Looking to land an internship in France as a student? Discover top industries, eligibility criteria, required documents, and where to apply for internships in France.
Why Do an Internship in France?
An internship in France offers more than just job training—it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a rich cultural experience, improve your language skills, and build an international professional network. France is home to globally recognized industries including fashion, culinary arts, engineering, and finance, making it an ideal destination for aspiring professionals.
Popular Types of Internships in France
France offers a wide variety of internship opportunities across multiple sectors:
- Corporate Internships – Marketing, Finance, Business Development
- Technology Internships – Engineering, Information Technology, Data Science
- Hospitality & Culinary Internships – Hotels, Restaurants, Food Services
- Research & Academic Internships – Labs, Universities, Think Tanks
- Creative Industries – Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Film, Art Studios
Why Choose France for Your Internship?
Here are compelling reasons to consider France for your internship abroad:
- Access to multinational corporations and startups
- Opportunities in top global sectors like fashion, luxury goods, tech, and cuisine
- A chance to enhance your resume with international work experience
- Cultural exposure and the opportunity to learn French
Who Can Apply for an Internship in France?
Internships in France are open to both domestic and international students. You may qualify if you are:
- A student from the EU/EEA (no visa required)
- A non-EU student with a valid French student visa
- A recent graduate, depending on the company’s internship policy
Note: If you’re a non-EU student, your internship must comply with visa requirements. Internships longer than 2 months must include a signed internship agreement and are subject to minimum monthly compensation.
Requirements to Apply for an Internship in France
To be eligible, you typically need the following:
- Internship Agreement (“Convention de Stage”) – A legal contract between the student, employer, and academic institution
- Updated CV – Highlighting your academic and professional background
- Cover Letter or Motivational Letter – Tailored to the position and company
- Language Proficiency – While English may suffice, knowledge of French is a significant advantage
How to Find an Internship in France
Here are the most effective ways to secure an internship:
1. University Career Services
French universities often help students connect with employers through existing partnerships.
2. Job Portals
- Welcome to the Jungle
- JobTeaser
- Internships.com
- LinkedIn – Set your location to France
3. Company Career Pages
Many companies in France list internship opportunities directly on their websites. Focus on companies relevant to your field and check their careers section regularly.