Finding an internship

We recommend that all undergraduates complete at least two internships during their studies (these could be internships over the summer or credit-bearing placements during term time). We would recommend that one of these two is a full summer-long internship lasting 6-12 weeks. Internships do not necessarily need to be related to your core discipline – what matters however is that you use internships to explore sectors and organisations that might be of interest to you in the future. Read more in our guide to getting a summer internship.

Internships FAQs

Making a good application

For a typical internship application, it is likely that you will need both a CV and a cover letter that detail the experience and skills you have gained so far.

A cover letter is a formal letter that is sent to an employer with a CV. This should detail why you are interested in the role with the aim of introducing yourself and inviting the employer to read your CV.

You can read our advice about making successful CVs and applications and, once you have put your application together, make sure to get your application checked by one of our Careers Consultants in a 1:1 appointment – book via MyJobsOnline.

Paid and Unpaid

Paid internships

If you are classed as a 'worker' whilst undertaking an internship, you should be paid at least the National Minimum Wage (NMW).

You can find all the details about this on the government website. Please do remember to speak to Careers if you need any advice.

Unpaid internships

In some sectors, it is more commonplace to find organisations offering unpaid internships.

If you’d like any more guidance, or want to find out more, read about the rights of interns.

Securing your own internship

If you’ve looked through advertised opportunities online and can’t find what you are looking for, why not try finding or creating your own internship?

Whilst the employer may not have a formal scheme or programme, if you are resourceful they may be able to offer you some form of experience (ranging from work shadowing to paid work – just remember to be flexible!). This kind of approach is called making a speculative application.

The benefits of undertaking an internship

Experience: An internship will give you a taste of what graduate work is like. This relevant experience and industry knowledge will be valuable on your CV and when applying to roles in the future.

Future work: This is your chance to determine whether a certain job or career path is for you. An opportunity such as an internship can also give you a chance of getting your foot in the door.

Skills Development: Develop your skills in a particular field or industry. An internship will also provide you with a chance to increase your confidence and discover how to showcase professional values.

Networking: Grow your professional network and create your own contacts in this sector.

What funding is available?

If you have sourced your own unpaid internship, you may be eligible for support towards living costs, please view our Reading Internship Scheme bursary page to find out more.

Where can I stay?

If you are thinking about accommodation whilst completing an internship, you could consider the STAY@Reading initiative. You could also check out Higherin about how to find accommodation when you move to London for an internship. We also recommend you take a look at Room for tea.

View the latest live Internships on MyJobsOnline

Where To Find Internships:

Internships FAQs