DRDO CHESS Summer Internship 2025 – Stipend, Eligibility, Apply Offline Now

Apply for DRDO CHESS Internship 2025 and work with India’s top defense lab. Check eligibility, stipend details, and offline application process for B.Tech/M.Tech students.

Introduction: Why the DRDO CHESS Internship 2025 Is a Golden Opportunity

Each year, thousands of engineering and science students aim to gain real-world exposure through internships. But few internships carry the prestige and impact of the DRDO CHESS Summer Internship 2025. Offered by the Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), a premier lab under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), this program is more than just a summer training — it’s a stepping stone to India’s advanced defense research ecosystem.

CHESS is known for its specialized work in directed energy systems, electronic warfare, and laser-based defense tech, making it a rare domain for student participation. If you’re an engineering student passionate about aerospace, electronics, or computational science, this paid internship could be the most defining experience of your academic life.

Who Can Apply for CHESS DRDO Internship 2025?

Basic Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for the DRDO CHESS internship 2025 are clearly defined and highly competitive. Here’s a breakdown of who can apply:

Applicants must be from AICTE or UGC-approved institutions. Final year students and postgraduates are given preference based on academic standing and research alignment.

The official CHESS internship notification document can be accessed directly on the DRDO official website for full details.

What Makes CHESS Unique Among DRDO Labs?

While several DRDO labs accept interns, CHESS offers a unique research environment, focusing on futuristic combat technologies. Interns are not just passive observers — they get to assist on live projects involving:

• Electromagnetic weapon systems
• Laser-based tracking and targeting systems
• High-energy beam simulations
• Real-time embedded control systems

These areas fall under India’s strategic defense goals, and CHESS plays a critical role in developing indigenous systems under the Make in India initiative. According to information shared via the Science and Technology Ministry, DRDO labs like CHESS are central to India’s R&D roadmap for 2030.

Internship Stipend and Facilities Offered

One of the highlights of the program is the stipend. Interns selected for the CHESS DRDO internship in 2025 will receive a monthly stipend of ₹15,000–₹25,000, depending on the discipline and duration of stay. Here’s an indicative table of stipend allocation:

Additional benefits include:

• On-site access to labs, computing facilities, and prototypes
• Library and cafeteria access during working hours
• Certificate of completion from DRDO, recognized nationwide

How to Apply for DRDO CHESS Internship 2025

Applying for the CHESS internship under DRDO is a formal yet straightforward process. Unlike many generic internship programs, this one is administered through direct offline submission, which adds both seriousness and authenticity to the selection method. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you complete the process efficiently:

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Download the Official Notification & Form
   Start by downloading the official application format and internship guidelines from the DRDO Careers page. The latest announcement for CHESS usually appears in the “What’s New” or “Internships” section.
2. Fill the Form Accurately
   The form requires personal details, academic qualifications, research interests, and a preferred internship domain. Be sure to highlight any prior project work or coding experience in defense or automation.
3. Attach Required Documents
   These include:
   • Bonafide certificate from the college
   • Marksheets (latest semester)
   • Government ID proof
   • Passport-sized photo
   • Letter of recommendation (optional but valuable)
4. Prepare and Print the Package
   Print the filled application along with all documents. Ensure every page is signed where needed and clearly labeled.
5. Send Your Application by Post
   Courier the complete application to:
   Recommended Functional Analyst Career Guide: Role, Skills, Salary, Growth & How to Crack the Job

   The Director, Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), DRDO, Vignyanakancha Post, Hyderabad – 500069

   Applications must reach before the deadline, typically around mid-April to early May 2025. Late or incomplete applications are rejected without notice.

For better accuracy, applicants can also refer to last year’s format hosted by academic portals like Rasayanika which archive DRDO notices for science candidates.

Documents Checklist for Application

To avoid last-minute errors, keep this checklist handy:

Ensure the college seal is stamped on the bonafide certificate and any tampering or overwriting is avoided in the application form. Using a reliable courier service with tracking is also advised, especially for out-of-state applicants.

Selection Process and Timeline

Once applications are submitted, CHESS begins the screening process which typically follows this structure:

Candidates are notified via the email ID mentioned in the form. Keep checking your inbox (and spam folder) during the selection window. Unlike some other DRDO labs, CHESS does not conduct interviews — selection is profile-based.

What to Expect After Selection at CHESS DRDO

Once selected for the DRDO CHESS Summer Internship 2025, you’ll receive a formal confirmation via email. The subject line often includes your application reference number along with the lab address and joining instructions. Selected interns are required to report in person at the CHESS facility in Hyderabad on the assigned date.

On arrival, candidates must carry original documents for verification. These include identity proof, academic transcripts, and a printed copy of the internship offer letter. Interns are then assigned to specific technical divisions based on their academic background and stated interests in the application.

You will undergo a brief orientation covering lab protocols, data security, health safety measures, and working hours. Interns are expected to maintain discipline, confidentiality, and attendance — CHESS operates as a sensitive defense R&D zone and maintains a strict code of conduct.

Core Projects & Domains Assigned to Interns

The most enriching part of this internship lies in its exposure to real-time defense R&D projects. Interns are not observers but active contributors to assigned units. Project topics vary annually based on the current priorities of CHESS, but the following are common across batches:

Each intern is paired with a senior scientist or lab engineer who acts as a mentor during the course of the program. Many projects use proprietary simulation tools, and access is granted based on security clearance.

The facility also includes a prototype testing zone, and if your assigned topic involves systems integration or field testing, you may be invited to observe trials in a restricted but supervised setting. These experiences, while controlled, are rare opportunities for civilian interns.

