Credit: NASA
Undergraduate Student Design Projects
NASA is committed to strengthening the nation’s STEM workforce by engaging students directly in its mission. The Agency recognizes the importance of preparing future STEM professionals and seeks to establish collaborations with higher education institutions to better prepare undergraduate students for STEM careers. Through the Undergraduate Student Design Projects initiative, students engage in authentic research and design activities directly aligned with current NASA missions. These activities are essential to ensuring that the next generation of explorers has the technical skills needed to advance the nation’s work in aeronautics and space.
Selected student teams receive access to NASA’s scientific and technical expertise, relevant data sets, and structured mentorship to support the successful completion of their projects and the development of subject‑matter proficiency. Throughout the academic year, NASA specialists provide periodic guidance, while a designated faculty advisor offers ongoing day‑to‑day support. In accordance with institutional requirements, participating students will earn academic credit for their work or apply their project contributions toward their broader academic coursework.
2026 – 2027 Timeline
All dates are subject to change.
- Aug. 17, 2026: Application Opens
- Sept. 14, 2026: Application Closes
- Sept. 25, 2026: Selections Announced
- Sept. 28-Oct. 31, 2026: Virtual Kickoff Meetings & Funds Distribution
- Jan. 11-Feb. 26, 2027: Virtual Mid-Point Design Reviews with NASA Subject Matter Expert
- Apr. 5-30, 2027: Virtual Final Design Reviews with NASA Subject Matter Expert