Max Planck Internship 2026 offers outstanding students from around the world the opportunity to engage in world-class research in computer science at renowned Max Planck Institutes. These include the Institutes for Informatics (Saarbruecken), Software Systems (Saarbruecken and Kaiserslautern), and Security and Privacy (Bochum). This fully funded program welcomes exceptional Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral students—as well as talented professionals from industry—who are eager to gain hands-on academic research experience. Interns work closely with experienced faculty mentors, with projects tailored to their academic background, skills, and interests.
Selected interns benefit from a comprehensive funding package covering living expenses, housing, and round-trip travel. Internships typically last 12–14 weeks, though longer stays are possible. While positions are available year-round, most applicants prefer the summer months, with a key application deadline on November 1 for placements starting between May and August. For internships outside this period, applications should be submitted at least five months in advance, with selections based on specific project needs.
Program Summary
- Country: Germany
- Host: Max Planck Institute
- Duration: 12 -14 Weeks
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 1 November 2025
Benefits
The Program Covers:
- Round Airfare Tickets.
- Monthly Stipend.
- Living Costs.
- Housing.
- Visa Cost.
Eligibility Criteria
- Internships are open to students worldwide.
- Bachelors, Masters, and Doctoral students with a basic background in Computer Science.
- Students looking for Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis projects are also welcome to apply.
- Enrolled students can also apply for the Max Planck Internship.
- Diverse academic backgrounds and interdisciplinary interests, for example, intersecting social science, economics, law, humanities, and others.
- No, knowledge of German is NOT required. All participating institutes use English as their working language.
Intern Duty
As an intern of Max Planck Internship 2026, you will work closely with a research group at one of the participating institutes and be mentored by at least one faculty member.
Visa Support
If you are selected for an internship and need a Visa to come to Germany, Max Planck Internship 2026 will provide the necessary documents to obtain the visa.
Required Documents
- You will need to provide your CV
- transcripts
- contact information for at least one reference
- an optional motivation letter
How to Apply?
- Submit your application through their official website.
- (Optional) Indicate the faculty members you would prefer to work with and your preferred internship period.
- (Optional) Include a motivation letter to highlight your interest in the internship.
- References are not requested immediately, so there is no need to contact them about missing referee requests.
- Research groups at the participating institutes will review your application.
- You may be invited to attend a phone or video interview if required.
- You will be notified of the application outcome by email.
- If selected, you will be connected with your faculty mentor to finalize internship dates and agree on a project.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This FAQ covers everything essential for the Max Planck Internship 2026: eligible applicants, participating institutes, application process and timing, evaluation, notifications, mentor preferences, references, competitive nature, and how internships can support thesis work.
What institutes offer the Max Planck Internship 2026?
The internships are offered at the Institutes for Informatics (Saarbrücken), Software Systems (Saarbrücken and Kaiserslautern), and Security and Privacy (Bochum), covering all areas of Computer Science in a research-oriented environment.
Who can apply for the Max Planck Internship 2026?
Applications are open to Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral students with strong computer science backgrounds, as well as industry professionals seeking academic research experience. Candidates must demonstrate an excellent academic record.
How do I apply for the Max Planck Internship 2026?
You must submit your application online via the designated portal. Include your CV, transcripts, and reference contact details. A motivation letter and your preferred mentors and internship period are optional but welcome.
When should I apply for the Max Planck Internship 2026?
For internships beginning between May and August, apply by November 1 of the previous year. If you plan to start at another time, submit your application at least five months before your intended start date to allow for review.
What happens after I submit my application for Max Planck Internship 2026?
Your application will be reviewed by research groups at the institutes. If additional input is needed, you may be invited to participate in a phone or video interview to discuss your background and research interests.
How will I be notified about the Max Planck Internship 2026 result?
You’ll receive notification of the outcome via email. If selected, you’ll then be connected with your assigned faculty mentor to finalize the internship’s exact dates and collaboratively define your project.
Can I choose my mentor or research institute for the Max Planck Internship 2026?
Yes. You can state preferred faculty members and your ideal internship period in your application. While this does not guarantee assignment, it helps align your interests with potential projects and mentors.
Are references requested immediately for Max Planck Internship 2026?
No. You only need to provide contact details for at least one reference. References are not requested right away—only if needed during review—so there’s no need to follow up about missing requests.
Can the Max Planck Internship 2026 turn into a thesis?
Yes. If your institute and home university agree, your internship can serve as the basis for a Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis. Make sure to indicate this intention in your application comments for consideration.
Are the Max Planck Internship 2026 positions competitive?
Yes. Internships are highly competitive and open to candidates with strong academic performance. Applicants are expected to have excellent records, regardless of educational level or experience length.
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