Are you a student dreaming of spending your summer working in one of the most beautiful and innovative countries in the world — Switzerland? Well, here’s your chance.
Applications are now open for the EPFL E3 Summer Internship 2026, one of Europe’s most prestigious fully funded research programs. This opportunity is hosted by École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), a top-ranked university known for cutting-edge research and international collaboration.
Whether you’re studying engineering, science, or technology, this program is designed to give you real research experience, a taste of Swiss culture, and the opportunity to work alongside world-class professors — all while getting paid.
✨ What is the EPFL E3 Summer Internship?
The EPFL Excellence in Engineering (E3) Internship Program is an international summer internship that welcomes talented undergraduate and master’s students from around the world.
The program runs for 8 to 12 weeks during the summer of 2026. It’s fully funded, which means you don’t have to worry about travel, accommodation, or living costs — EPFL takes care of it all.
The goal? To help young engineers and scientists like you gain hands-on experience in a professional research environment while contributing to real projects that make a difference.
📍 Quick Summary of the EPFL E3 Summer Internship 2026
Category | Details |
Host Country | Switzerland 🇨🇭 |
Institution | EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne) |
Duration | 8–12 Weeks (Summer 2026) |
Funding Type | Fully Funded |
Deadline | 1st November 2025 |
Eligible Levels | Bachelor’s and Master’s students |
Fields | Engineering, Science, and Technology |
💰 Financial Benefits (Fully Funded)
One of the best parts about this internship is that it’s 100% free for selected participants. You don’t need to pay an application fee or cover any hidden costs.
EPFL will provide:
So, in essence, you’ll spend your summer in Switzerland, get professional experience, meet brilliant people, and travel — without spending a dime.
🧠 Who Can Apply?
This program is open to students currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program in any of the following fields:
Essentially, if you’re studying science, engineering, or technology, there’s a place for you at EPFL.
Eligibility Checklist:
✅ You must be enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program (PhD students are not eligible).
✅ You must have completed at least your second year of undergraduate studies by the time you apply.
✅ Your coursework should be in engineering, science, or technology-related fields.
✅ You must be available for the entire duration of the internship (8–12 weeks).
✅ English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL are not required.
Yes, you read that right — no IELTS needed!
🔬 Research Areas You Can Choose From
EPFL is famous for its cutting-edge research labs, and as an intern, you’ll become part of one of them. You can select up to three research areas that match your academic background and interests.
Here’s a taste of what’s available:
Whether you’re into designing robots, studying materials at the atomic level, or developing algorithms for the next generation of AI — there’s a research lab waiting for you at EPFL.
🌞 What’s Life Like as an EPFL Intern?
Imagine waking up in Lausanne — a city surrounded by mountains, lakes, and the calm beauty of Switzerland. You grab your breakfast, take a short walk or train ride to the EPFL campus, and spend your day working in a high-tech lab with passionate researchers from all over the world.
That’s what the EPFL summer internship feels like.
But it’s not all work! The E3 program also organizes social activities, workshops, and cultural events for interns. You’ll get to network with other students, explore Switzerland, and experience Swiss life in a truly international environment.
🗂️ Required Documents
To complete your application, you’ll need to prepare the following:
💡 Pro Tip: Focus your motivation letter on how this internship connects to your academic and career goals. Mention specific research areas or professors at EPFL that interest you. This shows genuine motivation and helps your application stand out.
⏰ Deadline and Important Dates
Early applications are encouraged, as selection is competitive and reviewed on a rolling basis.
🌍 Why Choose the EPFL E3 Summer Internship?
There are hundreds of summer research programs worldwide — so why choose EPFL?
Here are a few reasons:
1. Work at One of Europe’s Top Universities
EPFL consistently ranks among the top 20 universities in the world for science and engineering. You’ll be working alongside world-renowned scientists on real, impactful projects.
2. Fully Funded = No Worries
No tuition fees. No visa stress. No financial burden. EPFL handles all major costs so you can focus on learning and exploration.
3. Cultural Exposure
Switzerland is a melting pot of cultures. You’ll meet people from across the globe and get a taste of European life.
4. Professional Growth
You’ll develop valuable research and technical skills that will boost your career — whether you plan to pursue a master’s, PhD, or enter industry.
5. Networking Opportunities
You’ll make connections with professors, researchers, and fellow interns that could open doors to future academic or professional opportunities.
💡 Real-Life Example
Let’s take Amira, a mechanical engineering student from Ghana. She joined the EPFL E3 Summer Internship in 2024.
During her 10-week stay, she worked on a renewable energy project focusing on solar-powered mechanical systems. By the end of the internship, her research paper was published in collaboration with her supervisor — and she later returned to EPFL for her master’s degree on a full scholarship.
That’s the power of this internship: it doesn’t just end when summer does. It can become your gateway to bigger opportunities.
🧭 How to Apply for the EPFL E3 Summer Internship 2026
The application process is simple and completely online.
Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
Go to the official link: 👉 EPFL E3 Summer Internship 2026
You’ll need to sign up on the application portal.
Provide your personal details, academic information, and preferred research areas.
Include your CV, transcript, motivation letter, and recommendation letter.
Double-check everything and submit before the deadline. Remember — there’s no application fee!
🗣️ Final Thoughts
The EPFL E3 Summer Internship 2026 is not just an academic experience — it’s an adventure that could transform your future.
You’ll work with brilliant minds, live in a breathtaking country, and build skills that will make your resume stand out anywhere in the world.
If you’re passionate about science, engineering, or technology — and you’re ready for an unforgettable summer — this is your sign to apply.
So, what are you waiting for?
📅 Deadline: 1st November 2025
🎯 Apply here → EPFL E3 Summer Internship Official Link
