What is the CERN Summer Student Programme?
Did you know that CERN, the place where the World Wide Web was invented and the Higgs boson discovered, offers students a chance to work on their cutting-edge experiments? The CERN Summer Student Programme 2026 in Switzerland is a highly respected, fully paid internship chance made for bachelor’s and master’s students who study physics, engineering, computer science, mathematics, as well as related subjects.
This program runs for about eight to thirteen weeks during the European summer. It gives students the chance to work on technical and scientific projects. They work under the direction of expert guides at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, found in Geneva.
This internship lets participants get real-world experience with modern scientific tools, such as particle accelerators and detectors. This work deepens their grasp of basic particles and nature’s rules.
The program promotes a setting where many cultures meet. Students from all countries work together, making their job skills better, growing their network of contacts, and increasing their belief in themselves inside a special high-tech research place.
What Financial Support plus Benefits Do I Get?
The CERN Summer Student Programme offers substantial financial help, making it possible for students from across the globe to attend.
What the program provides:
- A daily money amount of about 90–93 CHF (Swiss Francs).
- Money to cover travel expenses.
- Full health insurance coverage.
- Help finding a place to stay.
Who Qualifies for This Internship?
The program welcomes applicants from all countries, including those outside the CERN member states. However, you must meet strict academic and application criteria:
Requirements to take part:
- You must be a student working toward a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
- You must complete at least three years of full-time university studies by the summer of 2026.
- You must not have taken part in a prior CERN summer student program.
- You must speak English well (speaking French is helpful but not required).
Important Note – Students from the USA, Japan, in addition to Canada must use their national program websites to send in their applications.
What are the Key Dates, also Application Timeline?
You need to pay close attention to the schedule to ensure your application gets submitted on time.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Switzerland |
| Host City | Geneva |
| Host Organization | CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research) |
| Duration | About 8 to 13 weeks (usually 9 weeks) |
| Start Dates | 22 June or 29 June 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 26 January 2026 (23:59 CET) |
What Fields of Study are Accepted?
CERN looks for students with strong backgrounds in science and technology. The primary fields of study accepted include:
- Physics
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Other related subjects
How Do I Apply for the CERN Summer Internship?
The application process happens entirely online through CERN’s official site. You must prepare several documents well before the deadline.
Required Application Documents:
- Your Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Your academic transcripts (records of your grades).
- A letter explaining your motivation (why you want the internship).
- Two letters of reference from people who know your work.
Candidates should prepare all their documents in English or French. You must ensure you fill out all parts of the online application with care and submit – it before the deadline. Keep in mind that you cannot change applications after you send them in.
During the internship, students attend a wide-ranging physics lecture program as well as IT lectures set up by CERN openlab. This arrangement gives them both book knowledge and practical work experience.
The CERN Summer Student Programme is a tough and enriching time that greatly improves academic records and opens job paths in science and technology across the world.
FAQ
Do I need to speak French to apply?
No, good English ability is enough. While speaking French is a plus, it is not required for the program.
How long does the program usually last?
The program duration is generally between 8 and 13 weeks. Most participants spend about nine weeks working at CERN.
If I am not from a CERN Member State, do I still qualify?
Yes. Applicants from all countries, including non-CERN member states, are welcome to apply, except for students from the USA, Japan, next to Canada, who must use specific national application channels.
CERN Internship Deadline:
- The application deadline for the CERN summer student program 2022 in Switzerland is 26 January 2026.
