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Next Step Forward is an independent education publication and is not affiliated with the U.S. National Science Foundation.

Worksheet

Research Application Planner

Plan and track several research program applications: deadlines, materials, recommenders and status, saved only on your device.

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Who it helps

Undergraduates applying to several research programs at once, such as REU sites, summer research programs or lab-based internships, who want one place to track deadlines, materials and recommenders.

How to use it

  1. Add one entry per program. Copy the program name, official page, deadline and published time zone straight from the program’s own website.
  2. Tick materials as they’re ready. Use the checkboxes to see at a glance what’s still missing for each application.
  3. Note each program’s prompt and limits in the notes field, because they often differ.
  4. Work through “For every application” once for each program, especially the personal deadline a few days early.
  5. Download a copy if you want a backup or to move to another device. The spreadsheet version opens in Excel, Google Sheets or Numbers.

For help with the materials themselves, see our guides to the REU personal statement and how to email a professor about research. For the bigger picture, start with undergraduate research opportunities or our REU guide.

Your entries stay on this device. They're saved only in this browser, so nothing you type is sent to Next Step Forward or anyone else. Using a private window, clearing your browser data or switching devices removes them, so download a copy if you want to keep it.

Nothing saved yet.

Your applications

Add one entry per program. Copy deadlines and time zones exactly from each official page.

Application 1

For every application

Prefer paper or a spreadsheet?

Download a blank copy. No sign-up or email needed.

Limitations

  • Deadlines and requirements change between cycles. Always copy them from each program's official page, and check that page again before you submit.
  • This planner doesn't send reminders. Add deadlines to your own calendar as well.
  • Entries are saved only in this browser. They won't appear on another device, and clearing your browser data removes them.

Spotted an error or outdated detail? Request a correction.

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