Aalto Science Institute (AScI) International Summer Research Programme

Aalto University, Finland

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Students from universities worldwide. Apply with one PDF containing a motivation letter, CV, official transcript, a recommendation letter from a professor and proof of English, and choose one to three projects.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The Aalto Science Institute (AScI) International Summer Research Programme hires 50+ top international Bachelor’s and Master’s students each summer as salaried research assistants for 12 weeks at Aalto University’s Otaniemi campus near Helsinki. Participants work side-by-side with professors and postdoctoral researchers across dozens of pre-defined projects in machine learning, quantum technology, nanoscience, biomaterials, communications engineering, and applied mathematics.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Students from universities worldwide. Apply with one PDF containing a motivation letter, CV, official transcript, a recommendation letter from a professor and proof of English, and choose one to three projects.
2. Note the deadline. Jan (annual; the 2027 call is open 7 - 31 Jan 2027 and closes on 31 Jan at 23:59) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Project-Specific Motivation Letter: Tailored statement explaining why you are the ideal candidate for your 1 to 3 selected AScI research projects (listed by exact project title and host department).; Official University Transcript: Complete grade record plus list of courses currently in progress during the spring semester.; Curriculum Vitae: Detailed technical CV highlighting coding, mathematical modeling, or experimental chemistry/materials skills.; One Academic Reference Letter: Sent directly by a university professor or thesis supervisor to the AScI portal..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Departmental Screening of GPA & Technical Fit → Online Technical Interview with the Project’s Academic Supervisor (February) → Salaried Employment Offer in March.

Profile of past winners

Students who match their exact coursework, lab techniques, or coding repositories to one of the ~60 specific project descriptions posted on the AScI webpage each January.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

Tips from our advisors

1. Tailor your CV to the role: lead with the skills and projects the posting asks for.
2. Write a short, specific motivation statement. Name the team or project you want to join and why.
3. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
4. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
5. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
6. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Aalto Science Institute (AScI) International Summer Research Programme?

Students from universities worldwide. Apply with one PDF containing a motivation letter, CV, official transcript, a recommendation letter from a professor and proof of English, and choose one to three projects.

What does Aalto Science Institute (AScI) International Summer Research Programme cover?

A 12-week paid research internship in Finland (June to August) with a Get to Know Finland course; check the AScI FAQ for the current salary

When is the deadline for Aalto Science Institute (AScI) International Summer Research Programme?

Jan (annual; the 2027 call is open 7 - 31 Jan 2027 and closes on 31 Jan at 23:59) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Aalto Science Institute (AScI) International Summer Research Programme?

Host countries: Finland.

What documents do I need for Aalto Science Institute (AScI) International Summer Research Programme?

Project-Specific Motivation Letter: Tailored statement explaining why you are the ideal candidate for your 1 to 3 selected AScI research projects (listed by exact project title and host department).; Official University Transcript: Complete grade record plus list of courses currently in progress during the spring semester.; Curriculum Vitae: Detailed technical CV highlighting coding, mathematical modeling, or experimental chemistry/materials skills.; One Academic Reference Letter: Sent directly by a university professor or thesis supervisor to the AScI portal..

How are applicants selected for Aalto Science Institute (AScI) International Summer Research Programme?

Departmental Screening of GPA & Technical Fit → Online Technical Interview with the Project’s Academic Supervisor (February) → Salaried Employment Offer in March.

How much work is the Aalto Science Institute (AScI) International Summer Research Programme application?

Very High: Aalto Workday Portal Application + Motivation Letter for 1–3 Specific AScI Projects + Transcripts + CV + 1 Reference Letter