IAESTE (International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience)/DAAD - IAESTE Internships

What an IAESTE internship gives you

You will be offered a paid placement abroad in the fields of natural sciences, engineering or agriculture and forestry, arranged through IAESTE. IAESTE places students in more than 80 countries. In Germany, the national committee is run by the DAAD. Most placements last 2 to 3 months, usually between July and October. Some last up to 12 months. The company abroad pays you, and the remuneration usually covers your living costs in the host country. How much you earn depends on the placement and the country. The figure of 992 EUR per month given in the information box is the standard remuneration for interns coming to Germany; you should therefore use it as a rough guide rather than as an indication of what you will earn abroad. Upon application and subject to availability, you may be eligible for a travel allowance. Otherwise, you will have to cover the costs of your travel within the EU, as well as to Switzerland, Norway and Liechtenstein, yourself.

Who can apply

• Where you study: You are enrolled at a state or state-recognised higher education institution in Germany, or on an accredited Bachelor’s degree programme at a German vocational academy. You will remain enrolled for the duration of the work placement.
• Study stage: You must be in at least your second semester (the second half of your first year of study). Master’s students are also eligible to apply.
• Field of study: You are studying natural sciences, engineering or agriculture and forestry.
• Nationality: Applicants of all nationalities are welcome to apply, provided they are studying at a German university.
• Grades: You’re doing well at school.
• Languages: You have a sufficient command of English for the role, as evidenced by an English language certificate that is no more than 3 years old. Knowledge of the local language is an advantage.

How to apply

You can register on the IAESTE exchange platform (www.iaeste.net) at any time of year. Upload an English CV, a transcript and proof of enrolment to activate your account and browse the internship opportunities. Register between September and mid-January to take part in the main placement round in February. Each opportunity has its own application deadline.

How realistic are your chances?

Only students of natural sciences, engineering and agricultural sciences who meet the requirements regarding their stage of study and language proficiency may apply; consequently, the pool of applicants is smaller than for open scholarships. You are not applying for a fixed number of scholarships, but instead applying for specific internship opportunities. Good grades and a solid English language certificate will help you stand out from the crowd. Apply early, before the February round, as the best opportunities are snapped up quickly.