STEP-UP Application

Application Overview

Summer 2025 applications are open October 15 – February 1.

General requirements

Applicants must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or legal permanent resident, and give proof of personal medical/health insurance coverage throughout the duration of the program.

Academic requirements

Applicants must be enrolled as a full-time student at a U.S. accredited two-year or four-year college or university. Graduating college seniors are not eligible for the program. Students must be 18 years of age at the start of the program. Applicants must have a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 or better (on a 4.0 scale), although exceptions may be granted

Professional effort

This is a rigorous research program in a professional setting. All trainees are required to pursue their research training full-time, defined as 40 hours per week, throughout the duration of the program.  Accepted scholars are expected to make research a priority, and are not allowed to participate in additional summer research programs while in the STEP-UP Program. Prior to joining the STEP-UP Program, scholars must notify Program Directors of any additional employment plans or outside coursework. 

Diversity and Equity

STEP-UP encourages individuals from underrepresented in medicine (URiM) groups such as, those with a disability, first generation college students, or from a disadvantaged background to apply. Consistent with applicable law, an applicant’s race, ethnicity or sex may not be considered as a factor for purposes of program eligibility or selection. 

For additional questions regarding eligibility requirements, please visit the NIDDK STEP-UP FAQs or contact NIDDK STEP-UP Program Staff.

Application materials

  1. Application
  2. Personal Statement (600 words or less)
  3. Two letters of recommendation from academic references
    1. If a returning participant, at least one letter must be from your most recent STEP-UP mentor
  4. Academic Transcript
    1. Reflects all earned credits and grades through December.
  5. Resume

Applications are accepted directly via the NIDDK STEP-UP portal. For further details on the application process, steps and deadlines, visit the NIDDK STEP-UP site.