Your Guide To The CERN Summer Student Programme

The CERN summer student programme is one of the most exciting opportunities for students who dream of exploring science at the heart of groundbreaking discoveries. Every year, hundreds of students from across the globe come to CERN in Geneva, Switzerland, to gain hands-on experience in physics, engineering, mathematics, and computing. This programme is not just about learning through lectures or workshops; it’s about stepping into the shoes of a scientist and working on real experiments that push the boundaries of what we know about our universe.

What is the CERN Summer Student Programme?

CERN, known for its particle accelerators and its role in the development of the World Wide Web, is one of the most important science hubs on Earth. The summer student programme is designed for students pursuing studies in physics, computer science, mathematics, or engineering. It offers them a unique chance to work alongside top scientists and professionals who are passionate about exploring the tiniest particles that make up the universe. For a few weeks, students get to be a part of exciting research, working on experiments and computing tasks that directly support CERN’s projects.

Who Can Apply to the Programme?

To join this programme, you need to be a student with a strong interest in science and technology. Most applicants are completing or have completed a bachelor’s degree, while others may be pursuing a master’s degree. Whether you are from Japan, the United States, or anywhere else in the world, you are welcome to apply, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
Key requirements often include:

• Having an academic degree in a related field, such as physics, engineering, computer science, or mathematics.
• Being enrolled in studies leading to a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree.
• A solid foundation in topics like computing, particle physics, and mathematics.
• A willingness to participate in a multicultural environment, where students work together with peers from different countries and backgrounds.

What Do Students Gain from the Programme?

The experience at CERN is about much more than just attending lectures. As a summer student, you’re involved in real experiments that make a difference to the scientific community. You’ll learn from experts who have years of research behind them and who are excited to share their knowledge.
Some highlights of what students gain include:

• Hands-on experience: Work directly with computing tools, engineering equipment, and particle accelerator technology.
• Practical research skills: Learn how experiments are designed and carried out, from initial planning to data analysis.
• Multicultural exposure: Collaborate with students and scientists from countries across the globe, gaining fresh perspectives.
• Career benefits: The skills and experience gained here can help you move forward with a thesis, a future doctor of philosophy (PhD) degree, or even a career as a scientist.

How Does the Programme Work?

The CERN summer student programme combines research projects, lectures, and practical workshops. You’ll also have opportunities for visits to the accelerators and experimental areas, which are the heart of particle physics experiments at CERN. Below, we shall go through them in detail to give you a clear picture of how it all comes together.

1. Workshops and Lectures

Imagine attending a lecture from a scientist who has worked on groundbreaking discoveries. That’s exactly what you get here. Workshops and lectures cover everything from the basics of physics to advanced computing and engineering topics. You’ll learn how CERN uses its particle accelerator to study the building blocks of matter and how scientists develop new technology to improve experiments.

2. Research and Experiments

The summer student programme is all about applying knowledge in a real-world setting. Whether you’re working with data from a particle physics experiment or developing new computing solutions, the work you do matters. You might even find yourself contributing to a project that will later be part of a published thesis or scientific paper.

3. Visits to the Accelerators

One of the most exciting parts of the programme is exploring the accelerators and experimental areas. These are the machines that power CERN’s experiments, helping scientists study particles at incredibly high speeds. Standing next to a particle accelerator is a reminder of how much human curiosity and innovation can achieve.

Life at CERN in Geneva

Life in Geneva during the programme is as enriching as the work itself. Students live in Switzerland, surrounded by stunning landscapes and a vibrant international community. Being at CERN in Geneva means being part of a team that has changed the world, from the development of the World Wide Web to experiments that deepen our understanding of the universe. You’ll find that the environment encourages collaboration, learning, and personal growth.

Why Choose the CERN Summer Student Programme in 2025?

