Draper Scholars Program

Two Worlds Collide with Draper Scholars Program

At Draper, we integrate academic research with practical problem-solving by providing a platform for advancing your field through graduate thesis research while addressing crucial challenges in national security. Our scholars gain access to state-of-the-art facilities, expertise from our skilled team, and a cohesive learning environment as they evolve into the next generation of innovators.

Our Program Admissions

Our program is designed to transform exceptional students into innovative professionals by integrating thesis research with hands-on experience. Learn more about how to start your journey in our Scholars Program with our team.

  • Applications are now closed
  • The Scholars program focuses on empowering students within 14 key research areas

Prospective scholars need to meet the following eligibility requirements to apply:

  • Must be a U.S. citizen
  • Scholar Awards will be contingent on the Scholar being accepted and enrolled in a thesis-bearing degree program at one of our partner universities. Simultaneous application to the Scholars Program and the university is acceptable.

* Universities with an asterisk below are in the process of becoming a partner in the Draper Scholars Program. Offers to become a Draper Scholar at these universities are tentative until the partnership is finalized.

  • Boston University
  • Brown University
  • George Mason University
  • Georgia Institute of Technology
  • Harvard University
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  • Northeastern University
  • Purdue University
  • Rice University
  • Texas A&M University*
  • Tufts University
  • University of Colorado, Boulder
  • University of Florida (Accepting PhD Candidates Only)
  • University of Massachusetts, Lowell
  • University of Michigan
  • University of South Florida
  • Worcester Polytechnic Institute

When applying to the Draper Scholars Program, prospective scholars must submit the following:

  1. Resume and transcript
  2. Statement of purpose
  3. Contact information for two references
  4. University application status

Students are strongly encouraged to coordinate with Draper staff and university faculty before applying to the Scholars Program.

Admission Status

Closed

Dates to Remember

December 1, 2024

Scholar applications open

December 31, 2024

Research proposals are due by professors and our staff

February 15, 2025

Scholar Applications are due

March 15, 2025

Scholar offers are made

May 15, 2025

Scholar offer acceptance deadline

August 19, 2025

Scholar orientation, semester begins (start dates vary by university)

Key Research Areas

The Draper Scholars Program encourages students to align their research to our 14 key research areas.

1

Advanced Position, Navigation, and Timing

2

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

3

Assured Position, Navigation and Timing

4

Autonomy

5

Biotechnology

6

Cyber

7

Design Methodology

8

Emerging, Potential Disruptive Technology

9

Humans Systems Technology

10

Hypersonics

11

Materials Design & Development

12

Photonics Packaging

13

Hardened Microelectronics

14

Sensors and Comms

15

Terrain Relative and Vision-Aided Navigation

We Propel Collaboration with University Faculty and Staff

We are actively seeking collaborative research partners among our university affiliates to advance key technologies of mutual interest.

Detailed descriptions of our technology interests and contacts can be found on our Research Topics page. All technical points of contact are our employees. If you are interested, please reach out to them, and they will collaborate with our education office to facilitate the submission of a Collaborative Research Proposal Form. An example of the form is below.

An example of the Draper/University Collaborative Research Proposal. This outlines the proposal that is submitted by Draper staff.

The Draper Scholars Research Symposium Displays Our Engineered Success

We have recently organized a symposium for our Scholars and Undergraduate Capstone Students. We plan to make this an annual program every spring.

View Draper Scholar Posters

Introducing Innovators:

Meet Our Scholars Fueling Innovation

Kristen Ahner

Kristen Ahner

University of Colorado, Boulder | AeroAstro | PhD

William Babincsak

William Babincsak

WPI | Robotics Engineering | PhD

Aaron Baumgart

Aaron Baumgart

Brown University | Physics | PhD

Stay in Touch with Us

To learn more or stay up to date with our programs, please fill out the contact form below.

*Required field

This site is protected by hCaptcha and its Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Groundbreaking Opportunities to Enhance Your Career

Student Opportunities

Undergraduate and graduate students can gain valuable hands-on experience through our co-op education and internship programs. Students can receive academic credit and have the opportunity to present their research outcomes.

Learn More About Student Opportunities

Service Member Opportunities

We are honored to assist active service members as they transition from military to civilian life. Through our partnerships with SkillBridge, we offer full-time internships across multiple departments.

Learn More About Service Member Opportunities