Research Excellence Program for Asia (RExPA) 2026
1. Program Overview
The Research Excellence Program for Asia (RExPA) 2026 is an exclusive 8-week summer research opportunity at Tel Aviv University (TAU), Israel. It brings together a hand-picked cohort of excellent research students from strategic partners across Asia.
2. About the program
Located in the heart of Israel's high-tech and business center, Tel Aviv University is Israel's largest institution of higher learning. Students will engage in a genuine research project in one of TAU's labs under the guidance of a distinguished professor, enjoy leadership sessions with TAU's management, and experience the vibrant cultural life of Tel Aviv.
3. Financial details
This is a highly subsidized program. The RExPA scholarship generously covers:
- 📚 Tuition Fees: Fully covered.
- 🏠 Accommodation: Fully covered for the duration of the 8-week program.
- Note: Students should be prepared to cover their own travel, visa, and daily living expenses unless otherwise specified.
4. Program Tracks
The program provides access to over 50 lab placement opportunities across two main tracks:
- STEM Track: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
- Humanities & Social Sciences Track: Including Arts and cultural studies.
5. Eligibility Criteria
- Degree Level: Undergraduate students in their pre-final or final year, OR graduate students enrolled in research-focused degrees.
- Academic Merit: A minimum GPA of 80% (equivalent to approx. 8.0/10 CGPA) is strictly required.
- Language: Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 79 / Cambridge B2 First) OR an official waiver from IITM.
- Nomination: Must be officially nominated by the IITM Office of Global Engagement.
6. Program Structure
The program runs for 8 weeks from June 3 to July 30, 2026. Students will be integrated into their host labs to complete a tailored research project. Selected nominees will also undergo an online interview prior to final acceptance.
7. Available Departments & Research Areas
With over 130 Research Institutes and 125 Schools & Departments, TAU offers 50+ specific lab placements ranging across all STEM fields, Humanities, and Social Sciences.
8. Application Processes and Deadline
📅 IITM Internal Nomination Deadline: April 20, 2026
IIT Madras can nominate a maximum of two (2) students. Interested students must apply internally through the Office of Global Engagement by February 21. The internal review committee will select the top 2 candidates, whose details will be sent to TAU by the end of February.
9. Required Notes
⚠️ Selection Process: Because spots are highly limited (only 2 for IITM), this program requires a formal internal review. Please ensure your CV highlights your research aptitude and academic excellence.
10. Selection Timeline
- IITM Internal Deadline: April 20, 2026
- Official Nomination to TAU: February 28, 2026
- Program Dates: June 3 – July 30, 2026
11. Program Benefits
- 🔬 Hands-on Research: Strengthen your research skills and significantly bolster your CV.
- 🤝 Leadership Exposure: Participate in exclusive leadership sessions with top TAU management.
- 🌍 Global Network: Serve as a pathway for future graduate/postgraduate studies globally.