Considering an internship in the UK? It’s an excellent opportunity for international students and recent graduates to boost their resumes and gain an edge over other applicants. As the world’s sixth-largest economy, the United Kingdom has become an increasingly attractive destination for international students seeking to intern abroad and acquire valuable experience working with top-tier companies.
An internship is a valuable component of higher education that enables students to apply their skills in a professional environment. Whether paid or unpaid, internships in the UK provide excellent prospects and job opportunities for international students. Many students appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and multicultural approach of the country, making internships an enjoyable experience.
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The UK Student Visa permits up to 20 hours of work per week. This flexibility enables you to balance your academic commitments with valuable work experience, making the most of your time in the UK.
Internships in the UK for International students are vast and full of learning and permanent hiring opportunities. If the employer likes your work and is happy with your experience, it can help you get pre-placement offers. Also, some programs have a compulsory integrated internship in their coursework to get industry exposure.
Some of the popular internship programs in the UK for International Students are given below in the table:
| Internship Program | University | Duration |
| Undergraduate Internship Programme | Richmond American University London | 6-12 weeks |
| B-Experienced Internship Programme | University of Birmingham | 10-20 days |
| London Summer Internship Program | Boston University | 8 weeks |
| Summer Internship Programme | University of Oxford | 2-12 weeks |
| Engineering Internship Program | Imperial College London | Varies (often summer) |
| Summer Internship in Investment Banking | University of London | 10 weeks |
Why Should International Students Opt For Internships?
A practical internship can pave the way for career success. A good summer internship is important for international students because of the following reasons:
- Improves Student’s CV or Resume: Many companies prefer candidates with prior experience in the related industry. Student internships give them a competitive advantage and the right industry exposure to achieve their career goals. Also, it gives an extra edge to students compared to others in the job application for a company.
- Extra Source of Income: A paid internship can help students earn extra money. It also helps with work permits after education and can help reduce the financial burden.
- Choosing a Field: Internship allows students to understand the field and helps them understand whether they want to pursue a career in the field or not. Also, it can help students to choose their master’s courses.
- Improve Skill Set: An internship can enhance the technical and soft skills needed for career growth.
- Ease your study-to-work transition: Internships provide practical experience that makes the transition from study to work smoother and easier.
- Improve your understanding of work culture: Internships expose students to the professional work environment, helping them understand and adapt to the work culture of different industries.
- Insight into operations and challenges: Internships provide a firsthand experience of the operations and challenges in the organisation, preparing students for future roles.
- Improves your confidence during university placement: The experience and skills gained during an internship can significantly boost your confidence during university placements.
- Networking: You meet new people and forge strong connections with them. It will help them network and understand different work ethics in the intern group. It also provides you with some valuable contacts in the industry.
- New Job Opportunity: If UK employers find your performance exceptional, they may offer a full-time job offer. You must develop a good rapport with co-workers, be enthusiastic, show appreciation and make a good impression.
Universities Offering Paid Internships in The UK for International Students
Many universities in the UK offer paid internships to international students. Here is the list of universities and colleges offering internships in the UK for international students:
| University | 1st Year Tuition Fee (in INR) |
| Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge | 16 L – 20 L |
| Coventry University, Central London | 18 L – 21 L |
| University of Sussex | 22 L – 26 L |
| University of Salford | 14 L – 18 L |
| University of Glasgow | 18 L – 29 L |
| Nottingham Trent University | 16 L – 18 L |
| Loughborough University | 24 L – 30 L |
| Queen Mary University of London | 22 L – 30 L |
| Sheffield Hallam University | 14L – 18L |
| Manchester Metropolitan University | 17 L – 21 L |
Note: The above-mentioned fees are based on the average cost of studying at these universities. The fees might vary for respective courses.
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Tips for Finding Internships in the UK for International Students
Finding a suitable internship in a foreign country can be a difficult task for you due to the unfamiliarity with the local job market and internship opportunities. Here, we have provided a few tips which can help you find perfect internships in the UK :
Internship Portals
There are several internship portals in the UK where students can find and apply for internships. Some of the portals are:
- Student Circus: It is primarily for students with Tier 4 visas.
- Milkround: It has more than a thousand internship posts
- TARGET Jobs: They have internship options and professional advice from the experts on the platform.
- E4S: You can find short-term summer internships. Part-time jobs and full-time jobs on the platform.
- Rate My Placement: Students can find internships here. Also, the platform solves all queries related to finding one. You can also learn ways to excel in the internship through this platform.
