Undergraduate Research Support Scheme
What is the URSS?
Curious about research? Want to explore an idea of your own?
The Undergraduate Research Support Scheme (URSS) gives Warwick undergraduate students the opportunity to design and carry out an independent, non-assessed research project with support from a Warwick academic.
Explore your interests
The URSS is a chance to go beyond your usual course content and explore a subject that genuinely interests you. Your project does not have to be related to your degree, and you can carry out research in a different department from your home department.
Whether you want to investigate a question in your own field, try something completely new, or develop an idea you have been curious about, URSS gives you the freedom to shape your own research project.
Alternatively, you can apply for one of the pre-defined research projects offered by Warwick academics. These opportunities cover a range of subjects and research areas and can be viewed on the Research Opportunities webpageLink opens in a new window.
Develop valuable skills
Over 6–10 weeks, you will work independently on your project while receiving guidance and supervision from a Warwick academic. Along the way, you can develop valuable skills in areas such as:
- Independent research and critical thinking
- Project planning and time management
- Data collection and analysis
- Academic communication and presentation
- Working independently and with an academic supervisor
These are skills that can benefit you throughout your degree and beyond, whether you are considering postgraduate study, a research career, or employment after graduation.
Funding and flexibility
URSS projects are usually undertaken during the summer, between July and September. You can apply for a bursary of up to £1,500 to help with living expenses and other costs associated with your project.
You can also choose where you carry out your research. Projects can take place on campus, from home, or abroad, giving you the flexibility to design an experience that works for your project and your interests. Campus accommodation is available over the summer for students who need it.
See Student Information Centre FAQ's Section 5 (warwick.ac.uk)
Take your ideas further
The URSS is more than an opportunity to gain research experience — it is a chance to follow your curiosity, explore something new and take ownership of an academic project from start to finish.
If you have an idea you are passionate about, the URSS could be the opportunity to turn that idea into a research project.
The scheme is open to all undergraduate students in all faculties, including first and final year students. The scheme is not open to exchange students.
Applications for the URSS 2027 will open on Monday 5 October and will close on Friday 5 February 2027. Please note that we cannot accept late applications.
Key dates
- URSS 2026 Showcase: Wednesday 11 November 2026, 12-4pm, Panorama Suite, Rootes Building
- URSS 2027 student application opens: 5 October 2026
- URSS 2027 student application closing deadline: Friday 5 February 2027
Digital Showcase
Enhance your degree performance
Students who have participated in the URSS were more likely to be awarded a higher degree classification.
70% of URSS participants were awarded a first-class degree, compared to 35% of students overall, in academic years 19/20 to 21/22 (inclusive).
Skills development
The URSS allows you to:
- Discover research and expand your network
- Develop your transferable skills and enhance your CV
- Build your self-confidence
- Have an international experience
- Present and publish your research
- Gain points towards the Warwick Award
Student Stories
'My URSS experience'
Information for staff
Reviewers and supervisors