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Intern UK
London called. It said: Want to spend your summer or semester abroad getting ahead or wondering what’s next after graduation? Put your career on the map with a professional internship in the UK.
Here’s the British tea
We’re putting our serious hat on for a sec. The pointy graduation one. Getting practical work experience can be essential to nailing that first job after college. A cultural, creative and corporate superpower – working in the UK can add serious gravitas to your resume. Attracting talent from across the globe in every sector from technology to the arts – you’ll learn from professionals in your field, build your network and grow your skillset. All while living in one of the most diverse and dynamic places in the world.
It would say on the tin...
We provide the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), Temporary Work Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa support, and placement vetting to intern for 1-12 months anywhere in the UK. Don't have a UK internship lined up yet? Check out our Intern Hub - packed with practical tools, templates and a UK employer database to help with your search.
Intern UK works for...
Current students looking to use your summer break or semester abroad to get valuable short-term work experience or academic credit as part of your degree. Or if you’ve graduated in the last two years, it's a unique window to come to the UK for up to 12 months – boosting your employability and increasing your earning potential before you permanently enter the job market.
Is it for me?
From USD $1,575
18+
All nationalities (except UK)
Full-time student or grad
1-12 months in duration
Depart any time of year
Great for uni summers
Reasons to do a UK internship
Professional experience
Turn your academic achievements into professional work experience. In a competitive job market, immersing yourself in a different cultural and business environment can help to set you apart from other candidates.
Cultural exposure
The UK is known for being multicultural and forward-thinking. In an increasingly inter-connected world where a global POV is essential, you’ll live and work alongside people from every country, culture and background.
European perspective
A 4-in-1 deal for your British bucket and spade list, you can live and intern in England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland. Plus, the historic capitals and ancient ruins of Europe are just a quick hop across the channel.
Why us?
Internship in the UK experts
We’ve worked closely with the UK Government since 2009 to launch this unique program for students and graduates. Our sibling company, BUNAC, is one of the largest and oldest A-rated sponsors for the Temporary Work GAE visa required to intern in the UK.
Visa + cost
The Temporary Work GAE visa is the UK internship visa for international students and graduates – and allows you to come to the UK for a temporary period to do short-term work experience. To apply, you must have a UK Government approved sponsor (that’s us), meet the eligibility criteria below (that’s you), and have a paid or unpaid internship placement offer from a UK company (more on this down the page).
Other than UK passport holders, we can sponsor all nationalities to intern in the UK – including overseas students currently studying at a UK university.
Deposit
USD $115
Second payment
USD $1,460
Total
USD $1,575
What’s not included
6+ month internships
For placements over 6 months, an additional employer compliance visit is required. A cost of £150 will be added to your program fee
UK visa fee
Paid directly to UKVI (UK Visa and Immigration) and currently costs £298
Support funds
You must be able to show you have £1,270 when entering the UK
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Required for placements over 6 months and costs £1,035
Site visit
If we need to visit your UK employer, this costs £100. Jump to FAQs for more
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is a program requirement. Jump to FAQs for more
Flights
We don’t recommend booking flights until your visa is approved
SELT/IELTS
If English isn’t your first language, jump to FAQs for more
Travel after your internship
Get 10% off worldwide Contiki trips! Friends = benefits
Good to know
Balancing profit with purpose, JENZA only works for us if it works for others too. We donate 5% of profits to our Youth Access Scholarship Fund so that young people from under-served and lower-income backgrounds can experience working overseas. Find out more and apply for scholarship funding.
Sixth largest economy in the world
The UK is one of the leading places in the world to intern. From big multinationals and international non-profits to independent start-ups, the UK hosts every type of business under the sun. (And despite the rainy reputation, we do get a lot of that too!).
Internships
Other than working in the hospitality or healthcare sector, we can sponsor you to intern in most fields. From interning at Premier League football clubs to world-famous London museums – past interns have done marketing internships, fashion internships, accounting internships, architectural internships, law internships, publishing internships, finance internships and more. And unlike other student or grad visas, your UK internship doesn’t have to be connected to your academic field – giving you the freedom to get experience in a sector that’s aligned with your future career goals, not just your degree subject.
About your internship
You can do one internship, for between 1-12 months, and it can be a paid or voluntary (unpaid) position.
Finding your internship
You’re responsible for finding your own UK internship, but don’t worry if you don’t have your position secured. From defining your career goals to building your personal brand and prepping for interviews - you'll find start to finish guidance on our Intern Hub. Plus, handy downloadable templates for emails, resumes, visa letters and more. You'll also find a database of UK employers where past interns have worked, and a list of recommended paid placement partners who can help with your search.
