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VIDHAI RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP

OVERVIEW

The Vidhai Research Fellowship is a selective, mentor-guided program designed for middle and high school students interested in academic research. Fellows develop original research projects, receive guidance from experienced mentors, and produce a final paper prepared for potential publication.

The program runs on a quarterly cohort system (Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring), allowing students multiple opportunities throughout the year to participate.

This program is completely free of cost, ensuring accessibility for all students regardless of financial background.

WHAT FELLOWS WILL DO

  • Develop a focused research question

  • Conduct a structured literature review using credible, peer-reviewed sources

  • Design a research methodology or theoretical framework

  • Write and revise a formal research paper

  • Present their work at the end-of-program Research Showcase

MENTORSHIP

Each cohort consists of 5–10 selected fellows working closely with mentors in a small-group setting.

Mentors provide guidance on:

  • Research topic refinement

  • Source evaluation

  • Writing and structure

  • Feedback and revisions

PROGRAM STRUCTURE

Each cohort runs for approximately 6–8 weeks and includes:

  • Weekly cohort meetings

  • Optional office hours for additional support

  • Independent research and writing time

CURRENT COHORT - SUMMER 2026

  • Start Date: June 26, 2026 (Fellowship Orientation & Research Launch)

  • End Date: August 2, 2026

  • Weekly Meetings: Sundays

Future cohorts will be offered quarterly.

DELIVERABLES

By the end of the fellowship, students will complete:

  • A final research paper

  • An annotated bibliography

  • A presentation for the Research Showcase

RECOGNITION & BENEFITS

  • Official Vidhai Research Fellow Certificate

  • Verified volunteer hours for all time committed

  • Eligibility for Vidhai volunteer awards based on hours

  • Guidance on submitting work to youth journals or publication platforms

Top fellows may be invited to serve as future mentors.

ELIGIBILITY

  • Open to middle and high school students

  • No prior research experience required

  • Must be able to commit to weekly meetings and independent work

SELECTION PROCESS

Due to limited capacity (5–10 fellows per cohort), the program is selective. Applicants will be evaluated based on:

  • Interest in research

  • Thoughtfulness of responses

  • Commitment to completing the program

COST

Free of cost.
Vidhai is committed to making high-quality research opportunities accessible to all students.

APPLY

Applications are now open for the Summer 2026 cohort.

Applications close April 14, 2026 (11:59 PM PST)

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