We are currently not accepting applications to the Student-at-Sea program. If you would like to be added to our contact list for when we open our call please fill out this short form. Please do not send emails.
When Schmidt Ocean Institute is accepting applicants, students must complete an online application and submit all supplemental information indicated below. In addition to application approval, successful applicants will be required to complete a medical questionnaire and have a passport valid for at least six months past the start of the cruise. Depending on the student’s nationality, a visa may be required. While Schmidt Ocean Institute does cover reasonable travel expenses, SOI does not provide financial support for students taking part in these opportunities.
Please review the program details above and the Frequently Asked Questions before contacting us with any other questions.
Student applicants must fill out an online application and provide the following supplemental information:
- Two signed letters of recommendation, including one from the student’s major professor (or professional equivalent); if no major professor exists, a faculty person academically knowing the applicant best may be substituted. Please note these letters should be submitted directly via email by reference. They will be due the same deadline/date as online applications.
- Personal and academic curriculum vitae or resume (not to exceed two pages).
- Copy of undergraduate/graduate student transcripts (online or unofficial copies are okay).
All supplemental information excluding letters of support should be submitted as one PDF file and include your name. Application forms and supplemental information must be received by midnight of the deadline date indicated for each cruise opportunity. Supplemental information can be emailed. Letters of recommendation should be submitted directly from reference via email. Incomplete applications or materials submitted after the deadline will not be reviewed.
Review Process
All applications to take part in a Student Cruise Opportunity will be reviewed by Schmidt Ocean Institute staff and members of the research group the applicant desires to work with. Students may expect to receive notification of their application no later than one month prior to cruise departure. Schmidt Ocean Institute staff will review all applications to determine the most suitable candidates. All aspects of an applicant’s package will be considered, including but not limited to: experience, interests, research plan, overarching career goals, academic qualification, professional qualification and creative innovation. A prioritized list of the top candidates will be shared with the investigative team and selections will be made jointly by Schmidt Ocean Institute and the research team. The total number of successful applicants will depend on berth availability, staff and/or researcher availability and logistics of a Principal Investigators cruise plan.
All applications to take part in a Student Cruise Opportunity will be reviewed by Schmidt Ocean Institute staff and members of the research group the applicant desires to work with.
