FAQ for incoming UROPs

1. If I'm interested in a UROP position at the Media Lab, what should I do?
2. How do UROPs get paid?
3. How much do UROPs get paid?
4. How do I fill out the UROP forms?
5. Who should I contact if I have any issues during my UROP?

1. If I'm interested in a UROP position at the Media Lab, what should I do?

   Look at the available postings and email the correct contact.  You can also email faculty or students directly to ask if there are any opportunities available. As a reminder, this opportunity is only available to MIT and Wellesley undergraduates.

2. How do UROPs get paid?

   It is the UROP's responsibility to enter their hours every week into the time sheet found in Atlas. They receive very specific instructions directly from MAS via email. During the fall and spring UROPs are eligible to work 20 hours a week. During IAP and summer UROPs are eligible to work 40 hours a week. UROPs will enter their hours into the Atlas timesheet AND then send an email (student-hours@media.mit.edu) cc'ing their faculty, direct supervisor, and group administrative assistant indicating the week ending date and hours worked. If you or your UROP have any questions about payroll, please come see MAS.

3. How much do UROPs get paid?

   Rates Effective Summer 2026:

   The UROP office pays $16/hour to direct-funded students.

   For sponsored funding:

   First Year students $16.25/hour

   Second Year students $16.25/hour

   Third Year students $16.50/hour

   Fourth Year students $16.50/hour

4. How do I fill out the UROP forms?

   Go to the UROP website and enter your proposal before the deadline.  MAS requires that you list a direct supervisor in addition to the faculty supervisor.  If your faculty supervisor has academic appointments in more than one department, make sure you choose Media Arts and Sciences.
   

   Credit UROPs: Make sure you sign up for MAS.URG or MAS.UR

   MAS Sponsored UROPs: Use 1234567 for the account number and MAS will assign the appropriate account number during departmental approval.
   

5. Who should I contact if I have any issues during my UROP?

   Please reach out to the following MAS contacts depending on the issue:

   - Payroll & general questions: Jonathan Richards (jdr0248@media.mit.edu)

   - Project & supervisor concerns: Meghan Jordan (mej710@media.mit.edu)