Exciting Paid Internship Opportunity at DRDO for Engineering and Science Students

The DRDO is inviting applications for its 2026 Paid Internship Program, aimed at engineering and science students. This six-month internship at the CHESS laboratory in Hyderabad offers a stipend of ₹30,000 and valuable experience in defense research. Eligible candidates must be in their final year of study, with a minimum of 75% marks. The application process is offline, with a deadline of May 11, 2026. This opportunity is ideal for students looking to enhance their careers in government or private sectors. For more details, visit the official DRDO website.

By Ambika Singh May 2, 2026, 10:06 IST

DRDO Internship 2026 Overview

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is offering a paid internship for engineering and science students eager to gain hands-on experience while studying. The Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), a leading DRDO laboratory in Hyderabad, is currently accepting applications for its 2026 Paid Internship Program. This initiative is especially advantageous for outstanding students aiming to enhance their skills in defense research and pursue a successful career in either the public or private sectors.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To qualify for this internship, candidates must meet the following requirements:

1. Enrollment in an undergraduate (UG) or postgraduate (PG) program in Engineering or Science from an AICTE or UGC recognized institution.

2. Candidates should be in their final academic year.

3. A minimum of 75% marks or a 7.5 CGPA in the previous semester is required.

4. The age limit for applicants is set at 28 years.

Internship Duration and Stipend

The DRDO internship spans a total of 6 months, conducted offline at the CHESS laboratory in Hyderabad. Participants will receive a stipend of ₹30,000, distributed in two installments, contingent upon maintaining an attendance of at least 15 days each month. Upon successful completion, interns will also receive a Completion Certificate.

Application Process

The application must be submitted offline. Interested candidates should follow these steps:

1. Download the application form from the official DRDO website: drdo.gov.in/drdo/careers.

2. Complete the form accurately.

3. Include all required documents.

4. Send the completed application via Speed Post, clearly marking the envelope with "Application for Paid Internship" and the relevant Branch Code.

Important Dates

The application deadline for the DRDO internship is May 11, 2026. Candidates selected for the program will be informed by May 20, 2026, with the internship set to begin on June 3, 2026.

Significance of the DRDO Internship

This internship offers more than just a stipend and a certificate; it provides invaluable practical experience in the defense research sector. It is a remarkable opportunity for students aspiring to build a future career, whether within DRDO, other government organizations, or the technical field. Engineering and Science students in their final year with a minimum aggregate score of 75% are encouraged to apply before the deadline. Applications submitted after May 11, 2026, will not be considered. For additional information, please refer to the official DRDO website.