The International Student Research Internship Program 2026 at Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) is now open for applications. This fully funded summer internship is for international students who want to join engineering research in the United States. The program will run from May to August 2026. It offers a $3000 stipend free housing and travel help. Students will work in the McKelvey School of Engineering, learn from top teachers and experience U.S. school and research life.
WashU International Student Internship Summary
| Host Country | United States |
| University | Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) |
| School | McKelvey School of Engineering |
| Program Duration | May – August 2026 |
| Stipend | $3,000 USD |
| Housing | Free on-campus or provided off-campus |
| Application Deadline | 13 November 2026 |
| Eligibility | Non-U.S. citizen undergraduate students |
About the WashU International Internship Program
The WashU International Student Research Internship gives students from around the world a chance to join real engineering research projects. Interns will work under expert teachers postdocs and graduate students at the McKelvey School of Engineering.
The goal of this program is to let students experience how research is done in the U.S. while building their skills for graduate studies and future research careers.
See Also: IMF Fund Internship 2026 in USA (Paid Internship)
What You’ll Do
During the internship, students will:
- Conduct independent research on real projects.
- Work directly with faculty and research teams.
- Attend weekly lectures and “learning lunches.”
- Take part in graduate school preparation workshops.
- Join social events and field trips around St. Louis.
- Experience U.S. culture in both academic and social settings.
Financial Support
The program is paid by the McKelvey School of Engineering covering:
- $3000 stipend for 10 weeks.
- Free housing on campus or off campus based on schedule.
- Public transportation pass for St Louis travel.
Not covered:
- Health insurance (mandatory).
- Visa fees.
- International round-trip airfare.
- Food and personal expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
You can apply if you meet these conditions:
- You are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- You are now enrolled full time in a bachelor degree at an international university.
- You are in your second last year of study.
- You have a strong background and motivation in your subject area.
- You can show English communication skills (interview may be online).
Also See: FAO Internship 2026 in Italy (IELTS not required)
Required Documents
To apply, prepare the following materials:
- Resume (2 pages max)
- Unofficial Transcript
- One or Two Letters of Reference
- At least one letter must be from a professor at your current university.
- Personal Statement (1 page) – Describe your goals, interests, and background.
- English Proficiency Test Score (TOEFL, IELTS, or other accepted tests)
- Check requirements for J-1 visitors: English Proficiency Guidelines
Application Timeline
- Deadline: 13 November 2026
- Virtual Interviews: Conducted for shortlisted candidates
- Program Dates: May – August 2026
Visa Assistance
Once accepted, WashU’s Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) will help students apply for:
- DS-2019 form
- J-1 Intern Visa
Students will be responsible for visa fees and required documentation.
You can read more on the OISS J-1 Visa Information page.
How to Apply For The WashU International Student Internship
You can apply online through the official WashU portal. Make sure all required documents are submitted before the deadline.
