International Research Experiences for Students

The International Research Experiences for Students (IRES) program, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), supports international research engagements for U.S. undergraduate and graduate students in STEM disciplines. Administered by NSF's Office of International Science and Engineering, the IRES program aims to cultivate a globally engaged and competitive STEM workforce by providing high-quality research experiences abroad in collaboration with foreign researchers. This initiative builds international partnerships, enhances student professional development, and aligns with NSF's broader mission to promote progress in science and national welfare. The program invites proposals from U.S.-based institutions of higher education and eligible non-profit, non-academic organizations. The program does not support applications from individuals or foreign organizations. Students do not apply directly to NSF; rather, they participate in IRES activities through NSF-funded projects led by Principal Investigators (PIs) from eligible U.S. organizations. Projects typically span three years, with a maximum duration of five years, and must include a cohesive research theme supported by foreign mentors. Students are expected to work on individual projects tied to this overarching theme, ideally conducting their research as a group during coordinated travel abroad. The funding supports travel, stipends ($600–$700/week), housing, insurance, and other research-related expenses for U.S. students, but not foreign mentors or collaborators. Although two-way exchanges are encouraged, the IRES budget may not be used for international participant expenses. Projects may include K–12 educators through NSF's Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) initiative and are encouraged to incorporate hybrid or virtual collaboration models to extend the impact of international partnerships. Proposals are submitted via Research.gov or Grants.gov and must include detailed plans covering student recruitment and preparation, scientific focus, professional development, collaboration logistics, and dissemination strategies. Broadening participation in STEM among underrepresented groups is a core NSF priority, and strong recruitment plans reflecting this objective are expected. Proposals must also articulate the benefit of the foreign collaboration, with letters of support from international mentors detailing roles, available infrastructure, and mutual benefits. The next proposal deadline is October 27, 2026, with a recurring submission window on the fourth Monday in October every other year thereafter. Awards range up to $150,000 annually, totaling approximately $12 million for 20–25 anticipated awards. The designated program contact is Kristin Kuyuk, reachable at ires@nsf.gov. The proposal review process includes standard NSF merit review criteria, and selected projects are expected to participate in NSF program-level evaluation.

Proposals should justify the foreign collaboration, include robust student support and evaluation plans, and highlight efforts to broaden participation.