Funding and Awards Overview
The Center for Undergraduate Research and Scholarship offers funding to faculty and undergraduate students in the form of grants (materials and travel), fellowships, the Summer Scholars Program, and other awards.
CURS Grants
Grants are offered twice per year (fall and spring) in support of faculty-led undergraduate research, scholarship, and creative activity. Faculty and students in all academic disciplines are encouraged to submit proposals.
Grants proposals are accepted August 1- 31 and January 1- 31 each year.
Summer Scholars Program
The Summer Scholars Program (SSP) is a research intensive experience for faculty and students over the summer term. Faculty mentors guide undergraduate students in research participation during either a five or nine week summer session. Students engage in experiential learning of disciplinary scholarship, culminating in a symposium presentation of their accomplishments over the summer. SSP scholars are employed by the university for 20 hours per week, may receive funding towards materials/supplies, and the cost of a research poster. Please note that housing is not provided.
Summer Scholars faculty applications are accepted November 1 - January 5 each year.
Summer Scholars student applications are accepted February 1- 15 each year.
Distinctions in Research
Student researchers are eligible to apply for the following designations to be awarded at graduation. The Distinction in Research and Distinction of Excellence in Research are awarded by the Center for Undergraduate Research and Scholarship to recognize student’s active engagement in the process of discovery, investigation, and innovation above and beyond the baccalaureate degree. These designations will be listed on the eligible students' academic transcripts. Research honor cords (in lavender) are provided to those who apply and achieve the Distinction in Research award. The Honor cord and a medallion will be provided to those who apply and achieve the Distinction of Excellence in Research.
Application Deadlines:
- Fall Graduation: December 1st
- Spring Graduation: April 15th
Learn more about eligibility for distinctions in research
Faculty Awards
Faculty mentoring is a very important part of undergraduate research. We value the time, effort, and energy put into guiding students through the discovery process. Students are encouraged to recognize and show their appreciation by nominating a mentor for one of our awards.
Learn more about faculty mentor awards
Additional AU Sources of Funding for Student Research
Deadline to apply: typically late September
Funded by the AU Provost's Office to encourage research, scholarship, and creative
activities by students. 20 vouchers up to $1000 each for meritorious activities.
Student Government Association (SGA)
Open to various requests including travel and research expenses.
Pamplin Student Research Travel Grant
Supports faculty mentored student research fall and spring semester awards. See the Pamplin research website about the Center
for Social Science Research, student publications and travel grants. Contact the Dean of Research in the Pamplin College for more information.
College of Science and Mathematics Student Research Travel Grant (PSRT)
Faculty or Students (under faculty guidance) may apply for funding to support research
and scholarly activities that are specifically marked for student expenses. Two funding
cycles: fall, spring/summer. See the CSM Research page section titled Supporting Student
Research.