Internship in Germany Part I: How and Where to Find One

Last updated on December 23rd, 2022 at 05:07 pm

Interning in Germany is a common and encouraged way to gain professional experience if you’re planning to move there.

Taking an internship (Praktikum) will help you understand Germany’s working culture and communication, business etiquette, and work-life balance while giving you time to adjust to culture shock.

1. Why Should You Intern In Germany?

Specifically, for people in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields (STEM), it’s one of the best countries to gain experience with big audacious companies.

From logistic giants such as DHL to engineering masterminds such as MAN, these companies will give you an experience worth boasting about.

It will look good on your CV. 😉 Plus, working for a German company in Germany is already an upgrade to your professional career.

Moreover, there are financial benefits in getting an internship in Germany – it’s cheaper compared to other northern European countries! When you intern in Germany, you’re practically a student.

And the country provides enormous student discounts – from transportation tickets to concert tickets. And especially in Berlin, it is very international.

2. How To Get An Internship In Germany?

There are different kinds of internships in Germany. If you are a student studying at a German university, chances are, getting an internship is part of your studies.

In Germany, internships can be paid and non-paid internships.

If you’re studying at a German university, your university should be able to help you find a placement. But if you’re not, there are a number of ways to find an internship program. You can…

1. Apply online on websites such as berufsstart.de, jobguide.de, or derpraktikant.eu.
2. Visit the company’s website and find internships. And then, apply. You may have to learn how to write your CVs and cover letters in German. Probably.
3. Network! Network! Network! Get the right connection by connecting with founders and employees from German start-up companies. They are a lot!
4. Another way to get an internship in Germany is to apply through organisations such as the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and AIESEC. If you get a placement there, they will also help you get your visa.

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Next, how to prepare for your internship visa application once you have found an internship in Germany.

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Do you have any experience in applying for an internship in Germany? Go ahead and tell us all about it.