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.
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?
Who is eligible to apply for the CERN OPENLAB Summer Student Program 2026?
What is the duration and start date for this program?
What sorts of work will I be doing as a participant?
What documentation is required for the application?
What is the subsistence allowance and travel support provided?
Can students of any nationality apply?
Where must participants work and are remote arrangements allowed?
What if my transcripts are not in English or French?
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