Is CERN Summer Student Programme open now?
The 2026 round is closed, and CERN’s current programme page does not yet publish the next deadline. The programme itself remains active.
How much does CERN pay?
CERN currently lists a net subsistence allowance of 94 CHF per calendar day, with health insurance included and possible travel support depending on individual circumstances.
Who can apply?
Bachelor’s and master’s students—not PhD students—in physics, engineering, computer science or mathematics can apply after completing at least six semesters and while remaining enrolled.
Can Pakistani students apply?
Yes. CERN states that the Summer Student Programme is an exception to the usual nationality restriction, and students from non-member countries can participate subject to the programme rules.
What does this scholarship actually cover?
CERN Summer Students receive 94 CHF per calendar day, health insurance coverage and possible travel support. The programme is a paid research studentship rather than a tuition scholarship.
Other verified benefits
94 CHF net per calendar day, CERN health insurance, possible travel support depending on circumstances, help finding accommodation, lectures, workshops and an 8–13 week scientific or technical project.
Costs not confirmed or not covered
Accommodation is not automatically free; CERN provides assistance to find housing. Travel reimbursement depends on individual circumstances.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must be bachelor's or master's students, not PhD students, in physics, engineering, computer science or mathematics; have completed at least six semesters by the start of summer; remain enrolled; have good English; and not have previously participated in the CERN Summer Student Programme.
Applicants must not have worked at CERN for more than three months under another status and cannot have previously taken part in the Summer Student Programme.
Eligible countries
Students of any nationality can apply to the Summer Student Programme, including students from countries that are not CERN members, subject to the programme rules.
Language requirements
Good knowledge of English.
Which documents should you prepare?
- CV or résumé
- Academic transcripts
- Two reference letters
What should you do next?
- Monitor CERN Careers for the next Summer Studentship vacancy.
- Prepare an English or French CV, official transcript and academic reference letter.
- Confirm that you will remain enrolled through the start of the summer.
- Apply through CERN Careers before the next published deadline.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the CERN Summer Student Programme pay?
CERN currently publishes a net subsistence allowance of 94 CHF per calendar day. The programme also includes CERN health-insurance coverage, and travel expenses may be supported depending on the student's individual circumstances.
Can Pakistani students apply for the CERN Summer Student Programme?
Yes. CERN's nationality rules contain an exception for the Summer Student Programme, and CERN has stated that students from countries that are not CERN members can apply. Students must still meet the academic, enrolment, semester and previous-CERN-experience requirements.