DoS/ISRO Internship &
Student Project Trainee Schemes
Everything students need to know about ISRO Internship and Student Project opportunities including eligibility, duration, application process, documents, guidelines and important information.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), operating under the Department of Space (DoS), is India's premier space agency leading national satellite launch vehicle, communication, and planetary exploration programs.
Trainees at ISRO work alongside premier scientists and engineers in advanced laboratories, gaining practical experience in systems engineering, data analysis, and hardware development.
To address diverse student needs, the Department of Space offers a short-term Internship Scheme for general exposure and a curriculum-focused Student Project Trainee Scheme for final-year dissertations.
These offline positions are open to qualified STEM candidates whose applications are formally recommended by their parent educational institutions and matching the host centre's project bandwidth.
Understanding ISRO Student Opportunities
1. The Internship Scheme
The Internship Scheme is designed as a short-term observational and research exposure program. Its primary goal is to orient students toward the practical application of space sciences, space technology, and associated engineering domains. Trainees get the opportunity to observe laboratory workflows, understand testing systems, and assist in minor data analysis or system mapping. This scheme is ideal for students seeking initial industry exposure during summer or winter breaks, helping them align their academic studies with real-world scientific operations.
2. The Student Project Trainee Scheme
The Student Project Trainee Scheme is specifically structured for students who must complete a mandatory academic project or thesis as part of their degree curriculum (e.g., final-year B.Tech projects, M.Tech dissertations, or PhD coursework requirements). Trainees under this scheme are integrated into active project groups at ISRO. They work on a designated research topic under the joint supervision of an ISRO scientist and a faculty member from their home institution. This requires a longer, more rigorous commitment to deliver measurable outcomes.
ISRO Internship Scheme
A detailed breakdown of the entry pathways, durations, academic cutoffs, and learning expectations for short-term internships.
Eligibility
- • Indian citizens enrolled in recognized universities (India or abroad).
- • Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and PhD students.
- • Science & Technology disciplines.
- • Recent graduates (within 6 months of completing degree) are also eligible.
Academic Cutoff
Strict academic minimum parameters are enforced by all screening panels:
Duration
Internships are structured to fit within standard academic holiday schedules:
Applications requesting extended durations are typically redirected to the Project Scheme.
Purpose
- • Practical industry exposure in a premium national space laboratory.
- • Orientation on specialized equipment, cleanroom protocols, and safety norms.
- • Foundational academic research and computational training.
ISRO Student Project Trainee Scheme
Structured specifically for final-year dissertations, theses, and mandatory curriculum project requirements under joint academic supervision.
| Degree Level | Academic Eligibility Milestone | Minimum Required Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering (B.E. / B.Tech) | Must have completed the 6th Semester of coursework. | 45 Days |
| Postgraduate Engineering (M.E. / M.Tech) | Must have completed the 1st Semester of coursework. | 120 Days |
| B.Sc. / Diploma Programs | Must be in the Final Year of their program. | 45 Days |
| M.Sc. Programs | Must have completed the 1st Semester of coursework. | 120 Days |
| Doctoral Level (PhD) | Must have successfully completed all core coursework. | 30 Months |
Mandatory Academic Benchmark: All students applying for academic project work within DoS/ISRO centres must possess an aggregate score of minimum 60% or a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 6.32 on a scale of 10. This criterion is strictly non-negotiable across all degree levels.
Step-by-Step Application Process
A detailed visual timeline illustrating how candidates should select a centre, organize documents, and submit applications.
Check Your Eligibility
Verify that your current course level, completed semesters, and academic aggregates strictly align with the requirements (min 60% or 6.32 CGPA). Ensure your remaining college duration matches the program limits.
Select a Suitable ISRO Centre
Identify which ISRO facility matches your domain. For instance, LPSC handles liquid propulsion, SAC focuses on space applications, VSSC leads launch vehicle development, and IIRS coordinates remote sensing.
Prepare Mandatory Documents
Compile your marksheets, college transcripts, recent photographs, curriculum vitae, and government-issued identity cards. Format all files according to individual centre application specifications.
Obtain Institutional Recommendation
Request an official Bonafide Certificate and a formal Letter of Recommendation/NOC signed by the Head of Department (HOD), Principal, or Director of your university, indicating approved credit transfers.
Submit Application to the Centre
Send your application packages along with the endorsement documents to the HRD group of the target centre. Some centres use dedicated web forms, while others require hard copy files by post.
Application Scrutiny
The respective Centre's committee evaluates all submissions. Candidates are graded on their academic scores, coursework completion, project scope feasibility, and supervisor availability.
Final Selection & Onboarding
Successful candidates receive an official offer letter specifying their ISRO guide, project details, and security clearance instructions. Note that onboarding depends strictly on available project vacancies.
