Are you a computer science, engineering, or physics student with a passion for cutting-edge technology? The CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme 2026 offers a remarkable opportunity to work at the world’s largest particle physics laboratory in Switzerland. This fully funded summer programme allows talented students from all nationalities to spend nine weeks working on advanced computing projects alongside world-leading experts. If you are seeking an international internship that combines innovation, research, and career growth, this programme could be your gateway to an extraordinary experience in scientific computing.
About the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme
The CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme is a prestigious nine-week internship held annually at CERN in Meyrin, Switzerland. CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is home to groundbreaking experiments including the Large Hadron Collider and is famously known as the birthplace of the World Wide Web.
CERN Openlab is a unique public-private partnership that accelerates the development of cutting-edge computing technologies for the worldwide LHC community and broader scientific research. Through this collaboration, CERN works with leading technology companies and research institutes to tackle some of the most complex computing challenges in science.
The programme brings together Bachelor’s and Master’s students from around the globe who specialize in computer science, mathematics, engineering, or physics with strong computing profiles. Selected students work on real projects related to artificial intelligence, data science, software optimization, digital twins, and other advanced computing topics. Each participant is assigned a dedicated CERN supervisor who guides them throughout the programme.
What makes this programme exceptional is the opportunity to work with the latest hardware and software technologies while contributing to projects that support CERN’s large-scale scientific experiments. Students also attend specialized lectures from computing experts, participate in workshops, and visit CERN’s unique facilities. At the end of the nine weeks, each student produces a report and delivers a public presentation of their work.
CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Switzerland |
| Host Institution | CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research) |
| Location | Meyrin, Geneva, Switzerland |
| Level of Study | Bachelor’s and Master’s Students |
| Eligible Fields | Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Physics (with strong computing profile) |
| Programme Duration | 9 weeks (June to August 2026) |
| Financial Support | 93 CHF per day allowance, travel costs, health insurance |
| IELTS Requirement | Not required (good knowledge of English needed) |
| Eligible Nationalities | All nationalities welcome |
| Application Deadline | January 26, 2026, 23:59 CET (Geneva time) |
| Category | Fully Funded Summer Internship |
Benefits of the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme
The CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme offers comprehensive financial and professional benefits that make it one of the most attractive summer opportunities for computing students worldwide.
Financial Benefits:
- Daily subsistence allowance of 93 CHF (approximately $105 USD) per calendar day, tax-free
- Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive Health Insurance scheme (contribution already deducted from allowance)
- Travel expenses to Geneva upon joining CERN, depending on individual circumstances
- Assistance in finding accommodation on the CERN site or nearby
Professional and Academic Benefits:
- Hands-on experience working on real computing projects at a world-renowned research institution
- Access to an extensive physics lecture programme designed for summer students
- Additional IT lectures organized specifically by CERN Openlab
- Dedicated supervision from CERN experts throughout the programme
- Opportunity to produce a formal research report and deliver a public presentation
- Networking with students from diverse backgrounds and nationalities
- Access to CERN’s unique facilities and laboratories
- Participation in discussions, workshops, and site visits
Career Development Benefits:
- Exposure to the latest hardware and software technologies used in scientific research
- Experience working on projects related to AI, machine learning, data science, and high-energy physics computing
- Potential for follow-on projects at your home institution
- Inspiration and skills that could lead to entrepreneurship in cutting-edge computing technologies
- Association with CERN as an affiliated member of personnel during your contract
Over nine weeks, the total financial value of the programme exceeds 5,800 CHF (approximately $6,500 USD), not including travel reimbursement and the invaluable professional experience gained.
Eligibility Criteria for CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme
To be considered for the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme 2026, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements. Review these criteria carefully before applying.
Academic Requirements:
- Must be a Bachelor’s or Master’s student (PhD candidates are not eligible)
- Must have a strong computing profile in your academic background
- Must have completed at least 6 semesters (3 academic years) of full-time university studies by summer 2026
- Must remain enrolled as a full-time student at least until the start of your summer at CERN
- Students expecting to graduate during European summer 2026 (as of May) are also eligible to apply
Field of Study Requirements:
- Students from the departments of Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Physics are eligible
- If your academic background is in a different field but your transcript reflects strong technical knowledge and a computing profile, you are welcome to apply
Previous CERN Experience:
- You must not have worked at CERN for more than 3 months under any other status
- You must not have previously participated in any Summer Student Programme at CERN
Language Requirements:
- Good knowledge of English is required
- IELTS or other standardized English tests are not mandatory
- Working languages at CERN are English and French
Nationality:
- Candidates of all nationalities are welcome to apply
- There are no citizenship restrictions for this programme
Required Documents for CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme Application
Preparing a complete application requires gathering several important documents. All documents must be in English or French, clearly labeled, and submitted in PDF format.
Mandatory Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) clearly outlining your education, skills, and experience
- Academic transcript showing your university-level coursework and grades
- Academic reference letter dated less than 12 months from application submission
- A second reference letter is recommended though not mandatory
Additional Documents:
- Any document you consider relevant to your application, such as:
- Certificates of programming competitions or hackathons
- Portfolio of personal or academic computing projects
- Publications or research papers (if applicable)
- Certificates of relevant online courses or certifications
Document Specifications:
- All documents must be in PDF format
- Documents must be in English or French
- Each document should be clearly labeled (e.g., “CV,” “Academic Transcript,” “Reference Letter”)
- Reference letters should be recent (within the last 12 months)
- Be as specific as possible when filling in the “Education” and “Experience” sections of the application form
Application Timeline for CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme
Understanding the application timeline is essential for successful submission. The CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme follows a structured timeline.