Intern UK in numbers
15
The years we’ve been a government sponsor
4
Number of countries you can intern in
1966
JENZA Group's first UK student exchange program
10/10
Your resume after your UK internship
Criteria for your internship
When searching for your internship...
Let prospective employers know from the outset that you'll be securing sponsorship to intern in the UK through JENZA. The cost and immigration red tape for UK employers to take on international interns can often be a barrier, but Intern UK takes care of that. All you need from them is an internship offer. We'll then work with you and your employer to make sure your placement meets the sponsorship requirements. Your position must be:
Check out our FAQs for more.
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1
The culture
Work hard play hard
The British workplace is known for being diverse and inclusive, and so it's a great place to grow personally as well as professionally – picking up the kind of soft skills and cultural sensitivity that is valued in any future role. The British work hard/play hard ethic is also world-renowned. Which means you’ll likely work your socks off – but do so with a bunch of fun new workmates and a city of post-work pubs, restaurants and parks to explore.
2
The size
Small is beautiful
Britain is small and imperfectly formed – with mountains, cliffs and jaggedy bits poking out everywhere! Which means (a) it has some of the most dramatic national parks and beautiful coastlines in Europe. And (b) it doesn’t take long to get anywhere. Well connected by train, you can be hiking in the wilds of Scotland, surfing in South Wales, or visiting a different chocolate-box English village every weekend.
3
The cities
Urban life
Most countries are blessed with a couple of iconic cities. Not Britain. London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Belfast... UK cities are known throughout the world for their historic architecture, music heritage and creative counter-culture. Larger than many European capitals, the UK’s regional cities are also hotbeds for businesses and the arts – giving you a more cost-effective alternative to interning in London.
4
The history
Old timer
5,000-year-old neolithic stone circles, 1,500-year-old pubs, 900-year-old castles and palaces... you don’t need a history lesson to know that Britain is full of heritage and culture. There’s quite literally a museum or exhibition for everything. Or at the very least a statue of an old white dude on a horse missing a leg. And if museums aren’t your thing, just look up. That converted office block is probably older than your country’s constitution...
5
The weather
All seasons
Hear us out. Unlike many countries, Britain has proper seasons. Which means Sunday roast dinners in front of roaring fires in winter, blossoming parks in spring, hot days laid out in fields and beaches in summer, and crisp country walks in autumn. Plus, at all those points in the year, you get to moan about it being either too cold, not cold enough, too hot, or not hot enough. Because that’s just what being an honourary Brit is about!
Spotlight on
You can intern anywhere in the UK, but such is the draw of the UK’s capital – many interns head straight for the ‘Big Smoke’. A city where royal palaces sit alongside graffitied alleyways and Medieval cobbled streets, London has an energy all of its own. Yes, rent can be higher and you'll pay a few extra quid in a pub – but the pay-off to live in one of the most iconic cities in the world can be worth it. Plus, when it comes to internship opportunities, London is a powerhouse that attracts global talent from the worlds of finance to food.
Get hired or get the intel
Meet Camp Directors face-to-face, connect with others heading to camp, and (fingers crossed) get hired on the day. To register your interest, apply for Summer Camp USA over on our BUNAC camp page and let us know which city you'd like to attend. We can't wait to see your face, but don't worry if you can't make an in-person event - the quickest way to get hired is in our hiring pool.
Meet Camp Directors face-to-face, connect with others heading to camp, and (fingers crossed) get hired on the day. To register your interest, apply for Summer Camp USA over on our BUNAC camp page and let us know which city you'd like to attend. We can't wait to see your face, but don't worry if you can't make an in-person event - the quickest way to get hired is in our hiring pool.
View all events
What you say
I have accumulated valuable knowledge in my field that will definitely be beneficial for my future career.
Johanne, Digital Intern, London
The Intern UK experts
The JENZA Travel Group has been running student work programs to the UK since 1966!* So when it comes to everything UK – from who can apply, what placements you can do, and how to fill out that pesky visa form – we know our stuff. Our dedicated team are based in the UK and Ireland to help you every step of the way.
*Also the year England last won the World Cup, which you won't hear about AT ALL when you're interning in the UK...
How it works
What we do
One of the largest UK Government approved sponsors for this visa, our dedicated Intern UK team will guide you through the process at every stage. First, you need an internship offer. We'll let you know the exact internship requirements and advise on how to secure your placement. We’ll then check your internship meets the visa criteria, vet your host company and start the process of sponsoring you to work in the UK – with 1-on-1 support and regular check-ins from our UK based team.
