How to Get an Internship at ISRO: Strategies, Tips & More

Securing an internship at the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is a dream for many students pursuing a career in science and technology. With its prestigious reputation and invaluable work in space research, ISRO provides a unique platform for learning and growth. Internships at ISRO offer hands-on experience, exposure to cutting-edge technology, and the opportunity to work alongside some of the brightest minds in the field.

If you are aspiring for an internship at ISRO, you have landed in the right place. This guide on ‘how to get an internship at ISRO’ will help you understand the types of internships available, the strategies to secure one, and tips to enhance your application.

Types of ISRO Internships

ISRO offers internship opportunities according to different educational levels and requirements. Whether you are an undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD scholar, various bodies of ISRO offer internships for all. The following are the types of internships that you can research and apply for at ISRO:

1. Summer and Winter Internships

ISRO offers internships during the summer and winter breaks. These internships usually last 6-8 weeks and are designed to provide students with hands-on experience in various departments.

To secure a summer/winter internship, follow these quick tips: 

• Start Early: Begin your search and application process early to ensure you meet all deadlines.
• Check Deadlines: Note the specific application deadlines for summer and winter internships.
• Explore Departments: Look into different ISRO departments to find where your interests align.
• Network: Connect with past interns to understand their experience and gather tips.
• Prepare a Timeline: Plan your academic schedule to accommodate the internship period.

2. Dissertation and Research Internship

For students working on their dissertations or interested in research, ISRO provides opportunities to work on specific projects. These internships are usually longer (6-12 months) and involve in-depth research work under the guidance of ISRO scientists.

To secure a dissertation/research internship, follow these quick tips: 

• Detailed Proposal: Write a clear and detailed project proposal.
• Align with Faculty: Discuss your interest with your academic faculty to get support and guidance.
• Long-Term Planning: Prepare for a longer commitment and plan your academic schedule accordingly.
• Showcase Skills: Highlight any previous research experience or relevant skills in your application.
• Follow-Up: After applying, follow up with the respective ISRO center to ensure your application is received and considered.

Also Read: How To Become a Scientist In ISRO

Recruitment Process at ISRO

ISRO follows a strict recruitment process. Your academic qualifications, experience, and knowledge related to the internship are carefully evaluated. The selection is based on the needs of the research project, your academic achievements, and the availability of a supervisor whose requirements match your profile. Upon submitting your application, here’s what happens:

• An evaluation committee will assess your application carefully.
• You will receive an official confirmation email if your application is accepted.
• Interviews may be conducted in certain instances.

How to Get an Internship at ISRO: Hacks to Paving Way to a Bright Career

Let us delve into strategies for getting an internship at ISRO. These strategies are designed to assist students in securing internship opportunities and leveraging them to enhance their knowledge, skills, and expertise and pave the way for a successful career ahead.

1. Identify Your Areas of Interest

Find out which areas of ISRO’s work excite you the most. Whether it is satellite communications, propulsion systems, space exploration, etc., a clear focus will help you make your application effective. You can consider taking these steps to identify your interests: 

• Research ISRO Projects: Look at current and past projects to identify your interest areas.
• Consult Mentors: Talk to professors or industry professionals about your interests.
• Self-Assessment: Reflect on your skills and how they align with different ISRO departments.
• List Preferences: Make a list of preferred departments and projects.
• Explore Online Resources: Use ISRO’s official website and publications to understand their work better.

2. Check the Eligibility Criteria

ISRO offers internships across qualification levels, including undergrads, post-graduates, and doctoral degrees. Each internship program has specific eligibility criteria. Typically, ISRO internships are open to students in their third or fourth year of undergraduate studies or those pursuing a master’s degree in relevant fields.

The eligibility criteria for an internship at ISRO is as follows:

 i. Eligibility for Internship

Some of the common eligibility criteria for all internships at ISRO are as follows: 

• The internship is open to undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students who are Indian citizens.
• Students must be currently pursuing their degree from a recognized university or institution in India or abroad in the fields of science or technology. 

 Note: Depending on the ISRO project, your degree’s ‘subject’ requirements may change.

• Students who have completed their degree within the last 6 months can also apply.
• The internship will last for a maximum of 45 days or longer, depending on the research project. 
• Applicants must have scored a minimum of 60% aggregate or a CGPA of 6.32 out of 10.

ii. Eligibility for Student Trainee Program 

The student trainee program has different eligibility criteria based on educational qualifications. Here are the basic criteria for applying for this program at ISRO: 

Degree	Eligibility
Engineering (B.E./ B.Tech.)	The candidate should have completed the 6th semester of the engineering degree.
M.E./ M.Tech	The applicant should have completed the 1st semester.
B.Sc./ Diploma	Only final-year college students can apply.
M.Sc.	The student should have completed the 1st semester of their master’s program.
Ph.D	Scholars should have completed coursework.

3. Ensure You are Eligible

It is crucial to carefully review the eligibility criteria for the internship opening. ISRO strictly adheres to these criteria when shortlisting applications. You must ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements. 

If you do not meet the eligibility criteria, take steps to bridge the gap. This could involve completing necessary coursework, gaining relevant experience, or obtaining certifications. By implementing the following steps, you can work on your gaps and boost your chances of getting an internship at ISRO: 

• Skill Enhancement: Take additional courses to fill knowledge gaps.
• Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications that can strengthen your application.
• Practical Experience: Engage in projects or internships that add to your experience.
• Mentorship: Seek advice from mentors on how to improve your qualifications.
• Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest developments in your field.

4. Stay Abreast on Their Website for Any Opportunities

ISRO posts internship opportunities on its official website. Under the Department of Space (DOS), various centers post internship programs at different times of the year and as per the project requirements. 

