CERN-Solvay student camps

What are the CERN-Solvay student camps?

The CERN-Solvay student camps are week-long residential camps designed for high school students aged 16 and above who are curious about science. They offer a unique opportunity to experience life at the world’s largest particle physics laboratory and explore what a career in science is really like. Each camp welcomes 30 students from around the world to CERN's campus. Participants engage in a range of exciting activities, including:

  • conducting hands-on experiments in Science Gateway
  • visiting research facilities across CERN's campus
  • attending lectures and Q&A sessions with CERN and Solvay scientists
  • exploring scientific careers and meeting inspiring role models
  • delving into CERN's research laboratories in small groups
  • bonding with like-minded peers from diverse cultural backgrounds.

 

Is there a camp this year?

Yes! We are thrilled to announce that a new CERN-Solvay student camp will take place from Sunday 5 October to Saturday 11 October 2025. This marks the fourth edition of the camp, following successful runs in October 2023, May 2024 and October 2024.

 

Who is eligible?

To apply to the camp, you need to:

  • have obtained the digital certificate of completion of the online physics course of the CERN-Solvay Education Programme (see the dedicated page)
  • have a good knowledge of English (as the entire programme is in English).
  • be 16 years old or above and enrolled in high school when submitting your application.

In particular, please note the following. You are not eligible if you turn 16 shortly after the applications close. You are eligible if you graduate from high school shortly after the applications close. No exceptions can be made regarding any eligibility criteria.

 

What costs are associated with attending one of the CERN-Solvay student camps?

  • There is no participation fee. Accommodation and meals will be provided free of charge on CERN's campus for all selected students. However, selected students are expected to arrange and finance their trip to and from CERN on their own.
  • There are limited funds available to support a small number of students by means of a travel grant. Information regarding this funding will be made available as requested by students accepted into one of the CERN-Solvay student camps.

 

When and how can you apply?

  • We will accept applications between Thursday 10 April, 16:00 CEST and Sunday 25 May, 23:59 CEST. We will announce the results around 1 July.
  • You must apply here, through our online application form, which you can only access if you have obtained the digital certificate of the online course of the CERN-Solvay Education Programme.
  • If you're having trouble opening an unfinished application, please download the certificate again before attempting to return to the form. 
  • The application form consists of different sections:
    • Information about you
    • Information about your school
    • Questions about your motivation
    • Upload of a 1-minute video
    • Upload of one reference letter
    • Upload of your latest grade report