Internships: Frequently asked questions

You should have at least a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent. Usually, we also give internships to students in the final years of their university studies. It’s an advantage if you have already completed one or more internships elsewhere.

Internships last at least three months, although it would be better if you were able to spend four to six months with us.

You can begin your internship at any time, but ideally you should submit your application three months before the date you would like to start.

Internships take place at the Bertelsmann Stiftung’s main office in Gütersloh.

Please include the exact dates that you would be available and the areas that you would like to do your internship in (e.g. the projects or programs). That will allow us to ascertain where an internship is possible. Please also indicate whether you are applying for a mandatory internship or whether you wish to complete a voluntary internship.

Possibilities for doing a thesis are limited and are only feasible in conjunction with an internship.

Approximately 50-60 qualified candidates complete a professional internship at the Bertelsmann Stiftung each year.

Yes. The amount of pay an intern receives will be individually determined taking into account the legal requirements.

You are very welcome to join us as an international intern, especially given Bertelsmann Stiftung’s increasingly international focus. We therefore accept applications in English.

Please make sure that you meet the following requirements:

• Good command of German (the foundation’s working language is German)
• Excellent command of English
• Intercultural skills
• Some practical experience

Please also remember that you need to apply well in advance (4–6 months), since you may need a visa and a work permit. If you are an enrolled student, we will help you apply for your work permit.