When to apply
You're not limited to summer internships on this visa, so you can start your internship at any time of the year. Once you’ve found your internship, it can take 4-6 weeks to sort your paperwork. We’ll always work as quickly as we can on your application – with additional options for priority processing along the way. Each application is different and we are subject to government immigration processes and wait times – so please allow yourself as much time as possible to get through the process.
Your countdown to the UK
1
Apply + upload your supporting documents
Check your eligibility in the visa + cost section, hit Apply now and create your profile to start your application. You can then access your online account anytime from the top of this page. Once you’ve paid your deposit, head to the ‘Documents’ section in your account and start uploading your supporting documents - this will include your CV, passport copy, transcript, reference, proof of support funds and language certificate (if applicable).
1+ days
2
Application review
Once all your documents are uploaded, our intern team will review your submissions. They will approve these or provide feedback on any documents that may need to be amended and uploaded again.
2 days
3
Employer application
Follow the instructions in the ‘Employer Application’ section in your account to find your Employer Application & Agreement (EAA) form. This needs to be emailed with the instructions provided to your UK employer for them to fill out. This form is all about your internship, training plan and the company you are interning with.
1+ days
4
Employer review + CoS processing
Once the team receives your EAA form back from your employer, the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) processing time will begin. During this time, we will complete the employer screening process and once approved, start processing your CoS. Standard processing is 10 business days, but this can be reduced to 5 or 2 business days for an extra fee paid to JENZA. This is currently £165 for 5 business days, or £255 for 2 business days.
2-10 days
5
Receive CoS + apply for your visa
Use your CoS and instructions provided to apply for your Temporary Work Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa with UKVI online. Your passport nationality and whether you have a biometric chip will determine whether or not you need to attend a biometrics appointment in person or whether you can provide these online. As a general rule, EU/EEA passport holders can do this online; US and all other passport holders will need to do this at a visa application centre in your home country - we will provide you with the locations of these.
Once your biometrics are submitted, your Temporary Work Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa will be processed. Standard processing for visas is 15 business days, but this can be reduced to 5 or 2 business days for an extra fee paid to UKVI.
2-15 days
6
Book your flights + travel insurance
Once you have your visa, it’s safe to book your flights. Make sure to arrive in the UK on or after your visa start date. You cannot enter before this date. If you do, your visa will not be activated. When it comes to travel insurance, it is a visa and program requirement that your policy covers certain aspects of your stay in the UK. We work with Global Secutive to offer cover that meets UKVI and program requirements. Find out more in our FAQs.
1 day
7
Arrive in the UK
Once you have arrived in the UK, you must upload a copy of your travel details and copy of your visa to your account. You will also have a UK entry form to complete within three days of starting your internship.
Get it for free (ish)
Earn back your adventures
We know the most authentic voices come from our community. Whether you want to come on board as an ambassador, roadtester or as a one-off collaborator for blogs, vlogs or images – earn some extra $$ on the road with a content side hustle.
You shaped travel
“I wanted to do an internship in the UK compared to back home because it’s a good chance to learn about different cultures. You can travel, learn and gain experience at the same time.” Meet Samarth, our Intern UK roadtester, who left the US for a summer interning in London and travelling around Europe.
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All the inspo and intel
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Unlock 10% off Contiki when you book with JENZA
Looking for a little pre or post trip action? We've teamed up with Contiki to bring you the ultimate work and travel dream team. Check your online account to access your 10% off code.
Got questions?
Not found what you're looking for? Hit 'Ask a question' and one of our JENZA Support Squad will come back to you - pen pal style.
Let’s talk
Get on the dog and bone (phone) for all the intel and info on interning in the UK.
What is an internship?
An internship is a paid or voluntary (unpaid) position within a company where you are constantly learning and training under a mentor. Internship placements must not be made up of manual or administrative tasks, but should show clear progression – enhancing the skills you have, learning new skills, and getting exposure to different areas of the department or business. See the next FAQ for more.
Do I need to be a student?
Yes, you must be a full-time degree level student or you must have started your internship within 24 months of graduating. Other than UK passport holders, all nationalities can do Intern UK. Including overseas students currently studying at a UK university who either wish to intern over their summer holidays or after they graduate to put their academic achievements to work in a professional environment.
What industries can I intern in?
Other than healthcare and hospitality, you can intern in most industries. Your internship also doesn’t need to be connected to your degree subject, so you have the freedom to explore other career paths and routes. Speak to us about the sector you wish to intern in and we’ll let you know what is permitted on this visa.
What must my UK internship include?
