Are you a PhD student ready to make an impact this summer? Google invites PhD candidates to apply for their Software Developer Intern – Summer 2026 programme in Canada. This fully-paid 12–14 week internship opportunity offers a chance to work on large-scale distributed systems, advanced computing projects and collaborate with one of the world’s most innovative tech teams. With locations in Waterloo (ON), Montréal (QC), Toronto (ON) and more, this is your gateway to building real-world solutions at Google.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Google Software Developer Intern (PhD) programme you must meet the following criteria:
- Be currently enrolled in a PhD programme in Computer Science or a related technical field. Google
- Be located in Canada for the duration of the internship. Google
- Have experience coding in one or more programming languages such as C, C++, Java or Python. Google
- Be in your penultimate academic year (or returning to the programme after the internship) and able to commit to full-time work for 12-14 weeks outside of your university term. Preferred: research experience in algorithms, AI/ML, database/distributed systems, compilers, networking or systems. Google
- Proficiency in English is required (since Google is a global company and collaboration heavily depends on a common language). Google
How to Apply
- Navigate to the official job posting on Google’s careers site (see useful link below).
- Prepare your application materials: – Updated CV/resume with your anticipated graduation date listed in MM/YY format. Google – Current unofficial or official transcript in English, uploaded under “Education” as “Now attending”. Google
- On the job page, click the Apply button and complete the sections as required (PDFs preferred). Google
- You will be asked to select your preferred working location from options such as Waterloo ON, Montréal QC or Toronto ON. Google
- Because applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, it’s in your best interest to submit early. The window may close once all project slots are filled. Google
Scholarship / Compensation & Benefits
- While this is an internship rather than a traditional scholarship, it’s a paid role with added benefits.
- You will join Google’s internship programme, receive compensation, and have access to development opportunities, an executive speaker series, and community-building networks.
- Working at Google as a PhD intern offers an outstanding environment for research-driven students: you’ll work on critical projects, engage in scalable system design, distributed software, and potentially shape future technologies in AI, search, platforms and more.
Key Dates & Deadlines
- The anticipated closing date for applications is February 27, 2026. Google
- Remember: Google may close the application window earlier if all project slots are filled.
- The hiring process may take upwards of 90+ days from application submission
