Introduction
Securing an internship is a crucial step in:
- gaining valuable work experience
- expanding your professional network,
- and enhancing your future career prospects.
Internships provide you with the opportunity to gain valuable work experience, insights and skills over a set period of time. This ranges from 1 to 3 months over the summer for students, and up to a year for graduates. The aims and expectations as an intern vary depending on the company and role you are interested in.
Benefits of doing an internship
- Build and develop transferable skills
- Put theory into practice
- Gain insights into different industries, sectors and companies
- Build networks and make connections
Information for York Campus Students
YSJ Internship Programmes
Our internship programmes are ever growing and developing to meet your needs. Over the academic year, we offer a range of internships to students and graduates. We work with Academic and Professional Services within York St John, and with local employers and organisations, for you to gain real work-based learning opportunities.
We offer two programmes for current students:
- Summer Internship Programme
- On Campus Internship Programme
Summer Internship Programme
This programme is launched in March each year for you to summit an expression of interest in the programme. Internships are part-time, between June and September and paid. Most internship are in York or with in the region and will be hybrid or in person.
On Campus Internship Programme
This programme offers internship within York St John York Campus working in areas across the campus. These internships are advertised around October and January, are part-time and paid. Areas where we have offered On Campus Internship in the past are:
- the Institute for Social Justice
- the Communities Centre
- the Haxby Road Sports Park
- Living Lab
Graduate Internship Programme
Our Graduate Internship Programme forms part of our support for graduating students, giving them the opportunity to gain more skills and experience before finding a full-time graduate role.
Other ways to secure an internship
Handshake
Handshake is used by companies and universities across the UK and so you will find a lot of opportunities on the platform. All of the organisations that you see as a student on Handshake have been approved by us. We have ensured that they are appropriate opportunities for you to engage in, and that all due diligence has been done.
RateMyPlacement
Despite the name, RateMyPlacement provides information and advertises relevant roles to students across different types of opportunities. RateMyPlacement has articles to provide insights into internships and also provides reviews on employers from students who have engaged with them.
Prospects
Like RateMyPlacement, Prospects covers a range of opportunities, but the main difference is that the information and guidance on the website is provided by current careers advisers from universities across the UK. They also advertise internship opportunities.
Information for London Campus Students
As an international student in the UK, you may face additional challenges such as visa restrictions, competition from home students, and a lack of familiarity with the UK job market. However, with the right approach, strategies, and support, you can successfully find an internship that aligns with your career ambitions.
Understanding your visa conditions
Before applying for internships, it is essential to understand the working restrictions linked to your student visa.
Please submit a case through the Student Hub online portal for assistance and up-to-date guidance from our Visa and Compliance team.
Strategies for finding an internship
Make Use of the University Careers Services
At York St John University London Campus, the Careers and Student Opportunities team offers tailored support for international students seeking internships. You can access:
- 1-2-1 careers appointments incl. CV, cover letter and application support
- employer events, onsite careers fairs, and internship listings via Handshake
via Handshake. All are designed to help you confidently navigate the UK job market.
Tailor your CV and cover letter
Ensure your CV and cover letter meet UK standards. Highlight:
- relevant academic achievements
- technical skills
- any experience (whether in the UK or abroad)
that demonstrates your potential. Keep your CV concise, ideally no more than 2 pages, and make your motivation for applying clear.
Research employers carefully
Some companies may be more open to hiring international students than others. Look into global corporations, multinational firms, and organisations with a track record of supporting international talent. Equally, do not overlook SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) and start-ups, which may offer more flexible and hands-on internship roles.
Search online
Use online platforms like LinkedIn, TargetJobs, Bright Network, RateMyPlacement, and Prospects to find internships. Set alerts for roles in your area of interest and make a habit of checking regularly.
Networking and making connections
Networking plays a vital role in securing internships in the UK. Try the following:
- Attend York St John University-run employer events and careers fairs
- Join LinkedIn and connect with professionals or alumni in your field
- Join academic or professional societies relevant to your discipline, and
- Speak with lecturers or personal tutors who may have industry contacts.
Overcoming common challenges
It’s normal to face setbacks, especially when applying for competitive internships. Stay positive, learn from each application, and do not hesitate to seek feedback. Be open to different types of internships – including virtual, unpaid, or short-term roles – especially if they offer valuable experience or connections.
Conclusion
While finding an internship as an international student in the UK can be challenging, it is certainly achievable with preparation, persistence, and the right support.
- Make full use of York St John University resources
- Tailor your applications carefully, and
- Actively build your professional network.
The skills and experience gained through internships will provide a solid foundation for your future career, whether in the UK or abroad.
Resources:
Handshake – York St John University careers platform: https://yorksj.joinhandshake.co.uk
Log in with your York St John University email to access part-time jobs, internships, volunteering roles, employer events, and book careers appointments.
Prospects – Work experience and internships: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/jobs-and-work-experience/work-experience-and-internships
A comprehensive UK careers site offering advice and listings for internships and work experience opportunities.
TargetJobs – Internships and placements: https://targetjobs.co.uk/careers-advice/internships
A popular graduate careers website with sector-specific internship guides, employer insights, and application tips.
RateMyPlacement: https://www.ratemyplacement.co.uk
Search for student placements, internships, and insights from previous interns across UK-based companies.
Bright Network: https://www.brightnetwork.co.uk
Offers internship listings, free virtual experiences, and employer connections for students and recent graduates.
UKCISA – Working During Your Studies: https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/student-advice/working/working-in-the-uk/
Official advice for international students in the UK on working conditions, including internships and part-time work.