It would be interesting to hear candidates for REU programs experiences in applying and their results. By all accounts, these positions are very competitive, but that is relative. What seem to be their determining factors for admission to these programs? Is it grades and courses? Other research experience? Background and personal goals?
I applied to around five or 6 places and got accepted into one (physics REU). You really just have to get lucky.
I’m a rising Junior with no prior research experience. Maybe they looked at the fact that I couldn’t get any research at my current university. Of course, other programs would prefer those who have some.
I’m sure my course selection might have helped, but it could also be standard for many people who apply to the program: I’ve taken Calc 1-3, linear algebra, ODE, complex analysis, Physics I and II w/ Calc, Intro to Mechanics, and a year of programming. Also a year of bio and chem.
I had two good recommendations from professors related to my major. I’ve heard that some places don’t look at your personal statement and just rely on the recommendations. However, I still tried to make my personal statement for that REU tailored to the program and my project of interest, and I highlighted my career goals and circumstances (I want to be the first in my family to get a PhD, for example).
Some programs look at minority status as well.
Advice I have: just to apply to a lot of them. I called one program up and they said they had something like 300 applicants for 12 spaces or so. I don’t think REUs are really guaranteed for anyone.