WebsiteEPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne)
The EPFL Excellence in Engineering (E3) Program is a summer internship for BSc and MSc students. It gives students the chance to work in research at EPFL, one of the top universities in Switzerland. The program is for students interested in science, technology, and engineering. It provides real experience in a research lab and helps students prepare for future careers in science.
About the Scholarship
The E3 Program is a paid internship. Students will receive a monthly allowance to cover living and accommodation costs in Switzerland. The program lasts 8 to 12 weeks during the summer. Students will work with a research group, attend workshops, and participate in social events organized by the E3 program.
Host Country
The program is held in Switzerland. Switzerland is known for high-quality education, innovation, and safety. It has a mix of modern cities and natural beauty. International students enjoy a safe, multicultural environment while studying and working in research.
Host University
The internship takes place at EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne). EPFL is a world-class university in engineering, science, and technology. It has over 100 research laboratories and offers a friendly and supportive environment for students.
Scholarship Type
This is a summer internship program with a monthly allowance. It is not a degree-granting scholarship but provides financial support to cover living costs during the internship.
Degree
The program is open to BSc and MSc students. PhD students are not eligible. Students must be enrolled in their program during the entire internship.
Eligibility Criteria
Must be enrolled in a Bachelor or Master program.
Must have completed at least the second year of Bachelor studies.
Students must have a strong GPA and academic record.
Students interested in pursuing research or PhD studies are preferred.
Fields of Study
The program is open to any engineering, science, or technology field. Applicants must select up to three research topics and may choose up to three preferred labs. Examples of fields include:
Artificial Intelligence
Robotics
Mechanical Design
Bioengineering
Data Science
Nanotechnology
Photonics
Energy and Sustainability
Over 100 laboratories participate in the program, offering diverse research opportunities.
Scholarship Benefits
Monthly allowance to cover living and accommodation costs (about 1800 CHF/month).
Travel expenses may be reimbursed by the host lab.
Participation in workshops and social events.
Opportunity to gain hands-on research experience in a top university.
Networking with researchers and other interns from around the world.
Required Documents
CV (PDF, max 5 MB)
Academic transcripts (English or French, or translated into English)
Motivation letter / Statement of purpose
Passport or national ID scan
Optional: Bachelor diploma, recommendation letters, or other documents
Application Process
Open the E3 application portal.
Fill in personal details and academic information.
Upload required documents in PDF format.
Select up to three research domains and optionally three preferred labs.
Application portal closes November 1st, 2025 at 23:55 AoE.
Online interviews are held after the application deadline until early March 2026.
Selection results are communicated around mid-March 2026.
Selection Process
Applications are screened by host labs.
Top candidates are invited for online interviews.
Selection is based on GPA, academic performance, laboratory experience, and motivation.
Only the top students are selected due to high competition.
Tips to Succeed
Apply early and carefully select your research domains.
Write a clear statement of purpose explaining your goals and lab preferences.
Highlight your academic achievements and research experience.
Be ready for online interviews with potential host labs.
Choose labs that match your interests to increase your chances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will I get financial support? Yes, a monthly allowance and partial travel reimbursement.
Do I need English certificates? No, but you can submit them if available.
Can I choose my project? Projects are assigned by faculty based on your interests.
Do I need a passport? Yes, or a national ID if no passport is available.
Are PhD students eligible? No, only Bachelor and Master students.
Is accommodation provided? Students find their own housing; support and suggestions are offered.
Why Choose This Scholarship
The E3 program gives students a unique chance to work in a top research environment. It improves research skills, builds networks, and strengthens CVs for future studies or PhD programs. Interns also enjoy workshops, social events, and a supportive international community.
Career and Future Opportunities
Gain valuable research experience.
Prepare for PhD programs or research-based careers.
Build connections with professors and international students.
Learn practical skills that improve employment opportunities in engineering, science, and technology.
Student Experiences
Past E3 interns highlight the value of hands-on research experience. Many interns continue in PhD programs or join leading research labs. They appreciate the chance to work on real projects and meet peers from different countries.
Contact Information
For inquiries, use the E3 program contact through the EPFL website or email the program office. All communications are handled confidentially.
The EPFL Excellence in Engineering (E3) Program 2026 is an excellent opportunity for motivated BSc and MSc students. It provides research experience, financial support, and a chance to be part of an international community at a top Swiss university. Apply before November 1st, 2025, to start your journey in engineering research.
