CERN Openlab 2026 Summer Programme Opens Applications for Tech Students

Applications are now being accepted for the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme 2026. The prestigious nine-week programme is scheduled for summer 2026 at CERN in Geneva, Switzerland. It targets bachelor’s and master’s students specializing in computer science and related fields. Selected students will work directly with cutting-edge computing technologies.

This initiative provides a unique opportunity to contribute to projects at the world’s leading particle physics laboratory. According to details released by CERN, the programme blends practical work with an extensive lecture series.

What the CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme Offers

Participants receive a comprehensive support package. This includes a tax-free subsistence allowance of 93 CHF per day. The allowance is designed to cover living costs during the stay.

CERN also provides coverage under its comprehensive Health Insurance scheme. The programme assists with travel expenses to Geneva based on individual circumstances. Help with finding accommodation on or near the CERN site is also part of the package.

Beyond financial support, the educational component is significant. Students attend a dedicated series of IT lectures organized by Openlab. They can also participate in an extensive general physics lecture programme.

Eligibility and Application Process Details

Eligibility for the programme is specific. Applicants must be Bachelor’s or Master’s students with a strong computing profile. They must have completed at least three years of full-time university studies by summer 2026.

PhD candidates are not eligible for this particular programme. Applicants must not have previously worked at CERN for more than three months. They also cannot have been a part of CERN’s Summer Student Programme before.

A good knowledge of English is mandatory. Candidates must remain enrolled as full-time students until their summer at CERN begins. Applications require several documents in PDF format.

These documents include a CV, a recent academic transcript, and a reference letter. A motivation letter is recommended but not mandatory. The application deadline is January 26, 2026.

The CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme represents a premier opportunity for tech students to accelerate their careers. It offers unparalleled access to advanced projects and expert knowledge. This experience is a significant career differentiator in the competitive field of computing.

Info at your fingertips

What is the stipend for the CERN Openlab programme?

Students receive a subsistence allowance of 93 Swiss Francs per calendar day. This amount is tax-free and intended to cover living expenses throughout the nine-week programme.

Who is eligible to apply for this programme?

The programme is open to Bachelor’s and Master’s students in computer science or related fields. Applicants must have completed at least three years of university studies by the summer of 2026 and have a good knowledge of English.

What kind of work do summer students do?

Students work on cutting-edge projects with CERN’s collaborators. They gain hands-on experience with the latest hardware and software technologies used in high-energy physics and advanced computing.

Does CERN provide accommodation and health insurance?

Yes, assistance is provided to find accommodation on or near the CERN site. Students are also covered by CERN’s comprehensive Health Insurance scheme, with the contribution deducted from the daily allowance.

What is the application deadline for the 2026 programme?

The deadline for all applications is January 26, 2026. All required documents, including a CV, academic transcript, and reference letter, must be submitted by this date.