EPFL E3 Summer Internship 2026 Offers Fully Funded Research Opportunities in Switzerland

Applications are now being accepted for the EPFL Excellence in Engineering (E3) Summer Internship Program at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in Switzerland. This fully funded program offers Bachelor's and Master's students in engineering, science, and technology the chance to participate in cutting-edge research for 8 to 12 weeks during the summer of 2026. The deadline for applications is November 1st, 2025.

A Fully Funded Opportunity for Aspiring Engineers and Scientists

The EPFL E3 Summer Internship provides a comprehensive package to support international students, removing financial barriers to participation. The program covers:

Monthly Stipend of 1800 CHF Housing and Living Expenses International Travel Costs Partial Visa Costs

This generous support allows students to fully immerse themselves in their research and experience Swiss academic culture without financial strain.

Diverse Research Areas Available

Interns will be integrated into EPFL's research labs and can choose up to three research areas of interest. The program boasts a wide array of specializations, including:

Acoustics Artificial Intelligence Bioengineering Computer Science Materials Science and Engineering Robotics And many more

This diverse selection allows students to tailor their internship experience to their specific academic and career goals. Participants will also benefit from dedicated E3 workshops and social events designed to foster collaboration and networking.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the EPFL E3 Summer Internship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's program at the time of application and throughout the internship duration. (PhD students are not eligible.) Have completed at least their second year of a Bachelor's degree at the time of application. Be pursuing a degree in a field of engineering, science, or technology. English language certificates are not required.

The Value of International Research Experience

Dr. Anya Sharma, a professor of international education at the University of Geneva, emphasizes the importance of international research experiences. "Programs like the EPFL E3 Summer Internship offer invaluable opportunities for students to develop crucial skills in a global context. They gain exposure to different research methodologies, collaborate with international peers, and enhance their cross-cultural communication abilities – all of which are highly valued by employers and graduate programs."

Historical Context and Current Trends in International Scholarships

The EPFL E3 Summer Internship reflects a broader trend toward increased international collaboration in research and education. Historically, scholarships and internships have played a vital role in promoting academic exchange and fostering global understanding. In the post-World War II era, programs like the Fulbright Scholarship aimed to rebuild international ties and promote mutual understanding through educational exchange. Today, institutions worldwide recognize the benefits of diverse perspectives and are actively investing in initiatives that support international student mobility.

According to a recent report by the Institute of International Education (IIE), participation in international internships has steadily increased over the past decade. This growth is driven by the recognition that these experiences provide students with a competitive edge in the global job market.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply online through the official EPFL E3 Summer Program website. The application requires the submission of relevant documents, and there is no application fee.

"The EPFL E3 program not only provides a fully funded experience but also equips students with invaluable research skills and cross-cultural competencies," says Dr. Sharma. "It's an excellent opportunity for aspiring engineers and scientists to gain a competitive edge in their future careers."

Application Deadline: November 1st, 2025