Q: How do I apply?

A: Visit the SROP website and begin with STEP ONE of the online application process.

Q: When is the application deadline?

A: FEBRUARY 10 to complete online application.  (Transcripts must arrive at the SROP office and faculty recommendations must be entered online by MARCH 1)

Q: How many schools may I select?

A: All or as many as you prefer.  You can research the individual SROP campus programs by reviewing the Program Information Table.

Q: Can I send in an unofficial transcript?

A: Yes.

Q: Can I fax in a copy of my transcript?

A: Yes.  Fax to the CIC, Attention: SROP Program Coordinator (217-244-7127). Please include a phone number or email address where you can be reached if for some reason there are problems with receipt of the fax.

Q: I am a freshman, can I apply to the program?

A: Yes. The program is targeted at sophomores and juniors, but any undergraduate student can apply.  Your chances of being accepted are greater if you have had some coursework preparation in your proposed area of research.

Q: I am a senior, can I apply to the program?

A. It depends. If you are graduating before the summer, you are not eligible.

Q: Is my application complete? Did you receive my…transcript, recommendations, etc.?

A: To check your application status, login to the SROP on-line application using your email address and password to access your application and select Check Status.

Q: I’m having technical problems with my application, what do I do?

A: Please email the SROP coordinator at cicsropcoord@uiuc.edu. Include your name and a description of the problem.

Please note: The application works best when completed with Internet Explorer instead of Netscape.

Q: I am not a member of a minority group. May I still apply?

A: Yes. The program seeks to increase graduate school access for students from groups underrepresented in graduate education, including minority students, first-generation college students and students from low-income families, regardless of race or ethnicity.   African American, Latina/o, American Indian students are especially encouraged to apply.

Q: I have more than one area of interest, should I include them all?

A: Yes. Please provide as much information as you can to aid the institutions in the selection process. It is also best to be as specific as possible, in order to appropriately match you with a faculty mentor.

Q: When can I expect to hear from the institution(s)?

A: Offers will be made continuously throughout the process.

Note: Once all positions have been filled, the CIC will send a notice to students who did not receive an offer. Notices will be sent in early May

IMPORTANT: For specific details on offers and acceptances, please contact the institutions where you applied. The coordinators for summer research are listed on the CIC web site click here.

Q: How long do I have to accept an offer?

A: Students who receive an offer must adhere to the offer guidelines established by the institution making the offer.  Please pay close attention to the dates and details in your offer letter. The SROP institutions have a common March 15 deadline. You must decline or accept your offer by this date or the offering institution may rescind the offer.

Q: Once I accept an offer, can I change my mind and go to another institution?

A: If you are considering multiple campus programs, you may want to inform an institution that makes an early offer that you are awaiting an offer from other schools. If you receive a second offer, but are still waiting on a third, it is a good idea to decline the less attractive offer. For example, University A makes an offer to you, but you are waiting to hear from Universities B and C. WHen you receive an offer from University B, choose which of the two you prefer. If you still prefer A, then decline B while you wait to hear back from University C. Do not sit on multiple offers if you know which one you prefer. This will open up a space for another student to participate.

SROP works because many individuals agree to cooperate. You are an important partner in this cooperative program!

For more information, please contact Yolanda Zepeda at the CIC at (217) 244-5565 or zepeda@staff.cic.net.