Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are international students eligible?

    • Yes, the challenge is open to all graduate students worldwide!

  • What if I recently graduated?

    • We acknowledge that the academic calendar is different around the world, so as long as you will still be enrolled in studies in December 2025, we invite you to apply.

  • Are undergraduate students eligible?

    • No, this challenge is open for graduate students only at this time.

  • 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!

  • 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 22nd of March 2026 and ending on Friday the 27th.

  • 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.