Germany stands as a leading global economy, renowned for its innovation, robust industries, and excellent educational institutions. For international students, it offers an incredible opportunity to gain invaluable professional experience through internships.
If you’re looking to launch or advance your career, an internship in Germany in 2026 could be your stepping stone to success. But navigating the application process, understanding visa requirements, and finding the right fit can feel overwhelming. This blog post is your comprehensive guide to securing a rewarding internship in Germany, ensuring you’re well-prepared for this exciting journey.
Internships in Germany for International Students
1. DAAD RISE Germany / RISE Professional
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers highly sought-after research and professional internships.
- DAAD RISE Germany: For Bachelor students from North American, British, and Irish universities in science and engineering fields.
- DAAD RISE Professional: For Master and Ph.D. students, or recent graduates from North American, British, or Irish universities, seeking practical experience in companies or non-university research institutions with industry ties.
Eligibility Criteria:
- RISE Germany: Enrolled Bachelor’s student at a university in North America, Great Britain, or Ireland. Strong academic record. Field of study in science or engineering. German language skills are not strictly required as working language is often English.
- RISE Professional: Master’s or Ph.D. student, or recent graduate (within 6 months of graduation) from a North American, British, or Irish university. Background in biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, earth science, or engineering.
Application Process:
- Search Database: The internship database typically opens between October and November of the year prior to the internship (e.g., October-November 2025 for 2026 internships).
- Online Application: Apply online through the DAAD portal.
- Required Documents: CV, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a motivational letter.
- Matching: DAAD matches qualified students with host institutions.
Typical Deadlines (for 2026 internships):
- Database Opens: Mid-October to end of November 2025.
- Application Submission: End of November 2025.
- Letters of Recommendation: Mid-December 2025.
- Announcement of Positions: February/March 2026.
2. Max Planck Institutes Internships
The Max Planck Society is a leading research organization in Germany, offering internships in various scientific fields. Many institutes offer fully funded research internships.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral students.
- Often specific to fields like Computer Science, Physics, Biology, etc., depending on the institute and project.
- Age limits may apply (e.g., under 25 for some programs).
- Strong academic background. English is usually the working language.
Application Process:
- Identify Institute/Project: Research specific Max Planck Institutes and their research groups.
- Online Application: Apply via the institute’s dedicated application portal.
- Required Documents: CV, transcripts, contact information for references, and an optional motivation letter.
Typical Deadlines:
- Applications are often accepted year-round, but for summer internships, it’s advisable to apply at least 5 months in advance. Some programs might have specific annual deadlines (e.g., November 1st for internships starting the following May).
3. Siemens AG Internships
Siemens is a global technology powerhouse with extensive internship opportunities in engineering, IT, digital industries, and more.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Enrolled university student (Bachelor’s or Master’s) or recent graduate.
- Relevant field of study (e.g., engineering, computer science, business, finance).
- Strong academic performance.
- Good English language skills; German is often a plus, especially for local teams.
Application Process:
- Online Job Portal: Search for “Praktikum” (internship) on the Siemens Careers website.
- Online Application: Submit your application through their portal.
- Required Documents: CV, cover letter, relevant certificates, and academic transcripts.
- Interviews: Selected candidates may undergo online assessments or interviews.
Typical Deadlines:
- Internships are advertised throughout the year. It’s recommended to apply 3-6 months in advance, especially for popular fields.
4. BMW Group Internships
For those interested in the automotive industry, BMW offers a wide range of internships in engineering, design, IT, marketing, and more.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Enrolled university student (Bachelor’s or Master’s) or recent graduate.
- Relevant field of study.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Good English skills; German proficiency is beneficial.
Application Process:
- BMW Careers Portal: Search for “Internship” on the BMW Group careers website.
- Online Application: Submit your CV, cover letter, and relevant academic documents.
- Selection Process: Includes online tests, video interviews, or assessment centers.
Typical Deadlines:
- Internships are posted continuously. Apply several months ahead of your desired start date.
5. Bosch Internships
Robert Bosch GmbH is a multinational engineering and technology company with diverse internship opportunities in areas like automotive technology, industrial technology, consumer goods, and energy.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Enrolled university student (Bachelor’s or Master’s) or recent graduate.
- Studies related to the internship area (e.g., mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, business administration).
- Proficiency in English; German skills are a significant advantage.
Application Process:
- Bosch Career Portal: Find internship vacancies on the Bosch Global Careers website.
- Online Application: Upload your CV, cover letter, and academic records.
- Recruitment Steps: May involve online tests, phone interviews, and on-site interviews.
