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CERN OPENLAB Summer Program 2026 in Switzerland | Fully Funded

Switzerland

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Jan 26, 2026
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Program Summary
Country
Switzerland
Host
CERN
Duration
June-August 2026 (9 weeks)
Financial Benefits
Fully Funded

CERN OPENLAB Summer Program 2026 applications are now officially open, offering an exciting opportunity for global students to gain hands-on experience at one of the world’s leading research centers. This fully funded summer program welcomes applicants from all nationalities, with no citizenship restrictions. Eligible candidates include Bachelor’s and Master’s students, as well as those graduating by May 2026. The program runs for 9 weeks starting in June 2026, and the best part—there is no application fee and no IELTS requirement.

The CERN OPENLAB Summer Program 2026 is designed specifically for IT and computer science–related students who want to explore cutting-edge technologies in a world-class research environment. Participants will engage in real CERN projects, collaborate with top experts, and develop valuable technical skills. If you’re searching for additional fully funded internships or summer opportunities in Switzerland, you can browse similar options using the Switzerland Filter on our site. More details about the program are provided below.

Benefits of CERN OPENLAB Summer Program 2026

The program covers:

  • Daily stipend: 93 CHF/day for accommodation and meals.
  • Travel allowance: Round-trip airfare, Reimbursement for travel to Geneva.
  • Health insurance: Comprehensive coverage.
  • Accommodation assistance: Help finding housing on or near the CERN site.

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Eligibility Criteria for the CERN OPENLAB Summer Program 2026

To be eligible for the CERN OPENLAB Summer Student Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Candidates of all nationalities are welcome to apply for this program.
  • You must be enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program with a strong computing profile.
  • An applicant must have completed at least three years of full-time university-level studies by Summer 2026.
  • Students graduating in the Summer of 2026 (May) are also eligible to apply.
  • You must remain enrolled as a student during your CERN internship.
  • Applicants should not have previously worked at CERN.

Required Documents

  • CV
  • Most recent Academic transcript
  • Reference letter (at least 1), preferably 2.
  • Be as specific as possible in the application fields “Education” and “Experience”.

How to apply for the CERN OPENLAB Summer Program 2026

  • Review the eligibility criteria carefully to make sure you qualify.
  • Gather all required documents:
  • Click the “Apply” button on the program page and create your account (if you don’t already have one).
  • Fill in the online application form: provide your personal details, university information, and a brief statement of your motivation.
  • Upload your CV, reference letter, transcript, and any extra materials.
  • Double-check that all information is correct, all uploads are complete, and your documents are in English or French.
  • Submit your application before the deadline: 26 January 2026 at 23:59 Geneva time.
  • After submitting, keep an eye on your inbox for any confirmation email or further instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

CERN OPENLAB Summer Program 2026 offers a nine-week hands-on computing placement at CERN for undergraduates or master’s students in computing/engineering/math/physics. Participants get a stipend, project work, lectures, visits and full on-site immersion in Geneva.

What is the CERN OPENLAB Summer Student Program 2026?

CERN OPENLAB Summer Student Program 2026 is a nine-week summer placement for bachelor’s or master’s students in computing, engineering, mathematics or physics. You’ll work on an advanced project, attend lectures and visit unique facilities at CERN.

Who is eligible to apply for the CERN OPENLAB Summer Student Program 2026?

You must be a bachelor’s or master’s student (not PhD), in computing, engineering, mathematics or physics, have completed at least three years of full-time university study by June 2026 and remain registered as a student while at CERN.

What is the duration and start date for this program?

CERN OPENLAB Summer Student Program 2026 program is lasts for exactly nine weeks. The start dates available for the 2026 edition begin on June 22 or June 29. Contracts start on a Monday and end on a Friday reflecting the full nine-week span.

What sorts of work will I be doing as a participant?

You’ll contribute to a technical or scientific computing project within a team, attend specialized lectures, participate in workshops and facility visits, and finally submit a report and give a short presentation of your work.

What documentation is required for the application?

You must submit your CV, most recent academic transcript, and at least one or two recommendation letters (dated within the past 12 months). Motivation letter is strongly recommended and all must be in English (or French for transcripts) if possible.

What is the subsistence allowance and travel support provided?

Students receive a net allowance of 93 Swiss Francs per calendar day for the duration of the program. A lump-sum travel allowance from your place of residence to Geneva is paid after your stay. Health insurance coverage is also included.

Can students of any nationality apply?

Yes, the program is open to applicants of all nationalities, including those from non-Member States of CERN. The only eligibility criteria relate to academic standing and field of study.

Where must participants work and are remote arrangements allowed?

Participants are expected to be on-site at CERN for the full duration of the placement during standard working hours. Teleworking is not permitted under this program.

What if my transcripts are not in English or French?

You may submit original transcripts in other languages if necessary; however, a version in English or French is preferred. If translation is required, organizer will contact you.

When will I receive a decision if I apply for 2026?

Applicants will receive a reply by late March or early April 2026. Invitation letters for visa purposes (if needed) will be sent around May. You may use the acceptance letter to begin visa procedures.


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This is Tanvir Ahammed Shovo. I am a content contributor at Scholarship Union, where I collect and publish information about global scholarships, fellowships, conferences, and various international opportunities for students. I hold a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Accounting. With a strong interest in education, research, and international opportunities, I focus on collecting verified information from official sources and presenting it in a clear and simple way so that students from around the world can easily access the information they need. My goal is to inform students about fully funded scholarships, academic programs, and professional opportunities that can support their educational and career development. Through my work at Scholarship Union, I aim to make information about international education and scholarships more accessible and to help students stay informed about academic opportunities around the world.

Joined Oct 9, 2025
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