Key Dates for 2026 Programme:
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | November 2025 |
| Application Deadline | January 26, 2026, 23:59 CET (Geneva time) |
| Results Announcement | Late March / Early April 2026 |
| Invitation Letters Sent (for visa purposes) | Around May 2026 |
| Programme Start Dates | June 22 or June 29, 2026 |
| Programme Duration | 9 weeks (June to August 2026) |
Important Notes on Timeline:
- Application forms submitted after the deadline will not be considered
- You will receive a confirmation email once your application has been successfully submitted
- The acceptance letter can be used to start your visa procedure before the official invitation letter arrives
- CERN Openlab summer student contracts always start on a Monday and end on a Friday
- Students must be at CERN at 8:30 AM on their first contract day for the official Welcome Session
How to Apply for the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme
The application process for the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme is conducted entirely online. Follow these steps to submit a successful application.
Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility
Before starting your application, confirm that you meet all eligibility criteria. Ensure you will have completed at least three years of full-time university studies by summer 2026 and that you have a strong computing profile.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Gather all required documents including your CV, academic transcript, and reference letter(s). Convert all documents to PDF format and label them clearly.
Step 3: Visit the CERN Careers Portal
Go to the official CERN careers website and locate the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme 2026 listing. You can also access the application through the CERN Openlab website.
Step 4: Create an Account or Log In
If you are a new applicant, create an account on the CERN careers portal. If you have applied to CERN programmes before, use your existing credentials.
Step 5: Complete the Online Application Form
Fill in all sections of the application form carefully. Pay special attention to the “Education” and “Experience” sections, providing as much specific detail as possible about your computing skills and projects.
Step 6: Upload Your Documents
Upload all required documents in PDF format. Ensure each document is clearly labeled and legible.
Step 7: Review and Submit
Review your entire application for accuracy and completeness. Once satisfied, submit your application before the deadline of January 26, 2026, at 23:59 CET.
Step 8: Confirmation
After submitting, you will receive a confirmation email. Save this for your records.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Apply early and do not wait until the last day, as technical issues may arise
- Highlight specific computing projects you have worked on, including personal projects
- Mention relevant programming languages, tools, and technologies you are proficient in
- Request reference letters well in advance to give your recommenders adequate time
- Tailor your CV to emphasize computing skills and technical experience
- If you have participated in hackathons, coding competitions, or open-source projects, include these
- Be clear about which areas of computing interest you most (AI, data science, software development, etc.)
FAQs about the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme
Who is eligible for the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme?
Bachelor’s and Master’s students in computer science, mathematics, engineering, or physics with strong computing profiles are eligible. You must have completed at least three years of full-time university studies by summer 2026 and remain enrolled as a student during the programme.
Is IELTS required for the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme?
No, IELTS or other standardized English language tests are not required. However, you must have a good working knowledge of English, as it is one of the working languages at CERN.
Can students of any nationality apply?
Yes, candidates of all nationalities are welcome to apply. There are no citizenship restrictions for the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme.
What is the stipend amount for the programme?
Selected students receive a daily subsistence allowance of 93 CHF (Swiss Francs) per calendar day, which is tax-free. This amounts to over 5,800 CHF for the nine-week programme.
When will I know if I have been selected?
Applicants will receive a response to their application by late March or early April 2026. Invitation letters for visa purposes will be sent around May 2026.
Can I choose my start date?
The available start dates for summer 2026 are June 22 and June 29. Students cannot choose dates outside these options, and contracts always start on a Monday.
Can I apply if I am graduating in 2026?
Yes, students expecting to graduate during European summer 2026 (as of May) are eligible to apply for the programme.
Need Help with Your Application? ScholyHub Consultancy Can Assist
Applying for competitive programmes like the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme requires a well-crafted application that showcases your technical skills and potential. If you need personalized guidance, ScholyHub Consultancy is here to help.
Our experienced consultants can assist you with:
- Reviewing and strengthening your CV for technical programmes
- Crafting compelling descriptions of your computing experience and projects
- Preparing reference letter requests and guidance for recommenders
- Application review to ensure completeness and competitiveness
- Strategic advice on presenting your technical profile effectively
Visit ScholyHub Consultants to learn more about our services and request a consultation. Our team has helped numerous students secure positions at top research institutions and programmes worldwide.
Final Thoughts on the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme
The CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme 2026 represents an exceptional opportunity for computing students to gain hands-on experience at one of the world’s most prestigious research institutions. With a generous daily allowance, travel support, health insurance coverage, and the chance to work on cutting-edge technology projects, this fully funded summer programme offers unmatched value for students pursuing careers in computer science, data science, AI, or scientific computing.
What sets this programme apart is the combination of practical project work, expert supervision, and exposure to the unique environment of CERN. Whether you are interested in machine learning, software optimization, data storage solutions, or digital twins, the projects available cover a wide range of advanced computing topics that are shaping the future of scientific research.
The application process is straightforward, and students from all nationalities are encouraged to apply. With no IELTS requirement and comprehensive financial support, the primary barriers to participation have been removed. What matters most is your passion for computing, your technical skills, and your curiosity to learn.
If you are a Bachelor’s or Master’s student with a strong computing background, this is your chance to spend nine weeks in Switzerland, contribute to meaningful research, and build connections that could shape your entire career.