Fund Your Journey to ABRCMS in 3 Steps
Learn how to advocate for yourself, secure support, and bring your research to ABRCMS.
You have the power to move your research forward — this guide will show you how to secure funding to get ABRCMS.
Whether you’re planning a research and academic journey or focusing on your future career path, ABRCMS is the premier launching pad for what comes next. Presenting your research, exploring the Career and Recruitment Hall, and networking with peers and mentors open up opportunities to help you get where you want to go.
We welcome thousands of students every year, but shifts in academic and scientific funding mean demand for ABRCMS travel awards is higher than ever. In response, we aim to empower students and attendees to advocate for their research and secure funding to present and/or attend.
In this guide, we cover the fundamentals of budgeting and securing funds to attend ABRCMS.
Scroll down to see our step-by-step tips for funding your trip!
ABRCMS 2026 Abstract Timeline
- April 15: Abstract Submission Site Opens
- Sept. 11: Abstract Deadline
- Oct. 2: Notifications Sent
- Oct. 5: Accept/Withdraw Invitation to Present
- Nov. 2: Deadline for Student Presenters to Pay for Registration
Step 1
Create a Budget
Creating a budget will allow you to see how much money you should ask for. Review the chart for the set costs to attend ABRCMS 2026. Use this to calculate your cost needs and determine what you will ask for in your request letter.
Estimated Costs |
|---|
RegistrationOne Day: $200Non-student: $700 Graduate Student or Postdoctoral Scientists: $625 Undergraduate or Postbaccalaureate Student: $595 |
HousingSecure your housing through the ABRCMS Housing Portal to receive discounted hotel rates. To take full advantage of ABRCMS, we recommend booking Wednesday, Nov. 18 through Sunday, Nov. 22. Estimate: $250/night |
TravelTravel expenses depend on where you are traveling from. To estimate how much this will cost you, we recommend doing a quick search on how much round-trip tickets from your area in November cost.Estimate:$500 |
MealsIncluded in the cost of your ABRCMS registration are the following meals:
Estimate: $200 |
Miscellaneous CostsAdditional costs may include transportation to and from the airport, snacks, or emergency purchases. Estimate: $150 |
TotalApproximately $2,500 |
Money Saving Tips
Step 2
Draft a Request
Create a letter/email asking for funds to participate in ABRCMS. Your letter should be professional,
What to Include in Your Letter
Subject: Request for Support to Attend ABRCMS 2026
Dear [Department Chair/Dean/Program Director/Scholarship Committee],
I am requesting support to attend ABRCMS 2026 being held in Seattle, Washington from November 18-21. ABRCMS is the American Society for Microbiology's (ASM) conference in support of multidisciplinary science and workforce development. It provides students with opportunities to present their work, engage with leading researchers, participate in professional development sessions, and explore graduate programs and career pathways.
I am interested in attending ABRCMS [State why you are interested in attending ABRCMS. Are you presenting your research? Are there exhibitors whose graduate school you wish to attend? Are there mentoring opportunities you would like to take advantage of? Do you see sessions that you would like to attend? How will attending ABRCMS affect your future goals?]
To make this opportunity possible, I am requesting funding to help offset the following costs:
- Conference registration: $[Amount]
- Travel (airfare/ground transportation): $[Amount]
- Housing: $[Amount]
- Meals and incidentals: $[Amount]
- Total estimated cost: $[Amount]
Any level of support would be greatly appreciated. If you know of other resources to reach out, please let me know. Thank you for considering my request.
Regards,
[Student Name]
[Major/Program]
[Email Address]
Step 3
Brainstorm Where to Send Request
Once you have a solid request letter drafted, determine where you'd like to send your request.