Frequently Asked Questions
General Internship Questions
General Application Questions
Application Process
Uploading Documents
Converting to PDF
Deadlines
Stipend Information
Contact Information
Q: What are the requirements for the essay questions in the application?
A: There is not a word maximum or minimum on the essay questions. However, we do ask that you write in complete sentences paying close attention to grammar and spelling. Please also indicate details about your experiences that may enhance your application. NASA coordinators and mentors are reading student answers to the essay questions to gain a better more detailed perspective of the applicant’s skills, academics, and experiences.
Q: Does USRP offer health, dental or any other medical insurance benefits for interns?
A: No, NASA USRP does not offer medical benefits of any kind. You will not be considered a full time employee during the time of your internship.
Q: What positions are available?
A: When you apply to USRP you apply more to a center or research area than to a specific job. Internship work opportunities change continuously and because of that we leave it up to the NASA scientists and engineers to decide who is most applicable to their specific projects. Select the top 3 places where you want to be and let NASA take care of the rest. We suggest you do some homework on each center and find out where your strengths might best be applied.
Q: When is the internship start date?
A: Internship start dates are subject specific to each NASA center. Start and end dates can also be adjusted to the needs of the particular student with the agreement of the NASA Center coordinator and/or mentor. However, general start and end dates are as follows;
Spring Session; January – May
Summer Session; June – August
Fall Session; September - December
(For students attending universities that are on the quarter system, winter and spring quarters translate into the USRP spring session.)
Q: How long is the internship session?
A: Internship sessions are between 10-15 weeks. Sessions can be adjusted based upon agreements with NASA center or project mentor.
Q: Where are the internships located?
A: Internship locations range from all twelve NASA centers and research facilities from across the country. Go to the USRP internship locations page to learn more.
Q: What if I am traveling from outside the U.S. will NASA reimburse me?
A: Reimbursement for international travel is determined on a case by case basis. Special procedures for international travel reimbursement must be followed and there is a limit to the amount that NASA will reimburse this type of travel. Contact a program administrator for more information if you receive an internship offer and will be traveling from outside of the U.S.
Q: I am majoring in psychology, am I eligible?
A: No, we apologize but we would only allow a double major or some specialization focus in a science, math or engineering degree to be eligible for a USRP internship.
Q: I am majoring in a non-science related field, am I eligible?
A: No, the only way we could allow a non-science major into USRP is if they had double major or some specialization focus in a science, math or engineering degree to be eligible for a USRP internship.
Q: I am majoring in a technology field, am I eligible?
A: No, we apologize but most technology majors are not eligible. To be considered, students must have additional applicable coursework in science, math or engineering fields. If you have questions concerning your eligibility, contact your USRP administrator. Check the contact us page for contact information.
Q: I am majoring in a life sciences field, am I eligible?
A: Yes, we absolutely encourage and accept life sciences majors.
Q: How can I be considered a top candidate?
A: A good attitude is first and foremost. If you dream of working for NASA or if you just think NASA offers up some cool opportunities for undergrads and you have the necessary skills for the job then chances are you are a good candidate for the NASA USRP program.
Q: What are you looking for in an intern?
A: Each center is looking for different qualities in an intern. Selection is based mainly upon the current needs of the mentor in charge of each project. However, a positive attitude and a strong desire to work in the NASA community is a great start.
Q: How do USRP interns acquire housing, meals, and other necessities during the internship?
A: A NASA USRP Coordinator is located at each of the NASA Centers. These USRP Coordinators help guide and inform USRP interns as to available housing options in their area. Many times, they help the students to connect to share housing if desired. The stipend you receive for your internship can be used to defray expenses such as tuition, fees, books, supplies, and living expenses. You are responsible for meals, etc. while you are an intern.
Q: Can USRP interns get to take vacation days during the internship?
A: No, only with the exception of federal holidays USRP interns do not receive vacation time or days off days during their internship. At the time of the offer acceptance, interns are making the choice to work the required 40 hours per week every week for the duration of the internship session.
Q: How many times can I participate in USRP?
A: Students may only participate in USRP for 1 session per calendar year.
General Application Questions
Q. What is the best way for my application to be noticed for this program?
A. As with any application, you want to highlight the strengths you have as an individual. Think of this application in the same terms you would while applying for a job. Most applications are searched today using key words. Use your resume and your answers to the essay questions to highlight your skill sets and any assets/talents you bring to the team. Think strategically about what this internship might mean in terms of gaining knowledge and experience that will further your career pathway and eventually successfully working in the space field. Make your application / resume look as professional as you can. Read through the program’s FAQs that are posted and public web pages aimed at students or participants to gain any insight into what the program might be looking for as far as strong candidates for their programs.