When reaching out to UK employers, your internship offer must meet these requirements. This is to meet UK Government criteria for this visa, protect you as an intern, and ensure your experience is a valuable one:
Will my internship be paid or unpaid?
We can sponsor you to do either a paid or voluntary (unpaid) internship. See the 'What must my UK internship include' above.
If you do an unpaid internship, this will be a voluntary arrangement between you and your employer and your status would then be that of a 'volunteer'. However, being a volunteer does not simply mean that you are willing to work for no pay. Specifically, you and your employer must agree that you have no contract or formal arrangements and that you are under no obligation to perform any specific work or carry out instructions. You're able to come and go to work as you please and will have no expectation of, and will not receive, any payment or tangible benefit (including accommodation) for the work you do. JENZA will verify this with your employer before issuing the Certificate of Sponsorship.
JENZA will consider the training plan and contact the employer to discuss the nature of the internship. We will look for good rotation around various departments/areas of an organisation and strong objectives for each period. JENZA are happy to consider a training plan before you apply for Intern UK.
All internships over six months must be paid.
What is the UK minimum wage?
The National Minimum Wage legislation establishes the rules under which employees in the UK must be paid, and covers situations where unpaid employment is permitted. The current UK minimum wage depends on your age, find out more here. Your internship must be a supernumerary, career-enhancing and a limited duration opportunity. For paid internships, the level of remuneration will be agreed in advance between yourself and your employer.
Can I change my internship or do multiple internships?
Unfortunately not. Your visa and sponsorship are granted based on your application to complete a specific internship. If there is a problem at your internship, you should contact JENZA for assistance.
You cannot do multiple internships during your sponsorship. However, we can sponsor you to return to the UK to do a second internship providing it is with a different employer.
What is the UK Temporary Worker GAE visa?
Previously known as the Tier 5 visa, the Temporary Work GAE (Government Authorised Exchange) visa allows international students and graduates to come to the UK for a temporary period to do short-term work experience.
How long does this UK visa last?
We can sponsor internships for up to 12 months in duration. Your visa is only valid for the duration of your internship and you cannot extend it.
Do I need to be in a specific country when I apply for my visa?
You must apply for your visa from the country that matches the nationality of your passport. If you are looking to apply from a country that differs to your passport nationality, you must provide a valid visa proving your residential status in that country. If you are currently studying in the UK as an overseas student, you cannot apply from the UK unless you are switching your visa. See the next FAQ.
Can I switch to a Tier 4 student visa to a Temporary Worker GAE visa?
Yes, but you will need to meet the following criteria to switch your visa:
Or
You must apply for and have the Temporary Work GAE visa before your Tier 4 visa expires. We recommend applying a minimum of 12 weeks before the expiry of the Tier 4 visa. If applying to switch in the UK, there is a biometrics fee payable. You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), even if you have already paid this for your Tier 4 visa. JENZA must be satisfied that any student switching from a Tier 4 to a Temporary Work GAE visa does not intend to remain in the UK beyond the end of their internship.
When will a pre-site visit be required?
We will need to conduct a site visit prior to approving your internship for any company if any of the below statements apply:
Can I work alongside my internship?
You are not permitted on this UK visa to get a casual, evening or weekend job alongside your internship.
Does JENZA find me a UK internship?
You are responsible for finding your own internship placement. Many students find placements through their university careers office, study abroad departments or family contacts etc. If you don't have an internship lined up, we can recommend placement partners who will help you to secure an internship in the UK. You’ll also find free resources on our Intern Hub to help with your search - including a step-by-step guide to finding an internship, downloadable templates for resumes and cover letters, and a database of UK employers where past interns have worked.
Is travel insurance an Intern UK requirement?
Yes, it’s a visa and program requirement to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers for medical expenses and repatriation of at least USD $100,000. We work with Global Secutive to offer a policy that meets both the program and visa requirements. You can get a quote here
What is the difference between BUNAC Intern in Britain and JENZA Intern UK?
Nothing! We’ve always been the same team running identical UK internship programs, just with different brand names for different countries. As you can imagine, this got crazy confusing. So in 2024, JENZA became the new name for all our working holiday and intern programs, and BUNAC went back to its 1972 Americana roots, and became our summer camp brand.
Due to its long-standing relationship with UKVI - UK Visas and Immigration BUNAC is still the sponsor name for Intern UK – so you can expect to see both the BUNAC and JENZA name on your paperwork and in your online account.
Ask a Question
Didn't see your question? Ask our team here.
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JENZA Travel International Ltd, trading as JENZA, is a company registered in Dublin, Ireland with Registered Company No. 707281 and registered address at 29-31 South William St, Dublin, Ireland, D02 EY96.
