CERN’s Summer Student Programme is currently open for applications for the upcoming summer cycle. Bachelor’s and Master’s students in physics, engineering, computer science and mathematics can spend 8–13 weeks at CERN working on scientific or technical projects, attending lectures and joining an international student cohort.
CERN Summer Student Programme 2027
The programme gives university students an opportunity to work alongside CERN research and technical teams in Geneva. Students join active projects, attend a dedicated lecture programme and take part in workshops, discussions and visits to CERN facilities.
| Host | CERN — European Organization for Nuclear Research |
|---|---|
| Location | Geneva, Switzerland |
| Duration | Minimum 8 weeks; maximum 13 weeks |
| Academic level | Bachelor’s or Master’s students |
| Main fields | Physics, Engineering, Computer Science and Mathematics |
| Current status | Open |
| Deadline guidance | No later than end of January; exact current-year date must be checked on CERN Careers |
Eligibility
- You must be pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, not a PhD.
- By the start of the summer, you should have completed at least six semesters of full-time university study in physics, engineering, computer science, mathematics or a closely related field.
- You must remain enrolled as a full-time student at least until the start of the summer studentship.
- You should have good knowledge of English.
- You must not previously have participated in CERN’s Summer Student Programme.
- You must not have worked at CERN for more than three months under another status.
What Summer Students Do
- work on a scientific or technical project within a CERN team;
- attend specialist lectures in particle physics, engineering, computing and related topics;
- visit CERN accelerators and experimental areas;
- join workshops, discussions and student activities; and
- prepare a short report on their work at the end of the stay.
The programme combines project experience with structured learning and exposure to CERN’s multidisciplinary research environment.
How to Apply
CERN’s current Summer Studentship guidance asks candidates to submit an online application through CERN Careers.
- CV in English or French;
- completed online application form;
- academic reference letter; and
- official academic transcripts.
Nationality and Country-Specific Routes
CERN states that all nationalities are welcome to apply for the Summer Student Programme. However, students from certain countries use dedicated national routes.
| Most nationalities | Apply through the CERN Careers Summer Student route. |
|---|---|
| Canada | Use the dedicated Canadian route linked by CERN. |
| United States | Use the dedicated U.S. route linked by CERN. |
| Japan | Use the dedicated Japanese route linked by CERN. |
How to Prepare a Strong Application
- Keep the CV technically focused and highlight projects, programming, laboratory or engineering experience relevant to CERN.
- Use the application to explain what you have actually built, analysed, simulated or measured rather than relying on generic motivation.
- Choose a referee who can comment on your academic and technical ability.
- Prepare clean transcripts early and check the exact current deadline before final submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CERN Summer Student Programme open?
Yes. CERN currently states that the programme is open for applications.
What is the current deadline?
CERN states that applications should arrive no later than the end of January and directs candidates to CERN Careers for the exact current-year deadline.
Can PhD students apply?
No. The Summer Studentship is for eligible Bachelor’s and Master’s students, not PhD candidates.
How long does the programme last?
Students come to CERN for between eight and thirteen weeks.
Can students of any nationality apply?
Yes. CERN says all nationalities are welcome, although Canada, the United States and Japan use dedicated national application routes.
Official CERN Sources
| Programme status | Open |
|---|---|
| Duration | 8–13 weeks |
| Deadline guidance | End of January; exact deadline on CERN Careers |
| Last verified | 4 October 2026 |
