year are not eligible to apply for the December intake of that academic year. This is because UROP is not simply a summer vacation scheme. If you are interested in finding summer scholarships you should visit the relevant university, research institute or health foundation websites.
Likewise, if you complete your degree in the middle of the academic year, you will not be eligible to apply for the July intake of that year.
Should I mail my application, send it by e-mail or hand deliver it?
You should preferably use the on-line application procedure.
If you are unable to do this, applications can be accepted by e-mail as long as they conform with the application instructions.
If I submit my application on-line should I also send a hard copy as well?
No. You will not receive a message notification that your application has been sucessfully submitted but if there is a problem with your application submission you will receive any error message. Please then contact the Program Administrator by e-mail.
What time of day is the deadline for applications?
Close of business (5.00 pm) on the due date.
What should I include in my application letter?
Specific questions may need to be answered as part of your application letter (see the application instructions attached to the website). Otherwise, you need to indicate why you would like to join the UROP scheme, how it would benefit you and what you believe you have to offer a research group.
How long should my application be?
The letter of application should be no more than one A4 page long, typed in at least 11 point font. Pages exceeding this limit will be discarded. There is no fixed length for the curriculum vitae but it is preferable to be concise.
What is a curriculum vitae?
A curriculum vitae is a document which summarises your academic and employment history and gives your current address and contact details, including e-mail address. It should also contain the name and contact details of one academic referee whose permission you have obtained for that purpose. Interests and hobbies may also be listed.
Can I use a former high school teacher as a referee?
Yes, however high school contacts can recede quite quickly. It may be preferable to use a referee who has current knowledge of your academic performance and potential to pursue research. Your university teachers may also be familiar with the UROP scheme. If you do decide to use a high school referee, you must ensure that their contact details are current.
Should referees be university lecturers?
Not necessarily. If you have a lecturer whom you know, you may wish to ask them to be a referee. Alternatively, your tutors or demonstrators may know you better. If you have had some practical experience in a laboratory outside your coursework, you may wish to approach your supervisor from that experience.
Can I use referees from overseas?
Yes, as long as their contact details are up to date, preferably including an e-mail address.
How recent should referees be?
There is no prescription for this. However, as a guide, you should have had meaningful contact with your referee within the last two years.
Can references be sent in directly by e-mail by the referees?
Yes. However, referees will only be contacted once it has been decided who has passed the interview stage.
Is there a form for referees to use?
No. Referees will be contacted by telephone or asked for a reference in writing by the Program Manager or the prospective supervisor. The referee may include any information they believe is relevant.
Do I need to provide an official academic transcript of my results?
At the time of your initial application, it is sufficient to provide a copy of your results downloaded from the student information system. However, if you are selected for interview, you will be required to bring an official university academic transcript with you.
How do I get an academic transcript?
Official copies of your academic record are available from the university’s student administration
Should I submit my academic record for the full year or include the most up to date results?
The most up to date record of your results, for the full period of your undergraduate candidature to date, is required.
If submitting my application electronically is there a particular format?
Yes. The on-line form must be used. The on-line application function will be turned on only during the period of the call for applications.
How will I know my application has been received?
If you receive an error message, please notify the Program Manager by e-mail. You will not receive a separate confirmatory e-mail. Please check that you have submitted the 3 required documents as failure to do so is the main reason you would receive an error message.
E-mailed applications: Receipt of applications received by direct e-mail will be confirmed by e-mail within 5 working days.
Will I receive e-mail confirmation of my application?
If you submit your application by the on-line form (preferred method), you will not receive a separate e-mail confirmation. The confirmation is the immediate pop-up receipt notice seen when you hit the submit key.
If you submit your application by direct e-mail to the Program Manager or by hard copy, you will receive an e-mail confirmation within 5 working days.
Is Medicine considered a double degree and are medicine participants eligible?
MBBS/BMedSc is considered an undergraduate degree and is not considered a double degree. Medical participants are eligible to apply but like all UROP participants must be available 8 hours per week during the semester and for 2 weeks full time during the winter vacation period and 4 weeks during the summer vacation period. Medicine participants are not able to participate in UROP during their AMS year and they are able to suspend their UROP position at this time.
