How to Apply

The Community College Internships (CCI) application is now open for the Summer 2026 term. Applications are due January 7, 2026 at 5:00 PM ET. Access to the online application system is available here.

We encourage you to create an account in advance of the deadline to familiarize yourself with the requirements.

The CCI application process is completed entirely through our online application system.

Application Resources & Support

CCI Application Assistance Workshops:

  • Application Assistance Workshop [canceled]
    October 30th , 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET:     [Click to review presentation here]
    Join us for the upcoming CCI Application Assistance workshop. This session will provide an overview of the program and equip you with effective strategies for submitting a compliant application.

  • CCI Alumni Panel Discussion
    December 2nd, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. ET
    Gain insights into the collaborative experience directly from program alumni by joining our upcoming panel discussion. This session will provide valuable information about the program, guide you through the application process, and address your questions. Registration is required to attend. Click hereto register.

CCI Office Hours:

  • December 3, 10, and 17th, 2025 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. ET
    Questions? The program office will be holding office hours to address administrative questions regarding the CCI application process, including submission procedures. We encourage both applicants and letter-of-recommendation writers to attend. Registration is required to attend. Click hereto register.

Virtual Internship Fair (VIF) Registration:

Please join the DOE Office of Science Virtual Internship Fair, November 6, 2025, from 1:00–5:00 pm EST. You will have the opportunity to meet and live-chat with experts to learn about Summer 2026 internships, research and development, and career opportunities at the DOE National Laboratories. The event is sponsored by the DOE Office of Science’s Office of Workforce Development for Teachers and Scientists, and technical support is provided by the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education. Register by clicking here today!

Application Requirements Overview

A complete application includes:

  1. Required Fields of the Online Application System
  2. Undergraduate Transcripts (Submitted Online)
  3. Two Letters of Recommendation

Only complete applications submitted by the deadline will be considered for review and selection. All materials must be uploaded into the application system; mailed or emailed documents will not be accepted.

1. Required Fields of the Online Application System
Complete all sections, including:

  • Contact and Education Information
  • Citizenship Status
  • Laboratory/facility selection and research interests
  • Essays

Applicants should create an account on the CCI online application system. The online system will guide you through each section. For details on the selection process, please review the [Application Selection Process and Notification].

2. Undergraduate Transcripts

Submit all transcripts directly through the online application system.

  • Redaction Requirement: Before uploading, you must remove (blank out, black out, make illegible) any Social Security numbers and/or full dates of birth (month, day, year). Applications containing this Personally Identifiable Information (PII) will be deemed non-compliant and will not be released to host laboratories or facilities for review or consideration. The application system provides an easy-to-use upload feature. The upload feature does provide a redaction tool to assist in redacting your PII from your transcript. It is your responsibility to ensure that your PII is redacted or removed from your transcript.
  • Acceptable Formats: Official or unofficial transcripts are accepted. They must clearly show:
    • Applicant's name
    • Name of the university/college
    • All courses with grades, and
    • Cumulative GPA
  • Unacceptable Formats: 
    • Degree audits or advising reports
    • Screenshots or photos of transcripts
  • Legibility: Transcripts must be clear and legible, uploaded as Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) files, and labeled with your name and institution.
  • Eligibility-Specific Transcript Requirements:
    • Current/Recent Institution: Submit the most recent transcript available from your current or recently-graduated undergraduate institution. This transcript must have been printed or accessed no earlier than the application opening date.
    • Prior Institutions: Additionally, submit undergraduate transcripts from all other undergraduate academic institutions you attended as a matriculated postsecondary student within the 5 years preceding your current enrollment. This includes transcripts for any transfer credits earned from previously attended colleges/universities.

3. Two Letters of Recommendation

Recommendations are submitted directly by your recommenders through the online system.

  • Request Process: You are highly encouraged to request recommendations before submitting your full application. Use the "Request Recommendations" tab in your CCI account to list recommenders; requests are sent automatically once listed.
  • Responsibility: It is your responsibility to ensure your recommenders submit their letters by the application deadline. Discuss your request with them in advance and allow ample time.
  • Quantity: A minimum of two recommendations is required; you may solicit up to three. Keep in mind, only the first two completed in the system will be included with your application.
  • Recommender Qualifications: Letters should come from individuals familiar with your education, training, experience, aptitude, or potential relevant to the CCI program. Suitable recommenders include STEM course instructors, internship mentors/supervisors, and research advisors.
  • Restrictions: Recommendations from family members, friends, or friends of family members are not permitted.
  • Submission Method: WDTS will not accept any mailed or emailed recommendations.