NITI Aayog & ISRO Student Internship 2026: Application Process
- Toshif Pathan
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
In 2026, the landscape of Indian governance and space research has become more accessible than ever to the youth. The NITI Aayog & ISRO Student Internship 2026 program represents a prestigious bridge between academic learning and high-level national contribution. Whether you are interested in shaping public policy at India’s premier think tank or contributing to cutting-edge space missions at ISRO, these internships offer an unparalleled platform to boost your career.
Securing a spot in these programs requires a deep understanding of the NITI Aayog & ISRO Student Internship 2026: Application Process, as both organizations follow strict timelines and high eligibility standards. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough of the 2026 cycle to help you navigate the requirements successfully.
Focus Keyword: NITI Aayog & ISRO Student Internship 2026
1. NITI Aayog Internship 2026: Shaping National Policy
NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) provides a unique opportunity for students to work under various verticals such as Agriculture, Data Management, Economics, and Science & Technology.
Eligibility Criteria for NITI Aayog 2026
Undergraduate Students: Must have completed at least the 4th semester (2nd year) and secured 85% or above in Class 12.
Postgraduate/PhD Students: Must have completed the 2nd semester (1st year) of PG and secured at least 70% in Graduation.
Recent Graduates: Eligible if applying within 6 months of their final result, provided they maintain a 70% cumulative score.
The Application Process Timeline
The NITI Aayog portal follows a monthly cycle. You must apply at least two months in advance of your desired internship month.
Window: The portal opens from the 1st to the 10th of every month.
Duration: Ranges from a minimum of 6 weeks to a maximum of 6 months.
2. ISRO Student Internship 2026: Reaching for the Stars
ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) offers internships through its various centers like VSSC, SAC, URSC, and IIRS. In 2026, the focus has shifted heavily toward "Agentic AI" in satellite navigation and sustainable space habitats.
Key Internship Slots for 2026
ISRO typically operates in slots. For the NITI Aayog & ISRO Student Internship 2026 cycle, here are the anticipated windows:
Summer Slot (May–July 2026): Applications open between 15th February and 15th March 2026.
Winter Slot (November–January): Applications open in August.
ISRO Eligibility Requirements
3. Step-by-Step Application Process for 2026
To master the NITI Aayog & ISRO Student Internship 2026: Application Process, follow these specific steps for both portals:
For NITI Aayog:-
Portal Visit: Go to the NITI Aayog Internship Portal.
Registration: Fill in personal and academic details during the 1st–10th of the month.
Domain Selection: Choose only one "Area of Interest" (e.g., Science & Technology).
Submission: Keep your Registration Number safe for status tracking.
For ISRO:-
Center Selection: Visit the specific ISRO center's website (e.g., VSSC for launch vehicles, SAC for payloads).
Document Preparation: You will need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your college Principal/HOD in the specific ISRO format.
Online Form: Fill the form on the Antriksh Jigyasa or the specific center’s HRD portal.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): Unlike NITI, ISRO often requires a brief research interest summary.
4. Key Differences: NITI vs. ISRO 2026
Feature | NITI Aayog Internship | ISRO Student Internship |
Stipend | Unpaid | Unpaid (generally) |
Location | New Delhi (Offline) | Multiple Centers (Offline) |
Major Fields | Policy, Data, Economics | STEM, Robotics, AI, Physics |
Advance Notice | 2-6 months | 1-2 months |
Marks Requirement | 85% (UG-Class 12) | 60% or 6.32 CGPA |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply for the NITI Aayog & ISRO Student Internship 2026 at the same time?
A: Yes, you can apply for both. However, since both are full-time offline internships, you can only attend one at a time. Both systems are independent of each other.
Q2: Is there any stipend provided for the NITI Aayog & ISRO Student Internship 2026?
A: No. As per the current 2026 guidelines, both NITI Aayog and ISRO internships are unpaid. They provide high prestige, certificates, and world-class exposure, but students must manage their own accommodation and travel.
Q3: What is the most important document for the application process?
A: The No Objection Certificate (NOC). Without a college-stamped NOC in the prescribed format, neither organization will process your application.
Q4: Do I need a referral to get into ISRO or NITI Aayog?
A: No. Both processes are merit-based and handled through official portals. Beware of any third-party agencies claiming to "guarantee" placement.
Conclusion: Take Your Career to the Next Level
The NITI Aayog & ISRO Student Internship 2026 is more than just a certificate; it is your chance to see the internal workings of India's development and scientific prowess. While the selection is competitive, a meticulously planned application submitted within the correct window can set you apart.
Prepare your transcripts, get your NOC ready, and mark your calendars for the upcoming February application window for ISRO or the next 1st–10th cycle for NITI Aayog.
Essential CTA Links
Apply for NITI Aayog: Official Internship Portal
Apply for ISRO (IIRS/START): Antriksh Jigyasa Portal
NITI Guidelines PDF: Read Official 2026 Rules
Comments