Summer scholarships provide an opportunity for undergraduate students to apply their learning in a practical way and develop their research skills in addition to their studies. However, undertaking the supervision of a student researcher can be a challenging task and it is important to consider a variety of factors to ensure that potential for development is optimised. This article outlines some key benefits for students in undertaking a summer scholarship and highlights the potential value of these programs. It also offers guidance on aspects of the scholarship planning and supervision that should be taken into consideration throughout the process. A summer scholarship can be an invaluable experience for a student and it is important to consider the benefits of these programs and approaches to ensure their success.