💡 Overview

Applications are now open for the NASA LPI Summer Internship Program 2026, one of the most prestigious fully funded research internships in the United States for international students.

Hosted by the Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) in Houston, Texas, this 10-week program offers undergraduate students the chance to work with leading NASA scientists on real planetary research projects. Participants gain hands-on experience in planetary science, research methods, and professional development while joining a global community of aspiring space researchers.

🗓️ Internship Dates: 1 June – 8 August 2026

📍 Location: Houston, USA

🎯 Internship Benefits

💰 Stipend: $8,056 USD for 10 weeks

🏠 Housing and living expenses fully covered

✈️ Travel support:

$1,000 USD (domestic) or up to $1,500 USD (international) 🌍 Additional grant: Up to $1,500 for interns presenting research at the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference 📚 No application fee and no IELTS/TOEFL required — you can apply with an English proficiency letter

🔭 Internship Highlights

🌕 Work alongside NASA scientists on active planetary science projects

📈 Gain research and analytical experience

🎓 Participate in lectures, workshops, and professional development sessions

🏢 Visit the NASA Johnson Space Center and attend enrichment events

🌎 Build a network of mentors, researchers, and international peers

🎓 Eligibility Criteria

✅ Open to all nationalities

🎓 Must be a current undergraduate student

🪐 Majors in Physics, Astronomy, Mathematics, Computer Science, or Engineering preferred (but all fields eligible)

📄 Must have completed at least 50 semester hours of college credit before the internship begins

💬 English proficiency certificate accepted in place of IELTS/TOEFL

🧠 Selection based on academic record, research interest, experience, and project match

🗓️ Important Dates

Application Deadline: 12 December 2025 (11:59 p.m. CST) Results Announcement: March 2026 Internship Period: 1 June – 8 August 2026

🌐 Application Process

1️⃣ Complete the online application form: https://www.lpi.usra.edu/lpiintern/app/application_form/

2️⃣ Submit required materials:

Official transcript 3 recommendation letters Short essays and supporting documents 3️⃣ If you’re an international applicant, upload proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or professor’s letter). 4️⃣ Confirm submission and await notification by March 2026.

📄 Official Program Page: https://www.lpi.usra.edu/lpiintern/

⚠️ Important Notice

1️⃣ Source of Information

This announcement is based on the official posting from the Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI).

2️⃣ Responsibility for Content

The Lunar and Planetary Institute is solely responsible for all details and updates.

3️⃣ Right to Modify or Withdraw

LPI reserves the right to modify internship terms, dates, or funding details.

4️⃣ Disclaimer of Liability

YouthWorks Hub is not responsible for any updates, changes, or cancellations made by NASA or LPI.

💡 Final Note:

All listings are shared for informational purposes only. Please always verify details directly via the official LPI website before applying.