Students can make their research dreams come true with a grant from the Undergraduate Special Opportunities in Artistry and Research Program.

The program, which has started accepting applications for this year’s projects, is the oldest research program on campus and is completely student oriented. The program funds student-based research projects that take place around the world.

The spring deadline to submit applications is Feb. 7.

The organization provides funds for up to $2,500 worth of research materials, which covers everything from paper to travel expenses. The funds cannot go toward compensation to the student or those involved in the project.

The program is open to all schools and areas of study on campus; past projects have involved anthropology, speech-language pathology and public health.

“Good research is research that adds to the field,” said Lauren Boddy, Office of Student Engagement and Experiential Learning staff member.

While proposals of all types are encouraged, the program is looking for topics and projects that “haven’t been done before,” Boddy said. Students interested in applying to be a part of the program for 2014 can visit www.oseel.niu.edu/usoar to see proposal guidelines.

Applicants will need to draft a proposal and find a faculty adviser for their project.

If selected for funding, the student will have to complete a final report at the end of the project. The funding has funding for 20 projects that will run until Dec. 31.

“I want to study abroad and go to grad school, so I needed to be able to put this on my curriculum vitae,” said senior political science major Dennis Bridge, who intends to apply for a grant.