IBM SkillsBuild Virtual Internship 2026: Eligibility, Duration, Certificate

Looking for a free online internship that helps you build practical technology skills and earn a recognised certificate?

The IBM SkillsBuild Virtual Internship 2026 is a free, online learning and internship initiative aimed at students and early-career learners who want exposure to industry-relevant digital skills through structured modules and project-based learning.

For the 2026 intake, IBM SkillsBuild continues to offer multiple virtual learning tracks. In addition, a 6-week Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AIML) virtual internship has been officially listed on the AICTE Internship Portal for the January 2026 cycle.

Depending on the selected track, learners can gain exposure to areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, and Data Analytics, through guided coursework and hands-on tasks.

This article covers key details of the IBM SkillsBuild Virtual Internship 2026, including eligibility criteria, learning structure, application process, duration, and certificate information, based on official programme listings.

Read Also: How to Get a Big 4 Internship in 2026?

IBM SkillsBuild Virtual Internship – Quick Overview

This overview reflects the current structure of the IBM SkillsBuild Virtual Internship Program 2026. Specific learning tracks and course availability may vary depending on the enrolment cycle and learner profile.

Applicants must complete their registration and submit the application through the official AICTE Internship Portal before the deadline. Dates mentioned above apply to the 6-week AI & Machine Learning virtual internship offered under the IBM SkillsBuild initiative for the January 2026 intake.

Candidates are advised to regularly check the AICTE portal for any updates or changes related to timelines, eligibility, or onboarding instructions.

About IBM SkillsBuild Virtual Internship 2026

The IBM SkillsBuild Virtual Internship 2026 is a free, online learning and internship initiative aimed at students and early-career learners who want to build practical, job-relevant digital skills. The program is part of IBM’s global SkillsBuild initiative, which focuses on expanding access to digital education.

For certain tracks, including the 6-week Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AIML) virtual internship listed on the AICTE Internship Portal, the program is offered in collaboration with partner organisations such as the Edunet Foundation.

Participants engage in structured online learning through self-paced modules and project-based tasks aligned with the selected learning track. Depending on the internship offering, learners may work on practical problem statements and complete assessments as part of the programme requirements.

On successful completion, participants receive a digital certificate and, where applicable, a digital badge, which can be added to professional profiles such as LinkedIn or included in resumes.

Also Read: Google Software Engineering Internship Summer 2026

IBM SkillsBuild Internship Eligibility Criteria

The IBM SkillsBuild Virtual Internship 2026 is open to students who meet the eligibility conditions specified for the respective internship track, including those listed on the AICTE Internship Portal.

• Educational Background: Applicants should be enrolled in an AICTE-approved college, university, or technical institution. Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the internship track.
• Current Status: Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing programmes such as B.Tech, BCA, MCA, MBA, and other relevant courses, as mentioned in the official listing.
• Nationality: For AICTE-listed internships, eligibility is typically limited to students studying in India, as per the portal guidelines.
• Technical Background: Prior technical experience is not mandatory. The internship is suitable for learners interested in building foundational skills in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Computing, depending on the selected track.
• Infrastructure: Since the internship is conducted online, applicants must have access to a stable internet connection and a suitable device.

The application process for AICTE-listed tracks does not typically involve an entrance test. Shortlisting and participation are subject to the criteria, timelines, and availability mentioned in the official internship listing.

Read Also: Nestle Internship Program : Full Details

IBM SkillsBuild Duration and Program Structure

The duration and structure of the IBM SkillsBuild Virtual Internship 2026 vary depending on the selected learning track. Some offerings follow a flexible, self-paced format, while specific internships listed on the AICTE Internship Portal have a defined timeline.

For example, the Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AIML) virtual internship listed on the AICTE portal follows a 6-week structured format, combining guided online learning with project-based tasks.

• Duration: Track-specific (e.g., 6 weeks for the AICTE-listed AIML internship)
• Learning Mode: Online; includes self-paced modules and guided activities
• Time Commitment: Varies by track and learner pace
• Projects: Practical assignments and project work aligned with the learning track
• Assessment: Completion of modules and project-based evaluation, as specified in the internship listing

Applicants are advised to refer to the official internship listing for exact duration, structure, and assessment details applicable to the chosen track.

Important Dates

Read Also: TCS Virtual Internship : Eligibility, Application, Dates

Learning Modules Offered in IBM Internship

The IBM SkillsBuild Virtual Internship 2026 offers learning tracks across key, industry-relevant domains through structured online modules. Available tracks may vary by internship listing and enrolment cycle.

• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (AIML): Focuses on foundational AI concepts, machine learning basics, and applied problem-solving. A dedicated 6-week AIML virtual internship is officially listed on the AICTE Internship Portal for the January 2026 intake.
• Cybersecurity: Covers fundamental concepts related to cybersecurity awareness, threat identification, and basic protection mechanisms.
• Data Analytics: Introduces data handling concepts, basic analysis techniques, and data-driven decision-making principles.
• Front-End Development: Focuses on web development fundamentals, including HTML, CSS, and introductory JavaScript concepts.
• Business and Professional Skills: Covers workplace communication, collaboration, and professional readiness skills relevant across roles.

Each track typically includes self-paced learning content and knowledge checks, along with practical tasks aligned to the selected domain. Specific module structure and project requirements are defined in the official internship listing.

Successful completion of the required learning components is necessary to receive the digital certificate and, where applicable, a digital badge.

Related: Amazon Data Science Internship: Apply Now

Certificate and Digital Badge

On successful completion of the IBM SkillsBuild Virtual Internship 2026, participants receive a digital certificate and, where applicable, a digital badge, as specified for the selected internship track.

• Digital Certificate: Issued after completing the required learning modules and assessments outlined in the official internship listing.
• Digital Badge: A shareable online credential that can be added to professional profiles such as LinkedIn or included in resumes.
• Issuing Authority: Certificates and badges are issued under the IBM SkillsBuild initiative, sometimes in collaboration with partner organisations such as the Edunet Foundation or as per AICTE-listed internship guidelines.

The certificate reflects successful participation in the selected learning track, such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, or Data Analytics, depending on the internship offering.

Also Read: Infosys Springboard Internship Program 2026

How to Apply for IBM SkillsBuild Internship 2026

Interested students and freshers can apply for the IBM SkillsBuild Virtual Internship 2026 through the official AICTE Internship Portal. The registration process is simple and fully online.

• Step 1: Visit the AICTE Internship Portal.
• Step 2: Search for the listing titled “IBM SkillsBuild Internship”.
• Step 3: Click on “Apply Now” and fill in the required details like name, email, college name, and program enrolled.
• Step 4: Submit your application and wait for confirmation. Successful applicants will receive further instructions via email.

The application process is free of cost, and there is no entrance test or eligibility screening beyond the basic criteria mentioned earlier. Seats are limited, so early registration is advised.

For direct registration and latest updates, students are encouraged to regularly check the AICTE Internship Portal and the IBM SkillsBuild official website.

Read Also: AICTE AI Internship : ₹15,000 Stipend

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)