Q: What are your requirements for transcripts?
A: A transcript is a copy of a student’s permanent academic record. Students should obtain a transcript from their university registrar’s office. Transcripts need to be uploaded as a PDF in the USRP electronic application process.
Q: Can I upload an unofficial transcript?
A: Yes, we accept unofficial transcripts
Q: What are your requirements for letters of recommendation?
A: USRP requires one letter of recommendation. Detailed instructions are included in the application. It is preferred that Letters of Recommendation be submitted from faculty at their current institution, however, recommendations may be submitted by other relevant persons. Examples of relevant Recommendations include: teaching assistants, academic advisors, faculty from an institution previously attended, teachers from high school (if recent enough), employers/supervisors who can speak of your relevant experience/credentials/academic potential, etc. Keep in mind that recommendations should address your qualifications. Students applying for multiple sessions may use the same Letter or Recommendation for each session. It is not necessary to submit a Recommendation for each session, however, you may submit additional Recommendations if desired.
Q: Will I be able to submit my application if my professor sends in my letter of recommendation after the application deadline?
A: No. However, if you have at least one letter of recommendation received then you will be able to submit your application. Other letters of recommendation that are submitted after the deadline will still be reviewed as part of your application.
Q: I can not submit my application, what should I do?
A: Not being able to submit your application could mean that you have not completed all the required fields of the application. If you can not find the answer you are looking for here in the FAQ’s, please contact a USRP administrator. Check the contact us page for contact information.
Q: What do I do after I finish all the application fields?
A: Once all of the application sections show “complete”, you must then certify and submit the application.
Q: My recommender is having trouble opening the letter of recommendation link that was sent to him/her, what should I do?
A: There could be a variety of reasons for this issue. Recommenders who are having trouble uploading a letter of recommendation can contact someone from our administrative staff to assist them check the contact us page for contact information.
Q: Can I mail in my letter of recommendation if my recommender has already written it?
A: No, we no longer accept hard copies of letters of recommendation. You must attach letters of recommendation to your application electronically.
Q: What should be included in a letter of recommendation?
A: A letter of recommendation should give an accurate and positive portrayal of the student applying. The letter of recommendation should state reasons as to why the student is or may likely be a successful candidate. Typically a letter of recommendation is a formal letter written by someone who has had/has a professional or educational relationship with the applicant. This letter can be as formal or informal as the recommender likes. The only requirement is that the letter is uploaded through our online application system.
Q: Who should write a letter of recommendation for me?
A: A letter of recommendation should be written by someone whom you feel has had a personal knowledge of your professional or educational qualifications. As a student this can be anyone whom you have a professional relationship with that is not you’re relative. We also suggest that you be mindful of who you choose to write a letter of recommendation for you. Be sure the person you choose is a person that will speak of you favorably.
Q: When can I apply for a future session?
A: We will generally begin accepting applications 6-9 months prior to the session date deadline. Students will have plenty of time to begin and finish an application.
Q: How long does it take to fill out an application?
A: The electronic application can be completed in 30 minutes. Information uploaded or filled in to the application can be saved for future completion.
Q: Is there a better chance for being selected if I submit my application before the deadline?
A: Let us just say…Maybe. Some NASA centers will be checking for student applications before the stated deadline has passed the due date. So, there is a chance that if you have submitted your application early a center will send you an early offer. Some centers tend to want to select students sooner than others.
Q: My institution of higher education does not allow me to stay at full time student status if I take an internship in the fall or spring, what should I do?
A: This would be a judgment call. However, we feel that an internship with NASA would add great value to your list of accomplishments. Some students just want to finish school as quickly as possible. But we feel it is worth the time and effort to if necessary stay in school longer in order to build a formula of credentials that will enable you to succeed post graduation.
Q: Can I mail in my transcript?
A: No, NASA USRP is no longer accepting hard copies of transcripts or other official documents. If you are having trouble with uploading official documents you may contact a USRP administrator for assistance.
Q: I am a naturalized citizen, can I still apply?
A: Yes, a naturalized citizen does hold U.S. citizenship. You will need to claim when and where you were naturalized on your USRP application. Failure to do so can wreak havoc on the badging process which could keep you from being able to work for NASA.
