I applied through college or university. The process took 1 day. I interviewed at UC Riverside (Riverside, CA) in Apr 2011
Interview
Very basic interview in front of two PIs. General behavioral questions and light technical questions. Mostly concerned with future plans and interest in research, little or no experience was required. You have the best chance if you are a good grad school applicant already.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What most interests you in solar research and do you see yourself continuing in solar research in grad school?