The CERN Short Term Internship 2026 in Switzerland presents an extraordinary opportunity for ambitious undergraduate and master’s students who are eager to gain practical experience in one of the world’s most advanced scientific environments.
Organized by the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), this prestigious internship program allows students from across the globe to participate directly in groundbreaking scientific and technological projects. CERN is internationally recognized for pushing the boundaries of human knowledge, particularly in physics, engineering, and information technology.
Through its short-term internship program, students are not only exposed to cutting-edge research but are also actively involved in solving real-world scientific challenges. As a result, participants gain invaluable skills, professional confidence, and global exposure that significantly enhance future academic and career prospects.
Overview of the CERN Short Term Internship Program
The CERN Short Term Internship is designed for students who are currently enrolled in higher education and whose academic programs require or recommend industrial or research training. Unlike theoretical academic exercises, this internship emphasizes hands-on learning, collaboration, and direct contribution to CERN’s mission of understanding the fundamental structure of the universe.
Internships may last up to six months, during which participants are integrated into CERN teams working on active projects. These projects span a wide range of disciplines, including physics, engineering, computing, data science, electronics, and applied mathematics. Consequently, the program attracts students with diverse academic backgrounds who share a passion for innovation and discovery.
Importantly, the internship is open throughout the year, meaning applications are accepted on a rolling basis. This flexible structure allows students to apply at a time that best aligns with their academic calendars.
CERN Short Term Internship 2026
To better understand the scope of this opportunity, the essential program details are outlined below:
- Host Country: Switzerland (Geneva region, with activities also extending into France)
- Host Organization: CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research)
- Internship Duration: Up to 6 months
- Eligibility: Open to international students
- Application Deadline: Applications accepted year-round
Because CERN operates as a multinational research center, interns become part of a highly diverse and international working environment. This exposure is considered one of the program’s most valuable aspects.
Benefits of the CERN Short Term Internship 2026
One of the most compelling aspects of the CERN Short Term Internship is the comprehensive support offered to selected candidates. While the experience itself is invaluable, financial and professional benefits are also provided to ensure interns can focus fully on their work.
Monthly Financial Support
Interns are provided with a monthly stipend of 1,516 Swiss francs, which is intended to help cover living expenses in and around Geneva. Although Switzerland is known for its high cost of living, this allowance significantly reduces financial pressure during the internship period.
Insurance Coverage
Medical expenses, accidents, and disability coverage are provided for the duration of the internship. This coverage applies during the intern’s stay in both Switzerland and France, ensuring peace of mind and personal security throughout the program.
Professional Certification
At the end of the internship, participants are granted a CERN Traineeship Agreement. This official document serves as formal recognition of the training completed and is highly regarded by universities, research institutions, and employers worldwide.
Access to Advanced Facilities and Expertise
Interns are granted access to CERN’s world-class laboratories, research infrastructure, and technological resources. Additionally, close mentorship is provided by experienced scientists, engineers, and researchers, allowing interns to learn directly from leaders in their respective fields.
Fields and Specializations Available at CERN
The CERN Short Term Internship supports a wide variety of academic disciplines. While CERN is best known for particle physics, its operations rely on expertise from numerous scientific and technical domains.
Common areas of specialization include:
- Experimental and theoretical physics
- Mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering
- Computer science and software development
- Data science and artificial intelligence
- Electronics and instrumentation
- Applied mathematics
- Information and communication technologies
As a result, students from both science-focused and engineering-oriented backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Each internship placement is carefully matched to the student’s academic profile and interests.
Eligibility Criteria for the CERN Short Term Internship 2026
To ensure that participants benefit fully from the program and that internship placements align with academic objectives, specific eligibility requirements have been established.
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
First, candidates must be full-time undergraduate students at the time of application. In some cases, students in integrated master’s programs may also be considered, depending on institutional requirements.
Second, applicants must be at least 18 years old when submitting their application. This requirement is strictly enforced.
Third, the internship must be an obligatory or recommended component of the applicant’s academic program. This ensures that the internship aligns with educational objectives and institutional approval.
In addition, applicants must confirm that they will return to their educational institution after completing their stay at CERN. The internship is intended to complement academic studies, not replace them.
Finally, proficiency in English and/or French is required. Since CERN operates in a multilingual environment, effective communication is essential for successful collaboration.
Supporting Documents Required for the CERN Internship
A complete application package is essential for consideration. Applicants are advised to prepare all required documents carefully before submission.
The following documents are typically required:
- A clear and professional CV, written in English or French
- A reference letter issued by the applicant’s current educational institution
- Proof of enrollment in an undergraduate program
It should be noted that documents must be accurate, up to date, and well-structured. Incomplete or poorly prepared applications may be disadvantaged during the selection process.
Application Deadline and Selection Timeline
One of the unique features of the CERN Short Term Internship is the absence of a fixed application deadline. Instead, applications are accepted throughout the year.
This rolling application system allows flexibility; however, it also means that competition remains continuous. Therefore, early application is strongly recommended, particularly for students seeking internships during peak academic periods.
Selection decisions are made based on academic background, relevance of skills, motivation, and alignment with available projects. Due to the program’s popularity, only a limited number of applicants are selected at any given time.
How to Apply for the CERN Short Term Internship 2026
Applying for the CERN Short Term Internship involves several structured steps, all of which are completed online.
Step 1: Visit the Official CERN Website
Applicants must begin by visiting the official CERN careers or internship webpage, where current internship opportunities are listed.
Step 2: Review Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, the eligibility criteria should be carefully reviewed to ensure all conditions are met. This step is essential to avoid disqualification.
Step 3: Identify a Suitable Internship Opportunity
Applicants should search for internship opportunities that align with their academic background, technical skills, and career interests.
Step 4: Create an Online Account
An account must be created on the CERN application portal. This account will be used to manage the application and track its status.
Step 5: Complete the Application Form
The online application form must be completed in full. Required documents, such as the CV and reference letter, must be uploaded as instructed.
Step 6: Submit the Application
Once all information has been reviewed for accuracy, the application can be submitted. Confirmation of submission is usually provided electronically.
Why Choose the CERN Short Term Internship?
The CERN Short Term Internship is widely regarded as a career-defining experience. Few institutions offer the same combination of scientific excellence, international collaboration, and real-world impact.
Interns not only gain technical skills but also develop problem-solving abilities, teamwork experience, and professional discipline. Moreover, the prestige associated with CERN enhances future applications for graduate studies, research positions, and industry roles.
Because participants work on projects that contribute directly to global scientific advancement, the internship is often described as both intellectually rewarding and personally transformative.
MORE RELATED CONTENT:
UNESCO Internship Program 2026 (Apply Now)
KTH Scholarship 2026 in Sweden (Study in Europe)
Austrian Development Cooperation Scholarships 2026 in Austria (Fully Funded)
TechGirls Exchange Program 2026 in the USA (Fully Funded)
