Educational Programs FAQs

Updated:
A group of ORNL interns pose inside a large Instagram-style photo frame in the lobby of Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Three smiling interns wearing green lanyards stand centered in the frame, while other attendees and large windows are visible in the background.

At Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), our goal is for all educational programs participants to have a rewarding learning and professional development experience. We aim to provide useful resources that can help you find an internship and plan for your time as an intern at the laboratory. If you have a question that is not answered in these FAQs, email education@ornl.gov. 

Who can participate? 

ORNL internships are open to motivated students, including those without prior research or professional experience. Eligibility varies by program, but most higher education internships require: 

  • Age 18 or older (separate opportunities are available for high school students) 
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher 
  • U.S. citizenship or legal permanent resident status 

Refer to individual program pages for specific eligibility requirements. 

What types of internships are available? 

ORNL offers internships across science, engineering, computing and technology disciplines, as well as business and other professional fields. 

To explore research areas, review ORNL’s Fact Sheets and program pages. 

To strengthen your application: 

  • Apply to multiple programs. Many programs place interns at ORNL. Apply to all that align with your background and interests. 
  • Connect with a mentor. Students are encouraged to contact ORNL staff to discuss research opportunities. Use the How to Find a Mentor guide to begin. 

How long do internships last? 

Most internships last 10–16 weeks to align with academic terms. In some cases, extensions may be possible in coordination with your mentor and program manager. 

See individual program pages for details. 

Will I receive a stipend? 

Yes. All ORNL internship programs provide a stipend. Stipend amounts vary by program and academic level. 

Refer to individual program descriptions for details. 

Where will I live? 

Securing short-term housing can be challenging. After accepting an offer, interns receive access to housing resources and guidance to help identify suitable options in the area. 

Is travel support available? 

Many programs provide travel reimbursement for interns who live more than 50 miles from Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Program managers provide specific guidance on travel coordination. 

How do I get to the ORNL campus? 

Because the ORNL campus is located outside downtown Oak Ridge, personal transportation is strongly recommended. 

Additional options include: 

  • UT–ORNL Shuttle: Available to interns living near the University of Tennessee campus. An ORNL badge is required to ride the shuttle, so it may not be available on your first day. Visit the shuttle website for schedules and routes. 
  • Carpooling: Interns often coordinate carpools. After accepting your offer, you will receive access to a communication platform to connect with other interns. 

Approximate drive times: 

  • Oak Ridge: 10–15 minutes 
  • Knoxville: 30–45 minutes 
  • Maryville: 30–45 minutes 
  • Kingston: 25–30 minutes 

During peak hours, allow an additional 10–15 minutes for ORNL gate traffic. 

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.