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Professional Networking
There are many ways to network In the UK. You can use social media or connect with your peers. Some of them are:
- Pages and Groups on LinkedIn: The site is solely dedicated to professional networking. There are several pages and groups on LinkedIn that help students advance their careers. They post internship options regularly. Students can search for internships in the UK from the LinkedIn platform.
- Social Media: Nowadays, all big companies have a social media presence. They notify about internships on their social media pages. You can leverage the power of social media to apply for such internships.
- Use your Network: If you have a connection in the United Kingdom, family or friends, use them to see how they can help you find an internship.
Government Website
Students can also check the official UK council government website. They post full-time, part-time, paid internships, apprenticeships, etc., for the students. You can easily find and apply for internships in the UK for international students through the website.
University Placement Cell
All universities and colleges in the UK have a placement cell. University students can contact them for internship opportunities. They will suggest to you and help you with the resources and documents.
Company Websites
Students can directly check the company website and apply for paid or unpaid internships. KPMG, Deloitte, EY, Bank of America, Rolls Royce, Barclays, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and many more offer internships.
Abroad Internship
There are many organisations that can help you find internships in the UK. Here are some organisations that help international students find internships in the UK:
- AIESEC UK: They facilitate international student exchange programs through paid internships.
- Absolute Internship: They match UK university students and graduates with international internships in big cities worldwide.
- The Intern Group: It is a registered company in London, England. They provide in-person programs and remote internship offers to international students in Germany, the United States, Europe, Australia, and the United Kingdom. They offer internships in London, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Dublin, Madrid, New York, California, Toronto, Australia, Chile, Tokyo, Columbia, Shanghai, Barcelona, and Berlin.
- Beyond Academy: It accelerates careers by offering a unique internship program to students in 18 industries and 14 cities, including London, Tokyo, New Zealand, and New York.
- BUNAC: They offer professional internships in Australia, Canada, and the United States.
- Placement Year International: They offer paid internships and work placements to students in business, hospitality, sports, and leisure.
- City Internships: They provide internship opportunities in many cities across the world. The internships offered range in various sectors, including banking, finance, healthcare, law, technology, and marketing.
- CRCC Asia: They facilitate global internships in Japan, the UK, China, and Vietnam. Most internships are in finance, law, marketing, and business.
Things to Consider Before Applying for Internships in UK
Before applying for internships in the UK for international students, check the following points:
- Length Of The Internship Programme: Most summer internships last 2 to 3 months, long enough to get a taste of the job and gain skills. But they can also last a week to a year, depending upon the employer and the respective field.
- Payment: In the UK, an intern should receive at least the National Minimum Wage per your age in a paid internship. Employers can also set hourly rates, but an intern is entitled to payment, except in the case of:
- Working for charity foundations
- Work shadowing
- When it is part of a higher education course
- When working with Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
How to Get an Internship in the UK for International students?
It is very important to get a suitable internship for you that aligns with your career goals and aspirations. To find the right opportunity, you can follow the process given below:
- Start Early & Plan Effectively: UK internship positions can be competitive, so applying early is essential. Many organisations have specific application periods, so make sure to check their deadlines and submit your application well in advance.
- Do Research: Research companies and organisations that offer internships in your field of interest. Use online job boards, company websites, and professional networks to identify potential opportunities.
- Tailor your application with Job requirements: When applying, tailor your application to the specific job requirements. Prepare a strong resume and cover letter highlighting your relevant skills, academic achievements, and previous work experience.
- Apply frequently: Applying frequently to multiple internships increases your chances of securing a desirable position. Utilise professional networking platforms and attend career fairs to connect with potential employers and industry professionals. Networking often leads to valuable internship opportunities.
- Prepare for Interviews: If you secure an interview, thoroughly prepare by researching the company, practising common interview questions, and understanding the role you are applying for.
- Prepare for the Visa Process: Understand the visa requirements for international students seeking internships in the UK. Ensure that you have the necessary visa or work authorisation to undertake an internship.
By following these steps, you can increase your chances of securing an internship in the UK as an international student. Good luck!
Requirements for applying for internships in the UK
The application process for internships in the UK for international students can be competitive. So make sure you apply at least six months in advance, during September, to not miss out on the opportunity. Applicants need the following documents:
- Fill out the application form
- Make a CV or Resume to showcase your skills, attitude towards the company, and strengths.
- Cover letter– It’s necessary to send a cover letter since it lets the employer know why you are best suited for this job. This is done by highlighting relevant skills and experience; therefore, you should always write a cover letter referencing the position you are applying for.
