DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026 – Complete Details, Eligibility, Stipend & Application Process
The DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026 is a prestigious opportunity offered by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for meritorious students who want to gain real-time exposure in advanced defence research. This internship is conducted by the Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), Hyderabad, and is specially designed for final-year engineering and science students across India.
This program not only provides hands-on technical experience but also helps students build a strong foundation in research-based careers in defence technology.
About DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026
The DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026 aims to engage talented students from engineering and science backgrounds in cutting-edge research and development activities. Selected interns will get the chance to work with experts in high-energy systems, advanced electronics, mechanical systems, computing technologies, and applied sciences.
A total of 20 internship positions have been announced for this recruitment cycle. The internship is open to students from recognized Indian universities or institutions approved by AICTE or UGC.
Total Vacancies under DRDO CHESS Internship 2026
The distribution of seats for the DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026 is as follows:
- Physics / Applied Optics – 5 Posts
- Mechanical Engineering – 5 Posts
- Electronics / Instrumentation / Electrical / ECE – 5 Posts
- Computer Science Engineering – 3 Posts
- Chemical Engineering – 2 Posts
Total Vacancies: 20
Eligibility Criteria for DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026
Candidates must carefully check the eligibility requirements before applying for the DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026:
1. Academic Qualification
Applicants must be in the final year of a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate program, such as:
- B.Tech / B.E.
- B.Sc / M.Sc
- M.Tech (relevant disciplines)
The program must be from a recognized university or institution approved by AICTE/UGC.
2. Minimum Academic Performance
- Minimum 75% marks OR 7.5 CGPA in the qualifying degree is mandatory.
3. Age Limit
- Maximum age limit: 27 years
Only candidates fulfilling all criteria will be considered for selection in the DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026.
Internship Stipend Details
One of the most attractive features of the DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026 is its stipend structure.
- Selected interns will receive ₹5,000 per month
- A minimum attendance of 15 days per month is compulsory
- Total stipend of ₹30,000 will be provided in two installments:
- ₹15,000 after completion of 3 months
- ₹15,000 after completion of 6 months
This ensures financial support along with valuable technical exposure in defence research.
Selection Process for DRDO CHESS Internship 2026
The selection process for the DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026 is based on:
- Academic Merit
- Minimum 75% marks or 7.5 CGPA is required
- Recommendation Letter
- A valid recommendation or reference letter from:
- Principal OR
- Director OR
- Head of Department (HOD)
- A valid recommendation or reference letter from:
There is no written exam or interview in most cases; selection is primarily merit-based.
How to Apply for DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026
The application process is completely offline. Candidates must follow the steps carefully:
Step 1: Read the Official Notification
Go through the official DRDO CHESS internship notification carefully before applying.
Step 2: Download Application Form
Download the application form from the official DRDO website:
👉 drdo.gov.in/drdo/careers
Step 3: Fill Application Form
- Enter all details accurately
- Avoid errors in academic or personal information
Step 4: Attach Required Documents
Attach self-attested copies of:
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Signature
- Identity proof (Aadhaar/PAN/College ID)
- Academic certificates and mark sheets
- Recommendation letter
Step 5: Final Verification
Before submission, ensure all details and documents are correct.
Step 6: Submit Application
Send the completed application form via:
- Speed Post / Registered Post
to the address mentioned in the official notification.
Important Dates for DRDO CHESS Internship 2026
- Application Process: Ongoing
- Last Date to Apply: 11 May 2026
Candidates must ensure that the application reaches the office before the deadline. Late applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Why Apply for DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026?
The DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026 is not just an internship—it is a career-building opportunity. Here’s why students should apply:
- Exposure to real defence research projects
- Work under top scientists and engineers
- Hands-on technical learning experience
- Monthly stipend support
- Strong addition to resume for future government and research jobs
Final Words
The DRDO CHESS Paid Internship 2026 is an excellent opportunity for final-year students who want to step into the world of defence research and advanced engineering systems. With limited seats and high competition, candidates are advised to apply early and ensure all eligibility conditions are met.
This internship can be a strong stepping stone for students aiming for careers in DRDO, ISRO, PSU, or other top research organizations in India.