Are you an international student dreaming of gaining hands-on professional experience while immersing yourself in Germany’s globally respected work culture and research landscape? The 2025 internship cycle in Germany offers you multiple fully or partially funded programs that combine world-class mentorship, cultural exchange, and real-world learning. Whether you are interested in high-tech industries, international diplomacy, scientific research, or startup ecosystems—Germany has an internship tailored to you.
Let’s walk you through the top internship programs, what they offer, who can apply, and how to secure your spot for the upcoming cycle.
Why Consider an Internship in Germany?
Germany is one of Europe’s leading economic powerhouses and home to many globally renowned companies, research institutions, and international organizations. Doing an internship here allows you to:
- Build international networks
- Sharpen your language and intercultural skills
- Gain domain-specific experience in a highly developed professional environment
- Strengthen your resume with globally competitive experience
Choosing the Right Internship for You
Before applying, reflect on your goals. Ask yourself:
- Do I want exposure to global business operations?
- Is my priority gaining academic research experience?
- Am I looking to enhance my language and cultural skills?
- Do I want to explore opportunities in diplomacy, development, or tech startups?
Based on your answers, here are the top internship pathways you can apply for in 2025:
1# RISE Worldwide (Research Internships in Science and Engineering)
For: Bachelor’s students in natural sciences, engineering, computer science, medicine, pharmacy, and life sciences.
Type: Research Internship at universities, research institutes, and industry.
Duration: 1.5 to 3 months (June to October)
Language: Mostly English
Support: Monthly scholarship (€950–€1,550), Travel allowance, Health, accident, and liability insurance.
2# Carlo Schmid Programme (Internships at International Organizations)
For: Students with at least 3 semesters completed or recent graduates (within 2 years).
Type: Internships in EU institutions, UN agencies, or international NGOs.
Duration: Up to 6 months
Requirements: C1 English proficiency, strong academic record
Support: Monthly stipend (country-dependent), travel allowance, family benefits (if applicable), and full insurance coverage.
3# IAESTE (International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience)
For: Students enrolled in technical and scientific fields
Type: Paid internships in industry or research institutes globally
Duration: 2–3 months (typically July to October)
Support: Paid internship, accommodation support, and DAAD travel subsidy.
4# New Kibbutz – Internships in Israeli Startups
For: Bachelor’s/Master’s students at German universities or Germans at third-country institutions
Type: Internship in Israeli high-tech startups (via AHK)
Duration: 56 days to 6 months
Support: Monthly stipend, travel cost coverage, health, accident, and liability insurance, and placement fee paid by DAAD.
5# HAW.International
For: Students from German Universities of Applied Sciences (HAWs/UAS)
Type: Internship at institutions/companies (self-organized or DAAD-arranged)
Duration: 2 to 6 months
Support: Monthly scholarship (€1,025–€1,525), travel allowance.
