The NASA LPI Summer Internship Program 2026 in the United States offers one of the most prestigious and fully funded research opportunities for international undergraduate students interested in planetary science, space research, and NASA-supported scientific work. Hosted in Houston, Texas, this paid internship provides a 10-week immersive research experience from 1 June 2026 to 8 August 2026. No IELTS or TOEFL is required if you can provide an English Proficiency Certificate.
Summary of the Internship Program
- Host Country: United States of America
- Host Institute: Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI)
- Internship Duration: 1 June 2026 – 8 August 2026
- Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
- Eligibility: International undergraduate students
- Location: Houston, Texas, near NASA Johnson Space Center
- Application Deadline: 12 December 2025
Overview of the NASA LPI Summer Internship Program 2026
The Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) offers one of the top fully funded undergraduate internships in the USA. The program has no application fee and welcomes candidates from all nationalities without discrimination based on race, color, gender, nationality, or age. Selected interns engage in hands-on scientific work, mentorship sessions, professional development activities, and NASA facility visits.
Internship Funding and Allowances
The NASA LPI Internship is a fully funded program covering all major expenses. Each selected student receives:
- USD $8,056 total stipend for the 10-week program (covers housing, living, and travel expenses).
- Up to USD $1,500 additional support for international travel.
- Internship stipends included in the total amount.
- Conference support:
- Up to $1,000 for domestic interns
- Up to $1,500 for international interns
For students submitting an accepted first-author abstract to the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference.
Professional Benefits of the Internship
The NASA LPI Internship provides:
- Hands-on experience conducting meaningful planetary science research.
- Opportunities to develop and enhance scientific and analytical skills.
- Networking with NASA researchers and global scientific experts.
- Access to NASA Johnson Space Center visits, workshops, and lectures.
- Exposure to real-world research environments and career pathways in planetary science.
Internship Focus (LPI Summer Internship)
This paid summer internship in planetary science enables undergraduates to work directly with NASA-affiliated scientists on active, peer-reviewed research projects. Interns also participate in enrichment activities such as scientific lectures, social events, and professional development workshops. Appointments are made solely based on academic and professional merit.
About the Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI)
The LPI supports NASA’s scientific mission by conducting advanced research in lunar, planetary, and solar system science. Located minutes away from NASA’s Johnson Space Center, LPI serves as a leading hub for planetary science research and academic advancement.
Eligibility Criteria for NASA LPI Internship 2026
To qualify for this fully funded internship in the USA, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be an undergraduate student at the time of application.
- Must be able to commit to 50 semester hours of lunar and planetary science work during the internship.
- Students majoring in physics, mathematics, computer science, or engineering receive preference, though all eligible majors may apply.
- International applicants must provide either:
- IELTS/TOEFL scores, or
- An English Proficiency Certificate confirming strong written and spoken English skills.
Selection Criteria
Candidates are chosen based on:
- Academic performance and coursework
- Research interest and career objectives
- Relevant experience
- Alignment between applicant research interests and available LPI research projects
Results will be announced in March 2025. Selected students must respond within two working days, or their offer will be withdrawn.
Application Process for NASA LPI Internship 2026
Follow these steps to apply:
-
Complete the online application form (paper applications are not accepted).
- Answer all sections, including essay-style responses.
- Submit three recommendation letters (references may upload letters separately).
- Ensure your official transcripts are sent directly from your university registrar to:
LPI Summer Intern Program, Application #,
3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058-1113, USA. - Provide proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS or University English Certificate).
- All documents, including transcripts and recommendation letters, must be received by 12 December 2025 at 11:59 PM CST.
Upon submission, applicants receive an email confirmation and a link to check the status of reference letters.
Applications must be submitted online through the official LPI portal:
