CERN Short-Term Internship Programme

European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) — Geneva

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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

Nationals of a CERN Member or Associate Member State only (the page states that nationals of Pakistan, Lithuania, Latvia, Cyprus, Croatia and Turkey cannot currently be considered). Pursuing a technical or administrative diploma, a bachelor's or a master's degree. Bangladeshi nationals are not eligible.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Designed for undergraduate students who need practical industry or laboratory experience of 1 to 6 months as part of their degree curriculum, the CERN Short-Term Internship Programme offers year-round placements in applied physics, electrical/mechanical engineering, IT, materials science, finance, human resources, and science communications. Unlike the summer program, candidates can apply at any time of year for flexible start dates.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Nationals of a CERN Member or Associate Member State only (the page states that nationals of Pakistan, Lithuania, Latvia, Cyprus, Croatia and Turkey cannot currently be considered). Pursuing a technical or administrative diploma, a bachelor's or a master's degree. Bangladeshi nationals are not eligible.
2. Note the deadline. Rolling (the page refers to a deadline per call but states no dates - apply with your CV in English or French through the online application) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Curriculum Vitae: Clear summary of technical, laboratory, or administrative coursework and software proficiency.; Proof of Enrollment: Official university certificate confirming active full-time student status and institutional internship recognition.; Academic Transcripts: Latest university grade sheets.; Motivation Statement: Brief statement specifying availability dates (1–6 months) and target CERN department..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Continuous Rolling CV Screening by CERN Departmental Supervisors → Direct Video Interview with Host Team Leader → Offer Issuance.

Profile of past winners

Undergraduate engineering and applied science students who have flexible semester schedules (e.g., mandatory industrial training semesters) and specify exact start/end dates in their application.

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. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.

Quick answers

Who can apply for CERN Short-Term Internship Programme?

Nationals of a CERN Member or Associate Member State only (the page states that nationals of Pakistan, Lithuania, Latvia, Cyprus, Croatia and Turkey cannot currently be considered). Pursuing a technical or administrative diploma, a bachelor's or a master's degree. Bangladeshi nationals are not eligible.

What does CERN Short-Term Internship Programme cover?

Monthly net allowance of CHF 1,593 for an internship of 1 to 6 months working on operations at CERN

When is the deadline for CERN Short-Term Internship Programme?

Rolling (the page refers to a deadline per call but states no dates - apply with your CV in English or French through the online application) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with CERN Short-Term Internship Programme?

Host countries: Switzerland.

What documents do I need for CERN Short-Term Internship Programme?

Curriculum Vitae: Clear summary of technical, laboratory, or administrative coursework and software proficiency.; Proof of Enrollment: Official university certificate confirming active full-time student status and institutional internship recognition.; Academic Transcripts: Latest university grade sheets.; Motivation Statement: Brief statement specifying availability dates (1–6 months) and target CERN department..

How are applicants selected for CERN Short-Term Internship Programme?

Continuous Rolling CV Screening by CERN Departmental Supervisors → Direct Video Interview with Host Team Leader → Offer Issuance.

How much work is the CERN Short-Term Internship Programme application?

Medium: Rolling Online Application + CV + Proof of University Enrollment + Motivation Summary