Ensure to regularly check the ISRO careers page. Timely information is crucial, as the application window can be short. Moreover, applying promptly can showcase your passion and interest in this opportunity. You can also follow ISRO on social media and join forums and groups where such opportunities are discussed.

5. Prepare Your Application

The next step in our guide on how to get an internship at ISRO talks about preparing your applications. Most internship application processes at ISRO involve mentioning certain basic details regarding your educational qualifications, work experience, and uploading a few documents. The ISRO internship application should include the following documents: 

• A well-crafted resume
• A statement of purpose
• Recommendation letters 

With the help of these documents, you can highlight your academic achievements, relevant projects, and prior experience in your chosen area of interest. You can prepare an impressive application and further increase your chances of getting an internship at ISRO by following these tips:

• Internship Cover Letter: Craft a cover letter tailored to highlight why you are a good fit for ISRO.
• Resume: Ensure your resume is concise and highlights relevant experiences.
• Academic Transcripts: Include the most recent transcripts and ensure they are certified.
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR): Obtain a strong LOR from professors or mentors who know your work well.
• Project Proposal (for dissertations and research internships): Write a detailed and clear project proposal outlining your objectives and methodology.
• Proofread: Ensure all documents are free of errors and professionally formatted.

6. Choose an Internship Program That Aligns with Your Interests

Select the internship program that best aligns with your career goals and interests. ISRO offers numerous internship projects, including:

• Satellite Design and Development
• Rocket Propulsion
• Space Communication 
• Remote Sensing 
• Space Applications 
• Space Policy and Law 

Here are a few tips that you can follow when choosing your program: 

• Program Details: Read the details of each internship program carefully.
• Skill Match: Choose programs where your skills will be most beneficial.
• Future Goals: Align your choice with your long-term career goals.
• Seek Advice: Consult with mentors to select the most suitable program.
• Application Customization: Customize each application to fit the specific internship program.

7. Apply Carefully

Getting an internship at ISRO requires a strong application with precise details and documents. Remember to follow the application instructions meticulously. Additionally, take the time to thoroughly review your application for any errors or omissions, as these can lead to rejection. You should also ensure all required documents are submitted in the correct format.

Follow these tips to craft an ideal application: 

• Detailed Reading: Read the application instructions carefully.
• Checklist: Use a checklist to ensure you have included all required documents.
• Format Compliance: Ensure all documents are in the specified format.
• Submission Confirmation: Verify that your application has been received.
• Backup Copies: Keep copies of all submitted documents.

8. Prepare for the Interview

The ISRO centre at which you have applied for an internship will send an interview invitation after your application is shortlisted. You can ace the interview with thorough preparation and a clear understanding of the functioning and projects of the centre. Follow these tips to prepare for the interview adequately and get an internship at ISRO: 

• Mock Interviews: Practice with mock interviews to build confidence.
• Practice Common Questions: Prepare answers for common interview questions, highlighting your skills, achievements, and expertise.
• Review Basics: Refresh your knowledge of fundamental concepts in your field.
• Know ISRO: Be well-informed about ISRO’s recent projects and achievements.
• Personal Experience: Be ready to discuss your past projects and experiences.
• Questions to Ask: Prepare insightful questions to ask the interviewers.

9. Accept the Offer and Complete the Formalities

When you receive the offer letter, read it carefully and complete any formalities required. This may include background checks, the submission of additional documents, and other administrative processes.

Here are some tips that you can implement to complete the offer letter acceptance process efficiently: 

• Prompt Response: Respond to the offer as soon as possible, well before the deadline.
• Document Preparation: Gather and submit any additional documents required.
• Understand Terms: Read and understand the terms of the internship.
• Communication: Maintain clear communication with the ISRO center.
• Formalities Checklist: Follow a checklist to ensure all formalities are completed.
• Stay Organized: Keep all documents and correspondence well-organized.

How to Apply for an ISRO Internship?

It is important to read the eligibility criteria before applying for an internship. Each center at ISRO has its own unique criteria for applying. Follow these steps to apply for an ISRO internship:

Step 1: Choose the area of science or technology you are interested in and find a suitable center under the Department of Space (DOS) at ISRO that matches your interest.

Step 2: Look up the specific requirements and application dates for your chosen DOS centre. Here are some tips to easily find this information:

• National Remote Sensing Center (NRSC) – Go to their website, click on Training & Outreach, then Student Projects
• Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC) – Navigate to their website, click on the Students tab
• Space Applications Center (SAC) – Browse their website, click on Work with SAC, then Research, Training & Internship 
• UR Rao Satellite Center, Bengaluru – Go to their website, click on HRD, then Students Endeavor
• Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Dehradun (IIRS) – Visit their website, click on Notice Board, then External Projects/Internships.
• Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) – Navigate to their website, click on the Opportunities tab
• National Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL), Tirupati – Look up their website, click on Work with NARL, then Students Projects.

Step 3: Prepare the required documents, such as the cover letter, resume, statement of purpose, and a letter of recommendation from your college dean. Keep these documents organized and highlight your relevant skills and achievements.

Step 4: Prepare a draft of your project proposal. Ensure it fits with the research focus of the DOS center you are applying to.

Step 5: Check how to submit your application for your chosen DOS center.

Conclusion

This guide on ‘how to get an internship at ISRO’ has outlined the strategies that you can use to increase your chances of interning at one of the world’s leading space research organizations. ISRO offers the opportunity for interns to work on ongoing projects, learn from experts, and gain valuable work experience. With the right preparation and the right attitude, you can become a successful ISRO intern. You can check out the Prime Minister Internship Scheme to explore opportunities based on your area of interest and qualifications.

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