Introduction to ISRO Programs
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) offers various opportunities for students to engage with India's space program. These include internships, apprenticeships, and hackathons across its research centers. This page is a central resource for understanding these programs, their requirements, and how to apply.
Whether you are an undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD student, ISRO provides avenues to gain hands-on experience in space technology, remote sensing, and scientific research. This guide details the different programs and their specific criteria.
ISRO Programs At A Glance
| Program/Lab/Event | Stipend | Duration | Eligibility | Typical Timeline |
|---|
| IIRS ISRO Internship | None | 45 days to 1 year | UG/PG/PhD (Science/Technology), Min 60% or 6.32 CGPA | Applications close March 31 & October 31 annually |
| Bharatiya Antariksh Hackathon | Possible internship consideration | 30 hours (hackathon) | UG/PG/PhD students, Research Scholars (India only) | Registrations close July 1 annually |
| ISRO NESAC JRF/Research Scientist | JRF: ₹37,000 + HRA; Research Scientist: ₹56,100 + DA + HRA | Not stated | JRF: M.Sc./M.Tech/B.Tech + NET/GATE. Research Scientist: M.Tech/M.E./M.Sc. + 1 year exp. | Walk-in Interviews in March annually |
| ISRO NRSC Apprenticeship | Graduate Apprentice: ₹9,000; Technician Apprentice: ₹8,000 | 1 year | Graduate: B.E./B.Tech/Degree in relevant field. Technician: Diploma in Engg. | Applications close September annually |
| ISRO VSSC Internship | Not stated | Not stated | Higher education in Science/Technology | Not stated |
| ISRO LPSC Internship | Not stated | Not stated | B.Tech, M.Tech, Chemistry students | Applications close March annually |
| ISRO URSC Internship | Not stated | Not stated | Students as per NEP 2020 guidelines | Not stated |
| ISRO MCF Summer Internship | Not stated | Not stated | UG/PG/PhD (Engineering/Science) | Not stated |
IIRS ISRO Internship
The Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS) in Dehradun offers an academic internship for students in Science and Technology. This program provides experience in space research and geoinformatics. It is a no-stipend opportunity, focusing on project work and training.
Eligibility for IIRS ISRO Internship
- UG, PG, or PhD students from a recognized university in India or abroad.
- Minimum 60% aggregate or 6.32 CGPA on a 10-point scale.
- Indian citizen.
- Duration: Minimum 45 days, maximum 1 year.
For detailed eligibility, visit the IIRS ISRO Internship 2026 article.
Bharatiya Antariksh Hackathon
This national-level competition by ISRO and Hack2skill challenges students to solve real-world space-tech problems. Participants work in teams on solutions related to satellite imagery, AI, climate analysis, and exoplanet detection. Top performers may receive mentorship from ISRO scientists and possible internship consideration.
Eligibility for Bharatiya Antariksh Hackathon
- Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and PhD students, and Research Scholars.
- Teams of 3 to 4 members.
- Students from India only.
Learn more about the hackathon challenges and participation at Bharatiya Antariksh Hackathon 2026.
ISRO NESAC Research Roles
The North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) offers Research Scientist and Junior Research Fellow (JRF) roles. These positions involve applying space technology to regional problems in remote sensing, GIS, satellite communication, and atmospheric science. Selection is via a walk-in interview process.
Eligibility for ISRO NESAC Roles
- JRF: First Class M.Sc., M.Tech, B.Tech, or equivalent, plus valid NET, GATE, JAM, or JEST. Age limit: 28 years.
- Research Scientist: First Class M.Tech, M.E., M.Sc., or equivalent, plus at least one year of relevant experience. Age limit: 28-30 years depending on degree.
For full details on roles and interview process, see ISRO NESAC Walk-in Interview 2026.
ISRO NRSC Apprenticeship
The National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), Hyderabad, offers Graduate Apprentice, Technician Apprentice, and General Stream Apprentice positions. These one-year apprenticeships provide training under the Apprenticeship Act 1961, with stipends for eligible candidates.
Eligibility for ISRO NRSC Apprenticeship
- Graduate Apprentice: B.E./B.Tech or a degree in a relevant field.
- Technician Apprentice: Diploma in Engineering.
- Stipend: Graduate Apprentice ₹9,000, Technician Apprentice ₹8,000.
Find more information on the application process in the ISRO NRSC Apprenticeship 2025 article.
ISRO VSSC Internship
The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) provides structured internship opportunities for students in science and technology. Managed by the Human Resource Development Division, these internships expose students to India's space research and development activities.
For eligibility and application details, refer to the VSSC ISRO Internship 2025 guide.
ISRO LPSC Internship
The Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) invites B.Tech, M.Tech, and Chemistry students for internships. This program offers a chance to work on real-time space propulsion projects and R&D activities under ISRO scientists.
More details are available in the ISRO LPSC Internship 2025 article.
ISRO URSC Internship
The U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), Bengaluru, offers internships aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This program allows students to work with ISRO scientists on space research and engineering projects.
For further information, visit the ISRO URSC Internship 2025 page.
ISRO MCF Summer Internship/Project Program
The ISRO Master Control Facility (MCF) offers a summer internship and project program for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students in engineering and science. Participants gain experience in space operations, satellite tracking, and mission support.
Details are provided in the ISRO Summer Internship/Project Program 2025 (MCF) article.
How to Apply for ISRO Internships
The application process varies by center and program, but generally involves these steps:
- Check Eligibility: Review the specific academic and percentage requirements for your chosen program.
- Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents like No Objection Certificates (NOC), recommendation letters, academic transcripts, and valid ID proof.
- Online Application: Most programs require online submission through the respective ISRO center's portal. Fill out all details accurately.
- Upload Supporting Files: Attach all required documents to your online application.
- Meet Deadlines: Submit your application before the stated deadline. Late applications are not considered.
- Await Selection: Selection processes vary, often based on academic merit and project relevance. Selected candidates usually receive a confirmation via email.
Deadlines for the 2026-27 Cycle
| Program | Deadline |
|---|
| IIRS ISRO Internship (Spring Cycle) | 2026-03-31 |
| Bharatiya Antariksh Hackathon | 2026-07-01 |
| ISRO NESAC Walk-in Interviews | 5 March 2026 & 6 March 2026 (Reporting: 08:30 AM) |
| ISRO NRSC Apprenticeship | Next cycle expected around September |
| ISRO VSSC Internship | Not announced yet |
| ISRO LPSC Internship | Next cycle expected around March |
| ISRO URSC Internship | Not announced yet |
| ISRO MCF Summer Internship | Not announced yet |
| IIRS-ISRO External Student Internship (Autumn Cycle) | 2026-10-31 |