- Documents related to past educational degree
- Documents related to work experience, if any
Final Thoughts
The internship is a short-term period of work experience offered by various industries to national and international students. An internship is an essential part of a student’s study curriculum in some courses. It helps students to gain relevant technical and soft skills. Also, getting a good graduate job is difficult. Internships in the UK for international students can give an extra edge when interviewing for the target job. And earning some extra money through a paid internship never hurts!
However, finding the perfect internship abroad can be challenging, especially for international students. This is where LeapScholar comes in.
LeapScholar can help you navigate the process and connect you with top internship opportunities in the UK. Talk to our study abroad counsellors today to find the right internship opportunity for your dream career.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is there any age limit to applying for an internship in the UK?
A. Many internships are for college students, so they have an age limit of 18–25 years. While if you are a mature student or want to look for alternative career opportunities, check the age limit before applying.
Q. Does an internship require any previous experience in the field?
A. Employers do not expect students to have past work experience. They will look out for skills you have developed during the degree. Also, it is not about the technical skills; it is more about the soft skills you have. Also, some internships look for specific previous experience; for instance, if you are applying for graphic designer internships, you likely need experience with Adobe Illustrator.
Q. What are the top internship programs offered by UK universities for Indian students?
A. UK universities offer different internship programs in various fields:
1. MBA Global Business
2. International Fashion Management
3. International Marketing
4. Biotechnology with Professional Experience
5. Molecular Biology with Professional Experience
6. Digital Marketing
7. PR and Consulting
8. Pharmacology and Drug Discovery with Professional Experience
9. International Hospitality Management
10. International Tourism Management
11. International Events Management
12. International Tourism
13. Hospitality Management
Q. Are internships in the UK paid?
A. In general, internships in the UK are paid. Indeed, many paid internships are available in the United Kingdom for university students from abroad. However, there are a few employers who do not pay interns.
Q. When should I apply for internships in the UK?
A. At least 3 to 6 months before the desired date, seeking an internship in the United Kingdom is advisable. If you want, you can easily apply for an internship. However, as there is no limitation on the number of hours worked during breaks, summer vacations are considered an ideal time for internships. You’re free to do internships without the burden of studying.
Q. Can I do an internship in the UK along with my studies?
A. Yes, students from all over the world can also intern in the United Kingdom upon completion of their studies. Your visas allow you to work up to 20 hours a week and research simultaneously, which you can use for internships. In contrast, the threshold is increased during summer vacations.
Q. What visa do I need for the UK internship?
A. It is essential to obtain a work permit before proceeding with the application for an internship. In the case of training that has been less than six months, students may proceed with their visitor visa application if they demonstrate an internship offer letter to UKVI and supporting documents showing a valid visit visa. In addition, if you decide on a course that consists of internship and work experience or career training, you can do an internship under the Tier 4 student visa.
Q. Can international students apply for internships in the UK?
A. Yes, internships in the United Kingdom can be arranged for students from abroad. However, specific considerations and requirements must be considered. It is crucial to ensure that the internship complies with visa rules and that its employer has a UK-registered sponsor status.
Q. How do I stay updated on the UK internship opportunities and visa regulations?
A. You can be updated on the UK internship opportunities and visa regulations by regularly checking the official website of the government and the best recruiting companies website which align with your interests.
Q. What are some common challenges for international students looking for internships in the UK?
A. Some common challenges for international students looking for internships in the UK can be:
1. Language Proficiency
2. Cultural Differences
3. Visa Requirements
But, these can be solved with preparation and support.
Q. What is the interview process for me for internships in the UK?
A. Interviews are conducted in different ways by the company. The discussion may be by telephone, videoconferencing, in-person interviews or assessment tests. Get started by looking into the company, then practice your questions for an interview.
Q. What are a few tips to secure the best internships in the UK?
A. Most UK universities have their placement cells which supports in securing the best internships but their are other platforms too, like-
1. Online forums
2. Linkedln
3. Other recruiting agencies.
Q. Is it easy to get an internship in the UK?
A. Getting an internship can be challenging, as there is often intense competition for these positions. If you’re having difficulty finding a conventional in-person internship, there are alternative ways to enhance your skills, such as virtual work experience, volunteering, or temporary or part-time employment.
Q. Are there any internship opportunities available in the UK for Indian engineering students?
A. Yes, there are several internship opportunities available in the UK for Indian students in the field of engineering. Some of the popular internship options are listed below:
-Altruistiq’s Data Science Intern
-Cyber Crime Student Internship
-Design Engineering Intern
-Software Engineering Intern
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