USEQIP frequently asked questions

When does the 2024 Undergraduate School on Experimental Quantum Information Processing (USEQIP) take place?

The two-week program will run June 3 – 14 at the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) at the University of Waterloo in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. All who visit the University of Waterloo campus must follow the university's COVID-19 safety protocols.

When are applications due?

Applicants must submit their completed application, including listing references, by Tuesday, January 2, 2024. Referees have until Monday, January 8, 2024 to submit their reference material. Late applications will not be considered.

I learned about USEQIP after the deadline. Can I still apply?

Unfortunately no. We need the applications in by the specified date because of our selection process.

When will I hear if I have been accepted or not?

We will email the results by Friday, January 26, 2024. We will contact all applicants to let them know if their application was successful or not.

Are there any prerequisite courses for USEQIP?

No, there are no prerequisites required to attend USEQIP. However, you may find it helpful if you’ve taken Quantum Mechanics courses.

Can I log in and change information on my application?

No. Once your application is submitted you cannot change it. Be sure to review your application before you submit.

What is required for the application?

  • Curriculum vitae
  • Cover letter
  • Unofficial transcript
  • One reference
  • List of scientific publications

Who should I address my cover letter to?

Address your cover letter to the USEQIP Committee.

I am applying to USEQIP and for a URA; do I submit two separate applications?

No, to apply for USEQIP and a URA only use the USEQIP application.

I am applying to USEQIP and for a URA; do I submit two cover letters?

No, submit one cover letter that addresses your interest in USEQIP and obtaining a URA.

It is going to take a while for my school to get me my transcript. What should I do?

You are only required to submit your unofficial transcript, which you should have access to. Be sure to upload your most recent unofficial transcript, you will not be able to change it after you submit your application.

My unofficial transcript does not have my grades from last term. Is that a problem?

We understand that some institutes take longer to submit grades. We will accept unofficial transcripts that are missing grades from the last term. Once you have submitted your application you cannot upload a different transcript, so be sure that you are attaching the most complete transcript you have access to.

When will you contact my references?

We will contact your references once you have submitted your application. You cannot change your references once you have submitted your application, so choose your references wisely.

Can international students attend USEQIP?

Yes. USEQIP is open to international students.

Are travel bursaries available to USEQIP participants?

Yes, you can indicate on your USEQIP application if you would like to apply for a travel bursary. Travel bursaries are for participants to travel from their home institute to Waterloo. Bursaries are awarded up to a maximum of $1,500 CAD.

I am in graduate school. Can I still apply to USEQIP?

Unfortunately no. USEQIP is aimed at undergraduate students. If you are a student in an integrated undergraduate and master’s degree program you are eligible to apply. Other graduate students are encouraged to look at our Quantum Key Distribution Summer School, which is offered every other year.