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Student Membership Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a Student Member of SPE?
To become a student member, visit our Join page and select the Student Membership option.
How can I check my SPE membership?
Log into your SPE Profile to manage your membership, update your contact details, print your membership card or certificate, and keep your education record current.
How much is Student Membership?
Student members pay USD 15, but can join for free by selecting the Sponsorship Program.
Graduating students who maintain continuous membership receive their first year of Professional membership free.
What are the requirements for becoming a student member?
As an industry-focused society, SPE requires Student Members to meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Must be enrolled in a university and carry at least 30% of a normal full-time academic load.
- Must have an academic concentration in petroleum or a related field.
- And at least one of the following:
- Be pursuing the equivalent of a bachelors or graduate degree.
- Attend a university with an established SPE student chapter.
If your university does not have an SPE Student Chapter, email your official university transcript or proof of enrollment to service@spe.org.
For questions regarding your eligibility, please contact service@spe.org.
What benefits are available for Student Members?
Benefits include networking, skill-building opportunities, discounted resources, scholarships, and a worldwide professional network. Visit our Student page or our Member Resource Center for details.
I am from a Sanctioned country. Can I still be an SPE member?
We welcome members from around the world, including sanctioned countries. However, due to U.S. and EU sanction laws, access to certain SPE programs and resources may be limited.
How do I get my SPE Membership Card?
Log into your SPE Profile to print your membership card or certificate, manage your membership, update your contact details, and keep your education record current.
How long is my membership valid?
Membership in SPE is based on the calendar year and must be renewed by 31 December to remain active.
How do I transisiton from a Student to Professional Member?
Ready for the next step in your SPE journey? Update your graduation date on your SPE to access new benefits and opportunities as a Professional member, your first year is free! Check the Student Graduation page for more details.
Can I still be a member if my university doesn't have a Student Chapter?
Yes! You can join SPE as an Individual Student Member even without a Chapter at your university. You’ll have access to all student programs except PetroBowl, which requires a Chapter team.
What programs can I be involved in as a Student Member?
Even though some SPE programs are reserved for Professional Members, there’s a wide range of ways for Student Members to get involved. You can volunteer at events, take part in PetroBowl and the Student Paper Contest, request an Ambassador Lecturer to visit your university, and help organize activities as part of your Student Chapter Committee.
How do I find my Student Chapter?
Search for your Student Chapter here. You can also see your chapter assignment by accessing your SPE Profile.
How do I establish a Student Chapter?
Eligible universities can apply to start an SPE Student Chapter. Applications are reviewed three times per year, and Chapters that don’t maintain the requirements may be disestablished.
How do I add/update Officers for my Chapter?
Roster changes can be made by any current officer or by officers who have held a position within the past three months. Use the Maintain Officer Roster link found in the Chapter Operations Manual to make updates.
How do I contact my supporting Section?
Your Chapter Committee is your first point of contact with your supporting Section. You can also use the Membership Directory to find and reach out to Section Committee members directly.
How do I participate in the Student Paper Contest?
The Student Paper Contest begins with Regional Contests worldwide, with winners advancing to the international round at ATCE. All eligible SPE Student Members may participate by submitting an abstract of their own original work. Only single-author papers are accepted. View upcoming contests.
How do I participate in PetroBowl®?
All qualified SPE Chapters may join PetroBowl® by entering a Regional Qualifier. Teams include two to five eligible Student Members. Rules and procedures may differ by region under the guidance of Regional Directors.
How can I connect with other SPE Members?
Network locally through Chapter and Section events, or connect globally with SPE members via SPE Connect, our online forum for sharing insights, asking questions, and messaging peers. Use the Membership Directory to find and connect with individual members.
How do I register for SPE certification?
To register for SPE Certification, you must be a Professional Member in good standing, hold an undergraduate degree in petroleum engineering or related science, and have at least four years of engineering experience. Student Members are not eligible.
Can SPE help me find a job?
SPE helps members expand their knowledge, build networks, and develop career-enhancing skills, but does not arrange employment opportunities or internships.
SPE is working with SMARTJOBBOARD to provide a FREE tool for members and employers that is dedicated to positions in the oil and gas and related industries.
Does SPE offer Scholarships or Fellowships?
SPE provides a limited number of scholarships and fellowships to support undergraduate and graduate Student Members pursuing oil and gas–related degrees. The application deadline for most SPE International awards is 12 p.m. (midday) on 15 April (Central USA, UTC-5), with announcements made by 1 August for the following academic year.
Nominations for the Nico van Wingen Fellowship close on 15 October, and nominee information must be submitted by 1 November.