Authors
Marina Caputo
Olivia Lanes
Marcel Pfaffhauser
Robert Davis
Key takeaways:
- Register now for Qiskit Global Summer School 2026: A decade on the cloud (13–24 July 2026).
- The free, online program builds practical quantum skills with Qiskit through lectures, labs, live Q&As with IBM Quantum experts, and more.
- Flexible, fully virtual format includes recorded content, interactive labs, and a global Discord community.
- New features include a beginners-only track, updated scoring requirements, and optional professional development workshops.
Registration is now open for Qiskit Global Summer School 2026: A decade on the cloud—the latest entry in an annual, global program designed to help students, researchers, and developers build practical skills in quantum computing. The two-week event will run from 13–24 July 2026.
Register for Qiskit Global Summer School 2026
It’s been ten years since IBM put the first quantum computer on the cloud, giving rise to a global ecosystem of developers, researchers, startups, and enterprises all working to advance quantum technology. For this year’s Qiskit Global Summer School (QGSS), we’ll be celebrating that legacy while giving participants the skills to explore complex workloads on today’s high-performance quantum computers.
What to expect from Qiskit Global Summer School 2026
The 2026 Summer School theme may celebrate the past, but the curriculum remains laser-focused on the cutting-edge technology we have today—emphasizing hands-on programming experience, real-world applications, and the emerging tools shaping the future of quantum information science.
Participants will:
- Learn directly from IBM Quantum researchers and engineers
- Complete guided coding labs using Qiskit
- Apply concepts to real-world quantum workflows
- Join live Q&A sessions with instructors
- Connect with peers through a dedicated Discord community
The curriculum is structured to support a range of experience levels—from quantum novices to experienced users looking to deepen their expertise.
How the program works
Qiskit Global Summer School is a fully virtual program that gives you the flexibility to learn on your own schedule, using the resources that work best for you. The program will feature:
- Recorded lecture content
- Interactive lab assignments
- Optional live sessions, discussions, and—new this year—workshops
Over the course of two weeks (13–24 July 2026), participants will move from foundational concepts to advanced techniques and applications. You’ll gain the practical skills you need to work with today’s most advanced quantum systems and explore their potential for real-world impact.
What’s new this year
Now in its seventh year, Qiskit Global Summer School 2026 brings some exciting changes and additions to the annual program:
- Beginners-only track. We’re introducing a new learning track to better support beginners with no prior Qiskit experience. Access the same learning content without the pressure of completing advanced lab assignments and programming exercises.
- Scoring updates. This year, to qualify for Participation Certificates or Badges, participants must watch 80% of all core IBM Quantum lectures. Participants in the advanced track must also complete lab assignments. Special guest lectures and panel discussions are not graded and will not affect final scores.
- QGSS Workshops. We’re introducing a new series of optional professional development sessions aimed at participants entering the quantum workforce. These sessions will cover topics such as reading quantum papers, using GitHub, and networking best practices. Workshops are not graded and will not affect final scores.
Who should participate
Qiskit Global Summer School is designed for anyone looking to learn quantum computing, including:
- Students and educators exploring quantum computing
- Developers building skills with Qiskit
- Researchers working to integrate quantum computing into their workflows
- Professionals entering the quantum workforce
No prior experience with quantum computing is required, particularly for learners in the beginners-only track. Some familiarity with Python and basic programming concepts is recommended for those participating in lab exercises. Familiarity with mathematical subjects such as linear algebra, group theory, complex numbers, and probability theory is also helpful but not required.
Register now
Over the past decade, quantum computing on the cloud has transformed how people learn, experiment, and innovate. Looking ahead, the focus is shifting toward delivering meaningful applications and unlocking new forms of value.
Ready to be part of what comes next? Spots fill up very quickly—often in less than a week—so be sure to sign up early to secure your place right away. If you register, please help keep the program accessible by committing to attend and participate fully.