Typical Deadlines:
- Internships are offered year-round. It’s advisable to apply 4-6 months before your intended start date.
6. Mercedes-Benz (Daimler AG) Internships
Another automotive giant, Mercedes-Benz offers internships for students and graduates passionate about innovation in mobility, manufacturing, and digital services.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Enrolled university student or recent graduate.
- Study background aligned with the internship (e.g., automotive engineering, software development, business, finance).
- Strong communication skills.
- Proficiency in English; German is highly valued.
Application Process:
- Daimler Careers: Explore internship opportunities on the Daimler AG careers website.
- Online Application: Submit a compelling application with your CV, academic records, and a cover letter.
- Selection: Includes various stages like online assessments and interviews.
Typical Deadlines:
- Rolling applications, with new positions frequently added. Aim to apply well in advance, generally 3-6 months.
7. SAP SE Internships
SAP, a world leader in enterprise software, offers internships in software development, data science, consulting, marketing, and more, particularly in their Walldorf headquarters.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Enrolled university student (Bachelor’s or Master’s) or recent graduate in a relevant field (e.g., computer science, information systems, business).
- Strong analytical and technical skills.
- Excellent English communication; German is a plus.
Application Process:
- SAP Careers Page: Search for “Internship” opportunities on the SAP careers website.
- Online Application: Submit your CV, cover letter, and academic transcripts.
- Interview Rounds: Typically includes technical and behavioral interviews.
Typical Deadlines:
- Internships are posted year-round. Apply as early as possible, ideally 3-5 months prior.
8. Deutsche Bank Internships
For students interested in finance, banking, and related fields, Deutsche Bank provides internship programs in various divisions such as investment banking, corporate banking, technology, and risk management.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Enrolled university student (Bachelor’s or Master’s), usually in penultimate or final year.
- Relevant degree (e.g., finance, economics, business, quantitative fields, computer science).
- Strong analytical, quantitative, and communication skills.
- Fluency in English is essential; German is an advantage.
Application Process:
- Deutsche Bank Careers: Apply through their official careers portal.
- Online Application: Submit your CV and cover letter.
- Online Assessments: May include numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and situational judgment tests.
- Interviews: Competency-based and technical interviews.
Typical Deadlines:
- Application periods for summer internships often open in the preceding autumn (e.g., Autumn 2025 for Summer 2026 internships) and can close quickly due to high demand. Off-cycle internships are also available.
9. GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit) Internships
GIZ is a German development agency offering internships focused on international cooperation, sustainable development, and various related fields.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Students or recent graduates (often with a degree in economics, administration, political science, law, regional studies, communications, environmental and social sciences, agriculture, forestry, business, ICT, geography, or vocational pedagogy).
- Strong intercultural and team-working skills.
- Good knowledge of MS Office.
- Proficiency in German is often required or highly preferred, in addition to English.
Application Process:
- GIZ Job Portal: Search for “Internship” on the GIZ website.
- Online Application: Apply for advertised positions only; unsolicited applications are generally not accepted.
- Selection: Varies depending on the role.
Typical Deadlines:
- Internships are advertised year-round. The PR Traineeship, for example, is expected to be advertised again in 2026. Keep checking their job portal for current vacancies.
10. Various University Research Internships
Beyond the DAAD and Max Planck programs, many German universities and research institutions offer direct research internships. These are often project-based and vary widely.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Enrolled university student (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.).
- Relevant academic background and strong interest in specific research areas.
- Often require a letter of motivation, CV, and academic transcripts.
- Language requirements depend on the research group and project (English is common in many scientific fields).
Application Process:
- University Websites: Explore the websites of German universities (e.g., Technical University of Munich, Heidelberg University, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, RWTH Aachen University). Look for faculty or department pages for “internship” or “research assistant” opportunities.
- Direct Contact: Some opportunities may involve directly contacting professors or research group leaders whose work aligns with your interests.
- Required Documents: Typically, a CV, cover letter/motivation letter, academic transcripts, and sometimes letters of recommendation.
Typical Deadlines:
- Highly variable. Some are advertised with specific deadlines, while others are open until filled. It’s best to apply 4-8 months in advance for summer or semester-long internships.
Conclusion
Embarking on an internship in Germany in 2026 is more than just a line on your CV; it’s an immersive experience that promises professional growth, cultural enrichment, and a significant boost to your global career prospects. From the cutting-edge innovation of companies like Siemens and BMW to the vital research conducted at Max Planck Institutes, Germany offers unparalleled opportunities across diverse sectors.
By thoroughly understanding the eligibility criteria, preparing a meticulous application, and being proactive in your search, you can navigate the path to securing a highly sought-after position.