Internship / Project Begins
Trainees report to the designated facility, undergo mandatory security briefings, obtain entry passes, and begin their research projects under the direct supervision of an assigned scientist.
Official Centre Portal Directories
Direct links to student opportunity coordination branches across primary ISRO locations
U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC)
Location: Bengaluru, KarnatakaSpace Applications Centre (SAC)
Location: Ahmedabad, GujaratNorth Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC)
Location: Shillong, MeghalayaMaster Control Facility (MCF)
Location: Hassan, KarnatakaVikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC)
Location: Thiruvananthapuram, KeralaIndian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS)
Location: Dehradun, UttarakhandLiquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC)
Location: Valiamala & BengaluruISRO Inertial Systems Unit (IISU)
Location: Thiruvananthapuram, KeralaNational Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC)
Location: Hyderabad, TelanganaISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC)
Location: Mahendragiri, Tamil NaduNational Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL)
Location: Gadanki, Andhra PradeshPhysical Research Laboratory (PRL)
Location: Ahmedabad, GujaratSatish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR
Location: Sriharikota, Andhra PradeshISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC)
Location: Bengaluru, KarnatakaDocuments Required for Application
Applicants must compile the following documents to ensure their application is successfully reviewed and processed.
Bonafide Certificate
An official certificate issued by your college registry or HOD, certifying that you are currently enrolled as a regular student and specifying your branch and semester.
Recommendation Letter (NOC)
A formal endorsement or No-Objection Certificate from the head of your department, stating the institution's approval of your participation in the internship.
Student Identity Card
A clear, scanned copy of your valid photo identification card issued by your parent institution or university.
Government ID Proof
An official, government-issued photo identity document such as Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID Card, or Driving License for security screening.
Academic Transcripts
Official semester marks sheets, grade sheets, or transcripts of all completed semesters validating your 60% or 6.32 CGPA score.
Resume / CV
A professional, concise CV detailing your educational background, core technical skills, prior projects, publications, and certifications.
Passport Size Photographs
Recent, high-resolution passport-size color photographs taken against a plain background for official record creation.
Project Proposal
A detailed synopsis or project proposal outlining your area of interest (necessary only for Project Trainee applications).
Institution Approval
A signed consent or undertaking from your college authority outlining compliance with the rules and guidelines of the respective ISRO Centre.
Important Guidelines & Policies
Review the official rules, security specifications, and administrative limitations mandated by the Department of Space.
Project Availability & Selection Criteria
Selection of students is strictly competitive. Applications are scrutinized by a committee at the concerned ISRO Centre, and approval depends on the suitability of the candidate, availability of projects matching the candidate's background, laboratory infrastructure, and the willingness of a scientist to act as a supervisor. Meeting the eligibility requirements is a prerequisite but does not guarantee selection.
Financial Policy
Both the Internship Scheme and the Student Project Trainee Scheme are entirely non-stipendiary. ISRO does not provide any financial assistance, stipend, travel allowance, or payment of any kind to student trainees. All costs associated with travel, food, local commuting, and living must be borne entirely by the student or their parent institution.
Accommodation & Canteen Services
Residential facilities are generally not provided by ISRO due to limited campus capacity. Under exceptional circumstances, some centres may provide hostel or guest house rooms on a strictly chargeable basis, subject to availability. Students are allowed to use the campus canteen facilities during their working hours on a direct payment basis.
Security Protocols & Confidentiality Rules
Because of the strategic nature of space installations, student access is strictly limited to unclassified areas and data. Trainees are prohibited from entering high-security sections, command rooms, or using cameras and external storage devices inside the premises. Trainees must strictly follow the safety and confidentiality guidelines of the centre.
Completion Certificates & Publication Rights
A certificate of participation is issued to the student only after successful completion of the training period, submission of the final project report, and endorsement by the ISRO supervisor. Students are strictly prohibited from publishing any research articles, reports, patents, or sharing project data in public domains without obtaining written, official permission from the director or concerned authority of the ISRO Centre.
Professional Benefits of the Program
Engaging in these schemes provides professional advantages that significantly enhance a student's career trajectory.
Official ISRO Experience
Add an impressive project to your portfolio, showcasing work conducted within India's premier national space agency.
Completion Certificate
Receive a signed and validated certificate from the HRD Division, verifying your technical and research contributions.
Research Exposure
Work with professional methodologies, accessing state-of-the-art computational systems and standard laboratory facilities.
Hands-on Learning
Bridge the gap between theoretical academic studies and practical system deployment under guidance.
Work with Scientists
Collaborate directly with leading scientists and research groups, gaining insight into national project pipelines.
Practical Knowledge
Acquire expertise in advanced data processing, simulation software, precision hardware calibration, and scripting.
Academic Growth
Significantly elevate the quality of your mandatory college projects, ensuring higher marks and research credentials.
