Internships in the United Kingdom

Finance and banking

Secure prestigious internships in the UK's finance and banking sector, particularly in London, which offer abundant opportunities in investment banking, asset management, financial consulting, and accounting.

Technology and IT

The UK should be a top choice if you’re looking for cutting-edge tech internships. Here, you can find paid and unpaid internships in software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and digital marketing.

Engineering

Explore hands-on engineering internships in the UK, spanning aerospace, automotive, civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering, and contribute to major infrastructure projects and technological advancements.

Creative industries

Immerse yourself in the UK’s iconic creative scene by interning in film, television, advertising, fashion, design, or gaming. With opportunities in production companies, marketing agencies, fashion houses, and design studios, internships in the UK offer the chance to work on exciting projects and develop sought-after creative skills.

London, England

London is the prime destination for internships in the UK. It’s both a global financial center and an up-and-comer in the tech space, making it the perfect jumping-off point for gaining career experience in these industries. Interning in the UK's capital city provides exposure to top industries and global companies.

Manchester, England

Known for its thriving arts and music scene, Manchester is popular for internships in the creative industries and media and journalism sectors in the UK. It's a city where you can both work and place: gain experience while immersing yourself in the dynamic world of media and creative arts.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh offers unique internship opportunities in tourism, hospitality, and event management in the UK, making it an ideal city for those interested in enhancing their resumes in the travel and events spheres. With its colorful history and prestigious universities, it's also a hub for internships in education and research-related fields.

Cardiff, Wales

Cardiff, the capital city of Wales, is a great place to dive into the engineering industry, with opportunities spanning automotive, aerospace, and civil engineering. Interning in Cardiff provides valuable industry exposure in this competitive field and the chance to work on impactful projects in the UK.

When searching for internships in the UK, there are various avenues to explore. One option is to apply through an internship program provider that specializes in matching candidates with suitable work experience placements in the United Kingdom. This provides you with a streamlined and curated experience along with visa support and help with the relocation process.

Additionally, the Go Overseas internship job board is a valuable resource for finding internships in the UK, offering a wide range of listings across industries and locations.

While requirements may be different depending on the country, industry, and organization, these are generally the steps you’ll need to follow to land an internship in the UK.

1. Check that you meet the eligibility requirements, especially academic, language, and visa qualifications: Meet academic qualifications specified by employers or internship programs, demonstrate proficiency in the English language, and obtain the appropriate visa, such as the Tier 5 visa.
2. Prepare your application materials, such as your resume (CV), cover letter, portfolio, and/or personal statement of purpose: Tailor your application materials to showcase your relevant skills, experiences, and academic achievements, highlighting why you are a strong candidate for internships in the UK.
3. Submit any necessary documents or paperwork: Provide supporting documents required by the internship providers, such as official transcripts, reference letters, and any additional forms or paperwork necessary for the application process.
4. Prepare for the interview! Research the company or organization offering the internship and practice common interview questions to demonstrate your enthusiasm, knowledge, and suitability for the position you are applying for in the UK.
5. Apply for a visa: You’ll need to apply for a visa to legally intern in the UK. Familiarize yourself with the visa requirements and procedures and make sure to apply in a timely manner to allow for processing time before your intended internship start date in the UK.

Adapting to the UK's work culture and office etiquette enhances your intern experience, fosters professional growth, and builds lasting connections in a diverse business environment.

Work culture & office etiquette

1. Addressing coworkers and superiors: Use appropriate titles and last names to show respect and professionalism, transitioning to a more casual form of address over time.
2. Greetings and communication: Build rapport with firm handshakes, direct eye contact, and polite phrases while being tactful and indirect in your speech.
3. Formality and professionalism: Prioritize punctuality, meet deadlines, maintain a concise yet courteous communication style, and use a formal tone in written correspondence. Refrain from discussing politics, particularly on touchy subjects like Northern Ireland.
4. Dress codes: Adhere to appropriate attire guidelines, ranging from formal business wear to smart casual, aiming to be slightly overdressed.
5. Office etiquette: Respect personal space, minimize disruptions, be mindful of noise levels, and maintain cleanliness in shared spaces while taking tea or coffee breaks for informal conversations.
6. Embracing diversity and inclusion: Foster a welcoming environment, embracing diversity, being open to different perspectives, and avoiding assumptions or generalizations.

Language

1. English proficiency is a vital requirement for internships in the UK, as it is the primary working language.
2. Internships in the UK offer an excellent opportunity for interns to enhance their English language skills in a professional environment.
3. It's important to be culturally sensitive to regional variations in accents, vocabulary, and communication styles while interning in different parts of the United Kingdom.