Q: I am a permanent resident, can I still apply?
A: No, NASA USRP only allows United States citizens to apply. We apologize but this is the policy. Permanent residency does not classify as citizenship. If you do not claim your correct citizenship status on the application and you are accepted for an internship you will not be permitted on to the NASA premises.
Q: I have a parent that is a U.S. citizen, am I eligible to apply?
A: Citizenship of your parents does not classify you as a citizen.
Q: I am a U.S. citizen but I am attending an institution in another country, can I still apply?
A: Yes. For more information on troubleshooting an issue with your application, go to the application process section of the FAQ’s.
Application Process
Q: How does the application process work?
A: In the spirit of providing students unique and exciting experiences in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, we are pleased to announce our new approach to the intern application process with the introduction of the NASA One Stop Shopping Initiative (OSSI) Student On-Line Application for Recruiting Interns, Fellows and Scholars, otherwise known as the SOLAR system. The OSSI SOLAR system is an innovative system that allows students to search and apply for most NASA internship, fellowship, and scholarship opportunities in one system. A single internship or fellowship application places the student in the applicant pool for consideration by NASA mentors.
Q: I have a GPA lower than 3.0 is there any chance I can still be accepted?
A: No, we apologize but this is a required aspect of our application.
Q: I attend a university that is not located within the United States, and I am having trouble entering my GPA, what should I do?
A: Most international universities probably do not use the U.S. universities typical 4.0 GPA system. So, you will need to go to your registrar’s office to find out how your GPA system translates into a 4.0 scale. Enter the number that they are able to provide for you in the appropriate field. And then upload whatever transcript you have.
Q: How will I know if I am accepted?
A: If you are selected for a NASA internship, you will receive an "e-offer" via e-mail from a NASA Center with a description of the project you are being offered. Once you receive that e-mail, you will have one week to decide if you are going to accept the offer presented. After the one week deadline has passed, the offer will expire.
Q: When will I be notified if I am accepted or not?
A: Notifications will be sent out generally about 1-3 months after the session application deadline. We will list accepted session applicants on the web site. Specific dates that offer letters are sent out to students depend on the NASA center from which the offer is being extended.
Q: What is an “e-offer” letter?
A: An e-offer letter is an email that is sent out to a NASA USRP applicant informing them that have been selected by a NASA center for a USRP internship opportunity. Once the e-offer is received the student has one week to accept. After one week the offer will expire.
Q: Does NASA offer any other programs that I may be eligible for?
A: In addition to the NASA-USRP, NASA has other student programs that may be of interest. Some programs accept applications from Permanent Residents and graduate students (as well as newly graduated). Visit NASA's Student Opportunities website and specific NASA Centers at which you would like to work. Programs that may be of interest for undergraduates are LARSS - Langley Aerospace Research Summer Scholars and the NASA Academy. Check with specific Centers’ education departments to find out more about other programs. Graduate students should learn more about NASA-GSRP - Graduate Student Researchers Program. Caltech also offers undergraduates research opportunities through MURF - Minority Undergraduate Research Fellowships and SURF - Summer Undergraduate Student Research Fellowships. The National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program provides undergraduate scholarships and graduate fellowships for students pursuing research studies. Another resource website is http://www.tech-interns.com. Please also refer to NASA’s higher education site to view a list of other educational programs at www.nasa.gov/forstudents.html.
Q: I missed the deadline can I still apply?
A: No, but please do not be discouraged. We encourage you to apply for the next open session. There may still be a chance that you can obtain an internship with NASA.
Q: How is the stipend/scholarship paid?
A: Beginning Summer 2010, USRP stipend and scholarship payments will be made via Direct Deposit. This will require all students to set-up direct deposit once they accept the internship. Stipend and scholarship payment schedules will be detailed in the e-offer letter.
Q: How will I know if I am accepted?
A: If you are selected for a NASA internship, you will receive an "e-offer" via e-mail from a NASA Center with a description of the project you are being offered. Once you receive that e-mail, you will have one week to decide if you are going to accept the offer presented. After the one week deadline has passed, the offer will expire. USRP will also send an email notification to all the USRP applicants letting everyone know that the selection process has been finalized.
Q: Will I be notified if I am NOT accepted?
A: Yes, USRP will send an email notification to all USRP applicants once the selection process is finalized.
Q: When will selection notifications be sent?
