Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are international students eligible?

    • Yes, the challenge is open for international students!

  • Do you have to be an international student?

    • No. We definitely encourage US students to apply!

  • Are graduate students eligible?

    • Yes, graduate students are eligible, that also includes PhD students from other countries.

  • Can freshmen apply?

    • Yes, freshmen are eligible to apply as well, we are aware that freshmen don’t have as much experience as more advanced students. Enthusiasm about space exploration and willingness to learn are what we are looking for.

  • Can high school students apply?

    • No, this challenge is only open for college and university students. Feel free to apply for the next edition of the Caltech Space Challenge in 2025!

  • Is there a minimum age for participation?

    • Yes, participants have to be at least 18 years of age.

  • What is the cost of travel for the challenge?

    • We’ll be providing a full or partial reimbursement. Living expenses for the duration of the program will be covered.

  • What language can the application and letter of recommendation be in?

    • Letters of recommendation are preferred in English. If a letter of recommendation is in a foreign language, the applicant must translate it and include it in the additional information section of the application form.

  • Do students have to secure their own travel visa?

    • Yes, however, we will provide an acceptance letter upon request that can be used for your visa application and we will issue a full to partial reimbursement of the visa fees.

  • What will be the date and the duration of the program?

    • The challenge will take place for one week, starting with an opening ceremony on Sunday the 20th of March 2022 and ending on Friday the 25th.

  • Will the programme occur offline (on-campus) or remotely via Zoom?

    • The event will be held in-person on the Caltech campus.

  • Can I register as a team of multiple members?

    • No, every application is for a single person. We will be creating the teams before the challenge from the accepted applicants. 

  • Can a non-faculty member write my letter of recommendation?

    • Yes, but we strongly advise that your letter of recommendation comes from a professor or someone who knows you well and has worked with you in a professional setting, such as an employer or supervisor.

  • I cannot access the application form, how can I apply?