Internship semester: How to secure the right position

Your internship semester is coming up soon and you don't have a position yet? We'll show you how to find the right place, what requirements the mandatory internship must meet and how to apply successfully.

Auf einem Handyscreen steht "Internship Opportunity" Getty Images/CarmenMurillo

So you can find the right position for your internship

First, determine where you want to do your internship. The chosen focus can strongly influence your further studies and your future career – after all, most students only complete one internship. During this time, they immerse themselves deeply in a topic, get to know the company well, and write a comprehensive internship report. Once you have your goal in mind, it's time to start searching for positions: You can find some internship offers in our job portal or at our career events throughout Germany.

If you already have your dream company in mind but can't find a suitable position in the job postings, you can also call the HR department directly (or send an email) and inquire about internship opportunities. An unsolicited application can also lead to success!

What you need to consider in your internship application

Apply with a meaningful cover letter in which you introduce your motivation and skills, along with a complete resume. Tip: Include an excerpt of the requirements for your mandatory internship so that the company can align them with its own capabilities. This way, you avoid unnecessary delays!

Apply early to suitable companies, ideally several months before your desired start date. If you have trouble finding an internship, reach out to your internship supervisor for support.

Salary during the internship

In general, you are not entitled to a salary during the internship – but there are some companies that still pay for mandatory internships. After all, the time spent interning can be a stepping stone for your career: If the internship goes well, you could continue working as a working student – and after graduation, you may have a chance of being hired.

Your checklist

  • Have you planned enough time in advance?
  • Have you researched various positions that match your profile?
  • Can all requirements according to the study regulations be fulfilled? (If in doubt, inquire beforehand)
  • Is your cover letter and resume up to date, well-formulated, and include a professional photo?
  • Does your application include an excerpt of the study regulations?

Good luck!

Current companies in Career World

GründerCenter Sparkasse KölnBonn

GründerCenter Sparkasse KölnBonn

Wir begleiten dich bei jeder Phase deiner Gründung persönlich mit dem Knowhow der Nr. 1 bei Gründungsfinanzierungen in Köln und Bonn. Dabei steht dir unser großes Netzwerk und unser Wissenspool jederzeit zur Verfügung!

European Border and Coast Guard Agency - Frontex

European Border and Coast Guard Agency - Frontex

Frontex is a hub of expertise for border control activities, sharing intelligence and knowledge with all EU Member States and neighbouring countries affected by irregular migration and cross-border crime.

Bundeswehr

Bundeswehr

Die Bundeswehr schützt Deutschland und seine Verbündeten, beteiligt sich an Auslandseinsätzen und an der nationalen Krisenvorsorge.