Testimonials from Previous Interns

While the program is relatively exclusive and doesn’t widely advertise intern feedback, several engineering students from top institutions like NITs and IITs have shared insights across educational forums. Here are excerpts compiled from open-access communities such as Quora and Internshala Diaries:

• “I worked on a simulation project that used real DRDO datasets. My mentor helped me understand how defense logic is tested in the real world. It was the best part of my academic journey.”
  – M.Tech Student, NIT Warangal
• “We weren’t just running software; we were expected to present findings, test hypotheses, and discuss limitations. It felt like a real job, not a token internship.”
  – B.Tech Final Year, IIT Hyderabad

Such testimonials emphasize the blend of theoretical grounding and practical implementation that CHESS offers. It’s a place where curiosity, academic strength, and discipline converge into impactful outcomes.

How to Increase Your Selection Chances for CHESS Internship

Securing a spot in the DRDO CHESS Summer Internship 2025 is no small feat, especially when seats are limited and applicants from across India compete for the same. However, a few smart steps can significantly improve your chances of being shortlisted.

Academic Alignment with Lab Projects

While a decent CGPA is important (ideally above 7.5), what truly sets your profile apart is academic relevance to CHESS domains. If you’re from Electronics, Mechanical, Computer Science, or Physics, highlight relevant coursework such as:

• Embedded Systems
• Signal Processing
• High-Power Laser Applications
• Aerospace Materials
• Computational Simulations

Try to reflect how your academic journey overlaps with CHESS’s core areas, such as directed energy systems or weapon simulation platforms. Mention any minor project, seminar, or coding work related to MATLAB, Simulink, ANSYS, or similar tools that DRDO engineers often use.

Crafting a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)

CHESS may not ask for an SOP formally, but you can smartly include a cover letter expressing your interest. Use clear language and avoid generic phrases. A good structure includes:

1. Your academic background
2. Why CHESS interests you specifically
3. What value you’ll bring as an intern
4. What you expect to gain from the experience

Avoid making your application feel like a résumé dump. Instead, let it convey focused intent and sincerity. Refer to credible government formats on portals like National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) for tone and structure examples when preparing formal submissions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Several applications are rejected not because the candidate lacks potential, but due to avoidable errors. Here’s a list of the most common mistakes you should steer clear of:

Also, avoid submitting scanned or photocopied bonafide certificates without an official seal. All documents should be recent and verifiable.

Downloadable Resources & Important References

To make the application process smoother, here are some essential resources:

• DRDO Internship Official Guidelines PDF
• DRDO CHESS Lab Info Page

These links offer authentic insights into lab capabilities, eligibility policies, and contact references. It’s advisable to bookmark them and check regularly for any deadline or format updates.

DRDO CHESS Internship 2025 Questions

Students often have recurring doubts about the CHESS internship offered by DRDO, especially since the process is partly offline and managed individually by each lab. Here’s a quick FAQ section answering the most common queries for 2025 aspirants.

Is the CHESS internship open to 3rd-year students?

Generally, preference is given to final-year B.Tech or M.Tech students. However, strong profiles from third-year candidates, especially those with project experience or exceptional CGPA, are sometimes considered.

Can students from private universities apply?

Yes. As long as your college is AICTE or UGC approved and you can produce a valid bonafide certificate, you’re eligible. Ensure that your documents clearly reflect institutional credibility.

Will there be an interview for selection?

CHESS does not conduct interviews for its summer internship. Selection is based purely on academic merit, project alignment, and submitted documents. Only shortlisted candidates receive communication from the lab.

Is accommodation provided?

No hostel or accommodation is offered by CHESS. Students are required to arrange their own stay in Hyderabad for the internship duration. It’s advisable to look for temporary PG or sublet options near Kanchanbagh or DRDO Township areas.

Can interns expect a job offer from DRDO later?

The internship is non-recruitment in nature. However, performing well and building networks can help in future applications to DRDO’s junior research fellowships or scientist recruitment programs. You can keep track of such openings on RAC DRDO’s official portal.

Key Takeaways and Final Checklist

If you’re planning to apply for the DRDO CHESS Summer Internship 2025, here are the core points you should remember:

• Check eligibility thoroughly before applying
• Carefully fill and post the printed application form before the deadline
• Align your academic profile with CHESS lab’s core domains
• Avoid document errors or vague statements
• Be alert for email communication during the selection window

Here’s a quick summary table:

Final Call to Action

If you’re aspiring for a future in India’s defense research ecosystem, the CHESS internship can offer a serious head start. Start preparing your documents today and send your application early to avoid last-minute postal delays.

You can also bookmark the Internship section of the DRDO portal to stay updated with any changes or additional labs opening their slots for summer 2025.

FAQ

Who can apply for the DRDO CHESS Internship 2025?

Final year B.E./B.Tech and M.E./M.Tech students in electronics, mechanical, computer science, or physics can apply.

What is the stipend for CHESS interns?

Selected interns receive a monthly stipend ranging from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000, depending on qualification level.

Is the application process online or offline?

The DRDO CHESS internship requires an offline application. Candidates must send printed forms by post to the lab address.

Does CHESS provide accommodation to interns?

No, interns need to arrange their own accommodation during the internship period in Hyderabad.

What is the duration of the internship?

The internship typically lasts for 4 to 6 weeks during the summer months (May–July).

Do selected interns need to go through an interview?

No interview is conducted. Selection is based on academic profile, relevance to CHESS domains, and document screening.

How can I improve my chances of getting selected?

Align your projects and interests with CHESS focus areas. A well-drafted cover letter and clear documentation can improve selection chances.