The 2025 programme is set to offer even more opportunities for students looking to build careers in science, engineering, and computing. If you’re planning to work on a thesis, pursue a doctor of philosophy degree, or simply want to experience the thrill of real experiments, this programme is the perfect stepping stone. With advancements in particle physics and computing, 2025 promises projects that are more innovative and impactful than ever.

How to Apply and Prepare?

Applying to the programme can feel competitive, but with the right preparation, you have a great chance. Here are some tips:

• Focus on highlighting your academic degree, whether it’s a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree, and your interest in physics or computer science.
• Mention any relevant experience, such as programming, data analysis, or research projects.
• Show your curiosity and enthusiasm for science and technology.
• Be prepared to discuss how this programme can help you achieve your academic and career goals, such as a future PhD or engineering role.

Student Opportunities

When we talk about student opportunities at CERN, it’s hard not to see just how much this experience can shape someone’s future. This isn’t just about getting summer work experience;  it’s about being part of something with true scientific value. The programme is designed for students pursuing bachelor’s or master’s degrees who want a unique opportunity to work at CERN, surrounded by some of the most advanced scientific facilities in the world. It’s a way to spend your summer that feels exciting, meaningful, and inspiring.

Students participating in this programme are not simply watching from the sidelines. They get involved in the day-to-day work of research teams participating in experiments at CERN in Geneva. These research teams work on theoretical and experimental particle physics, computing, and engineering projects that are accelerating science in new ways. It’s a chance to see how the theories you study in class turn into real-life experiments.

Some key highlights of student opportunities include:

• Practical training period: Students get hands-on experience with projects that have global scientific importance.
• Workshops and lectures: There’s a series of lectures specially prepared by experts at CERN that cover a wide range of topics, from computer science to advanced physics.
• Access to advanced facilities: You’ll visit CERN facilities like particle accelerators and experimental areas, seeing where groundbreaking research happens.
• Cultural and academic exchange: Students from around the world come together, bringing fresh ideas and creating a truly collaborative environment.

There’s also the OpenLab summer student programme, which focuses on computing and IT projects. If you join the openlab summer student programme, you’ll collaborate with CERN’s top engineers and programmers, working on high-impact digital solutions that support experiments. For those thinking ahead, there are pathways to careers at CERN through these programmes, especially for undergraduate students who perform well during their stay.

The experience is intense but rewarding. Whether it’s an eight-week placement or up to a maximum stay of 13 weeks, every day brings a new challenge. For many selected students, this becomes more than just a summer job;  it’s a step toward a career in science or engineering. With the birthplace of the World Wide Web as your backdrop, the atmosphere here is unlike any other.

Minimum Qualifications and/or Eligibility Requirements

CERN is looking for bright, curious students who have a passion for science and technology. To apply, you don’t need to have years of experience, but there are clear eligibility requirements to ensure students can contribute meaningfully during the programme.

The minimum qualifications include:

• Academic background: You need to be in full-time studies at university level, either pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree. This means you could be in the middle of your bachelor’s or master’s programme, or even considering master’s degrees in physics or related fields.
• Length of studies: Typically, applicants should have completed at least three years of full-time studies in a relevant field like physics, computer science, mathematics, or engineering.
• Programme duration: The minimum stay is eight weeks, and in some cases, students can stay up to a maximum of 13 weeks. This gives enough time for meaningful participation in experiments at CERN.
• Nationality: The programme is open to students from around the world, not just Europe. Students from any background or country are encouraged to apply.

The selection process is straightforward but competitive. Students participating are chosen based on their academic record, motivation, and interest in the projects at CERN. You’ll need to fill out an application form and highlight why this is the perfect way to spend your summer.

Conclusion

The CERN summer student programme is more than just an internship;  it’s an opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in science. From exploring particle accelerators to attending inspiring lectures, every moment at CERN in Geneva can shape your future career. If you have a passion for physics, mathematics, engineering, or computer science, this could be your first step toward becoming a scientist who makes a difference in the world.

CERN Summer Student Programme FAQs