Apply now for the ISS 2024! 
The deadline for application and for submission of reference letters is on 24 April 2024 at 12:00 (noon) CEST.

Apply to the ISS

Are you thinking of applying to the ISS? We recruit via a call for applications opening each year in February. You can find an overview about our recruitment procedure and a summary of the most important dates below.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply to the ISS you must provide the following:

  • Fully completed application form submitted before the relevant deadline
  • University studies in a life science related subject for a minimum of three years by the beginning of the ISS; since the programme has a strong hands-on focus, you should also have previous research experience
  • At least two reference letters; at least one of your referees should have supervised you in a research project
  • High level of both spoken and written English
  • We accept applications from students of any nationality who are studying in Germany or abroad at the time of the ISS

How to apply to the ISS

We want to attract the brightest, most creative and ambitious undergraduate students in the life sciences from all over the world. We receive around 300 applications for each call which opens every spring (see Registration & Application). Below you will find the steps you need to take in order to be admitted to the ISS.

Step 1: Have a look at the Participating Groups in this year's ISS.

Step 2: Apply via our online platform on Registration & Application.

Step 3: After a thorough evaluation of all applications, we invite the best candidates to the ISS in Mainz (12 August - 20 September).