Imperial College London Summer Research Exchange

Program Details

Imperial is the only university in the UK to focus exclusively on science, engineering, medicine and business. Consistently rated amongst the world's best research universities, Imperial is committed to developing the next generation of researchers, scientists and academics across disciplines. Located in the heart of London, Imperial is a multidisciplinary space for education, research, commercialization and harnessing science and innovation to take global challenges.

This exchange program lasts for 8 weeks, from early July to late August. Exact dates for summer 2024 are Jul 1 - Aug 23. Participating departments typically nominate 2 MIT students to participate in the exchange.

The exchange is open to undergraduate students majoring in one of the participating departments. Participating departments for 2024 are 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 16, 18, 22. Some departments will consider graduating seniors -- please check with your department's UG officer.

Students should be in good academic and judicial standing.

All students should apply through the MISTI portal.

Application deadline: December 15th, 2023.

Students are encouraged to review the research groups at the corresponding Imperial department prior to applying, in order to understand particular research strengths and focuses. Each department will do their best to match students with a project that corresponds to their research interests.

MIT-UK and participating departments cover the cost of flights, housing, and a stipend to cover on-the ground expenses (meals and transportation) for the summer. Students do not need to spend any money to participate in the exchange, but excursions and activities outside the core activity of the exchange are not included. The cost of living in London is comparable to Boston. There are lots of free museums, parks, exhibitions, and carnivals to explore, especially during the summer.

MIT students live in an Imperial residence halls. Most recently, students have stayed in either Evelyn Gardens in Kensington, or Xenia in Waterloo.

Students participating in the exchange need a Short-Term Study Visa; however, US citizens do not need to submit an application in advance. The Short-Term Study Visa is granted at the port of entry (UK airport) by a UK immigration officer upon review of an admission letter and financial solvency documents.

Non-US citizens should follow the UK visa process based on their citizenship and should consult with the MIT International Student Office about reentry to the US after study abroad.