A: NASA Centers are allotted a specified timeframe after the session deadline to finalize their decisions. However, the amount of time that selections take varies based upon NASA Center and the USRP session. Selection notifications occur once a mentor has made final hiring decisions for their research project. Because selections are made by individual NASA research projects the selection process does take time but it is a continuous flow during the selection process timeframe. Once all selections are made an email notification is sent to all USRP applicants.
Uploading Documents
Q: Can I upload more than one letter of recommendation?
A: Yes, you may send as many requests for letters of recommendation as you like. However, USRP only requires one letter.
Q: How do I upload my document(s)?
A(1): To upload transcripts you will need to upload a PDF version. USRP accepts unofficial transcripts or official transcripts. If you have received a hard copy of your transcript from your university registrar then you will first need to scan your transcript in as a PDF. Scanning documents automatically converts them into PDF. If you are still having trouble converting your transcript into a PDF for whatever reason please refer to the PDF section of the FAQ’s or search the internet to download PDF conversion software or contact us. Note: Please white-out or delete any personal identity information such as social security number, home address etc...
A(2): To upload resume’s you will first need to convert your resume document into a PDF. If you are having trouble converting your document into a PDF please refer to the PDF section of the FAQ’s or search the internet to download PDF conversion software or contact us.
A(3): To send a letter of recommendation request simply input the reference information in the appropriate fields in the letter of recommendation section of the application. Once you have inputted the reference’s information you can click “submit”. The letter of recommendation request will be sent to the recommender’s email that you provided. The status of this letter will be indicated below the request form. Once the letter is received the status should indicate “received”. Repeat process to send another request.
PDF
Q: How do I convert my document(s) to Portable Document Format (PDF)?
A: Converting documents to PDF depends on the type of operating system and software you are working with. PDF generator software is available to help you save your documents as PDF's. There are several programs available for both PCs and Macs, along with websites that will perform the conversion for you. An online search can enable you to find this type of software.
Deadlines
Q: I missed the deadline can I still apply?
A: No, but please do not be discouraged. We encourage you to apply for the next open session. There is still a chance you can work for NASA.
Stipend Information and Travel Reimbursement
Q: What is the difference between a scholarship and a stipend?
A: A stipend is generally an amount paid for the benefit of a student. Stipends are payments that can be used by the recipient to defray expenses such as tuition, fees, books, supplies, and living expenses. A scholarship is a fixed sum of money given to a student for the purposes of paying at least part of the cost of college. Scholarships will only be awarded to students who meet the scholarship criteria.
Q: What do I claim on my tax forms as an intern?
A: Taxes are not taken out of the USRP stipend or scholarship. It is your sole responsibility to accurately reflect your stipend or scholarship on your income tax returns. USRP interns are not considered USRA employees. Interns who elect to receive a stipend will be mailed a Form 1099 in late January. Scholarship recipients will be mailed a scholarship letter.
Q: Who can I contact regarding the taxation of stipends and scholarships?
A: As the taxation of stipends and scholarships can be complex, recipients are urged to contact outside tax professionals and/or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for tax-related questions. USRA cannot provide information or consultation on any personal income tax matters.
Q: How much is the stipend/scholarship paid for an internship?
A: The stipend/scholarship payment at each NASA Center is $9,500 for a Spring or Fall internship and $6,500 for a Summer internship.
Q: How is the stipend/scholarship paid?
A: Beginning Summer 2010, USRP stipend and scholarship payments will be made via Direct Deposit. This will require all students to set-up direct deposit once they accept the internship. Stipend and scholarship payment schedules will be detailed in the e-offer letter.
Q: Does USRP pay travel expenses?
A: No. Students receive a stipend $6,500 (10-week summer session) or $9,500 (15-week spring or fall session) for the research experience which is intended to cover both travel and living expenses. A location allowance may be provided for students at specific high cost of living NASA Centers (Ames and Goddard). At the completion of the research session, students must submit a paper on their NASA-USRP research experience. Students may also be asked to discuss their research in public forums and/or participate in NASA-sponsored colloquia, workshops and technology demonstrations.
Contact Information
Q: Who can I contact about the internship program?
A: You may contact Anthony Zippay. Feel free to e-mail or call me anytime. Seriously I love helping gifted young people; it’s why I work here.
Anthony Zippay
NASA USRP Project Administrator
Office Phone1: 281-244-2027
Office Phone2: 281-483-2509
zippay@epo.usra.edu