Summer Programs
The VSSA application will open on November 1st and most will close on February 1st, 2026.
Programs you can apply for through the VSSA application:
- AHA SURE: American Heart Association Supporting Undergraduate Research Experiences
- The Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) – Summer Research Program
- Vanderbilt Undergraduate Clinical Research Internship Program (UCRIP)
- Vanderbilt Center for Antibody Therapeutics
- V-SURE: Vanderbilt-Sewanee Undergraduate Research Experience (for Sewanee undergraduates only)
Programs you can apply for through the Summer Program application:
Programs with their own application (and links to application pages):
- Aspirnaut™ Undergraduate Discovery Science Experience in Renal Biology and Disease Deadline January 19, 2026
- BP-ENDURE
- Leadership Alliance Opens November 1. Deadline February 1.
- VBISP: Vanderbilt Biomedical Informatics Summer Program Deadline February 15, rolling application.
How to Apply to a VSSA Program
To initiate your VSSA application, please click on the application button above.
1. Create your account. Use the online application to set up a username and password so you can save progress and return anytime.
2. Select program.
For a VSSA Program, select "VSSA - Vanderbilt Summer Science Academy", then the specific program to which you are applying.
For the Chemical Biology REU program, choose "Chemical-Biology REU
3. Add two recommenders. Enter names and emails; our system sends each recommender a secure link to upload a letter. VSSA accepts online submissions only. Letters are due by February 1.
4. Upload your transcript and enter the contact information for your recommenders.
5. Write your statement of purpose. Briefly describe your research interests and why you want to participate in your chosen VSSA program.
6. Review and submit. You may edit your application until you submit. After submission, the form is locked, but you can still upload supplemental documents.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to confirm both recommendation letters are received by the deadline so your application is complete.
Who to Contact with Questions
For questions regarding the application process, contact us via E-mail: