When a student chooses Germany from the list of available internship options, they are making the right choice for their career.
Internships in Germany for students
Take your own step towards European integration with an internship in Germany.
Learn more about internships
Why choose Germany for an internship?
Educational standards
This country ranks among the best countries for higher education. Foreigners can study for free if they have enough money in their account to cover their living expenses.
Cutting-edge technology
Germany is supportive of technological development, which is why it ranks among the world leaders in research patents.
European market
The most famous industry is automotive manufacturing. The German economy is China’s strongest competitor in the world. No other European country is capable of this.
High income
Germans have a whole system of minimum wages, divided by specialty. Each profession has its own minimum income level, so it is impossible to undercut wages and devalue a specialist.
Who can participate in an internship in Germany
Qualifications
As part of internship programs in Germany, it is only permitted to practice skills in a company in a position that corresponds to the student’s specialty. It is not possible to change positions without qualifications.
Level of education
Only students who have completed for at least 4 semesters at a higher or vocational education institution can participate in an internship.
Specializations
Earth sciences, natural sciences, computer technology, business, engineering, medicine, law, avaition, and economics.
Language skills
To maximize your opportunities, you need to learn German. While educational institutions are actively developing programs in English, relying solely on English significantly narrows the search for internship opportunities.
Compliance with requirements
The diploma of a Ukrainian citizen who wishes to intern in Germany must meet the requirements of the German system for the recognition of higher education diplomas. The Anabin database was created for verification purposes.
What opportunities does an internship in Germany offer?
Receive compensation
An internship in Germany is especially relevant for Ukrainians who need financial assistance, as interns there receive compensation in accordance with the minimum wage for each specialist.
Offer
Every intern is a potential employee. There is always a chance to stay with the company after the internship period. If a young person fits in with the team or demonstrates professionalism at work, they will be considered in 90% of cases.
Strengthening your resume
If an intern does not work in Germany, they will have a strong case in their list of competencies. Employers and recruiters consider this a significant achievement and will gladly consider such a candidate.
Where are internships held in Germany?
In key areas of economic prosperity and professional activity
Cities
Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt am Main, and Cologne
Industries
Education, media and public relations, sales, IT, management and administration, energy, engineering, ecology, charity, marketing, and others.
Companies
VAG automotive group, Siemens, Bosch, SAP, Allianz, Metro, and Kaufland. Leading financial and consulting organizations like PwC and Commerzbank, as well as John Deere and Deutsche Bahn.
What AP University recommends
Check your documents
See if your education meets the internship requirements
Trust only official sources
If you have difficult questions and cannot find information on local resources, try calling the hotline of the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs in Germany.
Visa
Find out exactly what documents are required for a visa by contacting the German Embassy.
Company
To get an internship, you also need to clarify all the conditions and requirements directly with the company’s representative office or its trusted intermediary — an agent or recruiter.
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Frequently asked questions about internships in Germany
What level of language proficiency is required for an internship in Germany?
It depends on the company and industry. International firms and STEM projects often accept even English, while German companies usually require at least a basic knowledge of the language (levels A2-B2). But the more prestigious the brand, the higher its requirements. To prove your level, you will need official certificates such as Goethe, TestDaF, or TOEFL/IELTS, for English.
Is it possible to do an internship without knowing German?
Language is a key requirement for anyone going on an internship. If a student has a low or zero level of German, they will not be able to pass the exam, and without a certificate, the company will not consider their application. Therefore, it is impossible to do an internship without knowing German.
What documents are required to participate in an internship?
Usually, you need:
- An internship agreement (specifying duration, pay, etc.);
- An internship plan;
- Medical insurance;
- Education documents (diploma and transcript of records);
- Resume (Lebenslauf);
- Language certificate.
All documents must be translated into German, but the list must be clarified with the institution, as there are no universal requirements.
How long does an internship in Germany last?
The maximum duration is 12 months. The internship can be divided into several parts, but each part requires a new permit, i.e., an agreement with the company and the employer. There are other terms, such as for students who have this provided for in their course of study.
Do I need a visa for an internship in Germany?
For Ukrainian citizens with a biometric foreign passport who are doing a short-term internship of up to 90 days under the ZAV program, a visa is not required. If there is no confirmation of this program, the situation is different. To stay in the country for more than 90 days or without supporting projects, you need a type D national visa, which you should apply for at the embassy.
Is the internship in Germany paid?
The minimum hourly wage by law is €9.19/hour, which means that for 40 hours/week, an intern receives €1,470 per month. But the cost varies everywhere. If the internship is mandatory under the educational program, as in many German educational institutions, it is considered unpaid.
Is there any assistance with accommodation during the internship?
Many programs provide for this. One of the two parties — the company or the institution — provides accommodation in dormitories, campuses, and apartments with comfortable conditions. Sometimes, if necessary, transportation from the accommodation to the workplace is also provided.
Can I stay in Germany after the internship?
Yes, many interns stay. After the internship period ends, students can renew their residence permit by contacting the local immigration office. It is also possible to switch to a work visa if the employer offers a contract.