At Draper, we integrate academic research with practical problem-solving by providing a platform for advancing your field through graduate thesis research while addressing crucial challenges in national security. Our scholars gain access to state-of-the-art facilities, expertise from our skilled team, and a cohesive learning environment as they evolve into the next generation of innovators.
Our Program Admissions
Our program is designed to transform exceptional students into innovative professionals by integrating thesis research with hands-on experience. Learn more about how to start your journey in our Scholars Program with our team.
The Basics
- Applications are now closed
- The Scholars program focuses on empowering students within 14 key research areas
Program Requirements
Prospective scholars need to meet the following eligibility requirements to apply:
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Scholar Awards will be contingent on the Scholar being accepted and enrolled in a thesis-bearing degree program at one of our partner universities. Simultaneous application to the Scholars Program and the university is acceptable.
Participating Universities
* Universities with an asterisk below are in the process of becoming a partner in the Draper Scholars Program. Offers to become a Draper Scholar at these universities are tentative until the partnership is finalized.
- Boston University
- Brown University
- George Mason University
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Harvard University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Michigan University
- Northeastern University
- Purdue University
- Rice University
- Texas A&M University*
- Tufts University
- University of Colorado, Boulder
- University of Florida* (Accepting PhD Candidates Only)
- University of Massachusetts, Lowell
- University of Michigan
- University of South Florida
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Materials to Submit
When applying to the Draper Scholars Program, prospective scholars must submit the following:
- Resume and transcript
- Statement of purpose
- Contact information for two references
- University application status
Students are strongly encouraged to coordinate with Draper staff and university faculty before applying to the Scholars Program.
Dates to Remember
December 1, 2024
Scholar applications open
December 31, 2024
Research proposals are due by professors and our staff
February 15, 2025
Scholar Applications are due
March 15, 2025
Scholar offers are made
May 15, 2025
Scholar offer acceptance deadline
August 19, 2025
Scholar orientation, semester begins (start dates vary by university)
We Propel Collaboration with University Faculty and Staff
We are actively seeking collaborative research partners among our university affiliates to advance key technologies of mutual interest.
Detailed descriptions of our technology interests and contacts can be found on our Research Topics page. All technical points of contact are our employees. If you are interested, please reach out to them, and they will collaborate with our education office to facilitate the submission of a Collaborative Research Proposal Form. An example of the form is below.
The Draper Scholars Research Symposium Displays Our Engineered Success
We have recently organized a symposium for our Scholars and Undergraduate Capstone Students. We plan to make this an annual program every spring.
View Draper Scholar Posters
Stay in Touch with Us
To learn more or stay up to date with our programs, please fill out the contact form below.