Career Enhancement
Stand out to recruitment committees and global universities during post-graduation admissions or technical interviews.
Target Branches & Disciplines
A list of academic disciplines and engineering domains that align with ISRO's operational mandates.
Project Alignment Disclaimer
While the aforementioned fields represent the general requirements, final selection is strictly dependent on the active research projects running at the respective centre. For example, remote sensing applications are primarily handled at IIRS and NRSC, whereas propulsion mechanics are coordinated at LPSC and IPRC. Candidates should align their applications to match the exact profile of the target centre.
Critical Information for Applicants
Before submitting your files, carefully review these essential considerations.
No Guarantee of Employment
Completing an internship or project training program at any DoS/ISRO centre does not guarantee any future employment, placement preference, or hiring advantage in the organization. Recruitment is conducted strictly through separate national exams (such as ICRB).
Highly Competitive Selection
The quantity of available student slots is extremely limited compared to the thousands of applications received each year. Screening panels prioritize academic standing, technical aptitude, and the strength of the recommendations.
Institution Pathway is Mandatory
Direct individual applications without official recommendation letters and bonafide certificates from the parent college are automatically rejected. All trainee slots must be formally coordinated with the college registrar or department head.
Regular Centre Website Checks
Since call notifications, vacancies, application deadlines, and submission formats vary by individual centre and are updated regularly, students must monitor the specific HRD directories of their preferred locations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find detailed answers to common queries regarding the application criteria, requirements, and regulations.
No, the DoS/ISRO student training initiatives, which include both the Internship Scheme and the Student Project Trainee Scheme, are entirely non-stipendiary. Students will not receive any financial remuneration, salary, stipend, or daily allowance from the Department of Space or the host centre.
Additionally, all personal costs, including travel, food, local transport, and lodging, must be borne entirely by the student or their parent university.
No, first-year undergraduate students are not eligible to apply. The scientific and technical nature of the work at ISRO requires foundational coursework and practical skills that are usually covered in the later years of a degree program.
Undergraduates in engineering must have completed their 6th semester to apply for projects, and short-term internships typically prioritize pre-final and final-year students who have already gained technical project experience.
Second-year undergraduate engineering students (those in their 3rd or 4th semesters) are not eligible for the Student Project Trainee Scheme, which requires completing the 6th semester. However, second-year students in shorter degree programs (such as 3-year B.Sc. or Diploma courses) who are in their final year may apply.
For the short-term Internship Scheme, second-year engineering students with exceptional academic records and solid foundational coding or hardware skills may occasionally be considered, though preference remains with pre-final year students.
The program is open to Indian citizens currently pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral courses in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) at recognized universities in India or abroad.
Additionally, students who have completed their degree within the last six months prior to the date of application may apply for the Internship Scheme, provided they meet all academic criteria.
Generally, accommodation is not provided to trainees due to limited campus capacity. Under exceptional circumstances, some centres may offer hostel or guest house lodging on a strictly chargeable basis, subject to availability.
Students should prepare to arrange their own private lodging outside the campus boundaries for the duration of their internship.
Yes, an official completion certificate is issued by the Human Resources Development Division (HRDD) of the respective ISRO Centre.
To receive the certificate, the student must complete their approved training duration, submit a comprehensive project report, and obtain an endorsement from their assigned ISRO guide.
Yes, students from recognized private colleges and universities are eligible, provided their institution is recognized by UGC/AICTE, and they meet the minimum academic criterion of 60% marks or a 6.32 CGPA.
The application must be officially recommended by the head of the institution or department.
Yes, Indian citizens pursuing their studies in recognized foreign universities are eligible. They must fulfill the same academic criteria, submit necessary bonafide documents, and undergo security screening.
The Internship Scheme is a short-term program lasting a maximum of 45 days.
For the Student Project Trainee Scheme, the minimum duration varies by degree: 45 days for BE/BTech and BSc/Diploma, 120 days for ME/MTech and MSc, and up to 30 months for PhD scholars.
Selection is highly competitive and is based on a combination of factors: academic merit (marks/CGPA), alignment of the student's background with ongoing projects at the centre, availability of a scientist to act as a supervisor, and infrastructural capacity. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee selection.
Program Quick Summary
A quick-reference summary of the key attributes of the ISRO Student Opportunities.
Internship & Student Project
UG / PG / PhD Students
Min 60% Marks / 6.32 CGPA
45 Days Maximum
Offline (At Respective Centre)
Yes (Issued by HRDD)
No (Non-Stipendiary)
Official Institutional NOC
Official Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only. Campus Unite is not affiliated with ISRO or the Department of Space. Eligibility criteria, application process and programme details may change over time. Applicants are advised to verify the latest information from the respective ISRO Centre before applying.