Internships provide students and early-career professionals with the opportunity to gain real-world experience, build a professional network, and enhance their resumes. Switzerland, known for its high standard of living, innovation, and leading global companies, offers some of the most prestigious internship opportunities in various fields such as science, technology, finance, and public health. The year 2025 brings a fresh round of internships, and if you’re considering applying, this guide will provide all the necessary details to help you navigate the process and secure a spot in one of the world’s most exciting internship programs.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the top internship programs available in Switzerland for 2025, including the eligibility requirements, benefits, and application processes. We will also provide practical advice on how to successfully apply, making sure you’re fully equipped to start your application journey.
Switzerland Internship Applications Now Open For 2025
| Internship Program | Eligibility Criteria | Duration | Location | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CERN Technical Student Program | Undergraduate students with 18 months of study | 4 to 12 months | Geneva, Switzerland | March 3, 2025 |
| UBS Summer Internship Program | Students in their penultimate or final year | 8 to 10 weeks (Summer) | Switzerland (multiple locations) | September (dates vary) |
| Swiss Summer Student Program | Bachelor’s and Master’s students in specific fields | 9 weeks (July – September) | ETH Zurich, University of Zurich, EPFL | March 16, 2025 |
| EPFL Summer Internship Programs | Open to international students (Engineering, Computer Science, Life Sciences) | 3–8 weeks (Summer) | Lausanne, Switzerland | Varies by program |
| WHO Internship Program | Enrolled in a course or recent graduate | 6 to 24 weeks | Geneva, Switzerland | Ongoing (check for specific dates) |
Switzerland offers a wealth of internship opportunities in various fields, from research and science to finance and public health. Securing an internship in Switzerland in 2025 could be a transformative experience for your career, providing access to world-class institutions, competitive compensation, and a unique cultural experience. Whether you’re aiming to work at CERN, UBS, or the WHO, the key to success lies in understanding the application process, preparing your materials carefully, and demonstrating your passion for the field.
Why Choose Switzerland for an Internship?
Switzerland is globally recognized for its high standards of education, innovation, and research. Its internship programs offer more than just exposure to cutting-edge technologies or academic fields—they also provide a unique cultural experience. Working in Switzerland means being immersed in a highly efficient work culture that emphasizes quality, precision, and sustainability.
Additionally, Switzerland is home to major international organizations like CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research) and the World Health Organization (WHO). These organizations provide unique learning environments for interns, as well as ample networking opportunities that could have a significant impact on your future career.
1. CERN Technical Student Program
About CERN
CERN is the world’s largest particle physics laboratory, known for its groundbreaking research and the discovery of the Higgs boson. Situated in Geneva, Switzerland, CERN conducts research on the fundamental constituents of matter. As an intern, you will have the chance to contribute to ongoing research projects while working alongside scientists and engineers from around the world.
Eligibility and Benefits
The CERN Technical Student Program is designed for undergraduate students in engineering, computing, or physics who have completed at least 18 months of studies by the time the internship starts. The program is open to students from CERN’s Member States and offers an incredible opportunity to get hands-on experience at one of the world’s top research facilities.
Benefits include:
- A monthly allowance of 3,452 CHF
- Travel allowances
- Health insurance coverage
- 2.5 days of paid leave each month
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects in physics and engineering
Application Deadline: March 3, 2025
How to Apply: Apply Here
2. UBS Summer Internship Program
About UBS
UBS is one of the world’s leading financial services companies, known for its work in wealth management, investment banking, and asset management. An internship with UBS is a fantastic way to gain exposure to the fast-paced world of finance, working alongside professionals in an international environment.
Eligibility and Benefits
This program is aimed at students who are in their penultimate or final year of study. UBS seeks candidates who have a strong academic record and demonstrate potential in business, finance, or economics. The internship lasts between 8 and 10 weeks, offering practical exposure to areas like asset management, wealth management, and investment banking.
UBS provides competitive compensation, along with opportunities to attend exclusive networking events and career development seminars.
Application Deadline: September (specific dates vary)
How to Apply: Apply Here
3. Swiss Summer Student Program
About the Program
The Swiss Summer Student Program (S3P) allows undergraduate and Master’s students from around the world to work at some of Switzerland’s most prestigious universities and research institutes. The program is designed for students pursuing studies in physics, computer science, engineering, and life sciences. With a duration of 9 weeks (July to September), the program gives students hands-on experience in academic research and development.
Eligibility and Benefits
Eligible students must be pursuing a degree in one of the eligible fields and demonstrate academic excellence. The program is fully funded, covering:
- Airfare
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Health insurance
- A monthly stipend
Application Deadline: March 16, 2025
How to Apply: Apply Here
4. EPFL Summer Internship Programs
About EPFL
The École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) is one of Europe’s top universities in engineering, technology, and life sciences. EPFL’s summer internship programs are an excellent way to gain exposure to the latest research in various fields such as robotics, computer science, and bioengineering.
Eligibility and Benefits
These internships are open to students from around the world, with a focus on engineering, computer science, and life sciences. The program lasts between 3 and 8 weeks depending on the internship, offering interns a chance to work in one of EPFL’s cutting-edge laboratories. Interns also receive a stipend to cover living expenses during their stay in Lausanne.
Application Deadline: Varies by program
How to Apply: Apply Here
5. WHO Internship Program
About WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. WHO internships provide students with the opportunity to work on a variety of global health initiatives, including disease prevention, policy development, and health research.
Eligibility and Benefits
To be eligible for the WHO Internship Program, candidates must be enrolled in a degree program or have recently graduated. Interns will work with health experts and gain invaluable insights into global health challenges and solutions. The internship lasts between 6 to 24 weeks, and interns are provided with a stipend to cover their living costs during the internship.
Application Deadline: Ongoing (check for specific dates)
How to Apply: Apply Here
How to Stand Out in Your Application
1. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
When applying for internships, your resume and cover letter should reflect not only your academic achievements but also your relevant skills and experience. Tailor your resume to match the specific requirements of the internship, focusing on any experience or coursework related to the role.
2. Prepare for Interviews
If selected for an interview, make sure you are well-prepared. Research the organization thoroughly, understand the projects you could be working on, and be ready to discuss your academic background and career goals. Practice common interview questions and emphasize your interest in the field.
3. Highlight Your Skills
Technical skills are highly valued, especially for internships in fields like engineering and computer science. Make sure your application highlights any technical competencies, such as programming languages, laboratory techniques, or data analysis tools.
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FAQs
1. What are the eligibility requirements for internships in Switzerland?
Eligibility varies by program, but most require that applicants be enrolled in a degree program or have recently graduated. Many programs prefer candidates in the later years of their studies (penultimate or final year). Some programs may require specific academic backgrounds (e.g., engineering, science, business).
2. Are internships in Switzerland paid?
Yes, many of the major internship programs in Switzerland, such as CERN and UBS, offer stipends or allowances to cover living expenses. The compensation varies, but it typically includes accommodation, travel allowances, and a monthly stipend ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 CHF.
3. How competitive are internships in Switzerland?
Internships in Switzerland, especially those with prestigious organizations like CERN, WHO, and UBS, are highly competitive. Applicants are expected to have strong academic records, relevant skills, and a well-prepared application. Early applications and attention to detail will help improve your chances.
