2026 SWE InternshipsUK

Most companies start accepting applications between July and September 2025, with some opening as early as June. Apply as soon as applications open - many companies use rolling admissions and fill positions on a first-come, first-served basis. Don't wait until the last minute!

No! Many internships are designed for students with no prior professional experience. Focus on:

• Personal projects that demonstrate your coding skills
• Coursework and academic projects
• Open source contributions
• Hackathon participation
• Any coding bootcamps or online courses you've completed

The most commonly requested languages are:

• Python - Great for beginners, widely used in tech
• Java - Popular at large tech companies
• JavaScript - Essential for web development roles
• C++ - Important for systems programming and some FAANG companies
• SQL - Critical for data-related roles

Focus on mastering one or two languages well rather than knowing many superficially.

1. Practice coding problems on LeetCode, HackerRank, or CodeSignal
2. Master data structures and algorithms - arrays, linked lists, trees, graphs, sorting, searching
3. Review system design basics for senior internships
4. Practice explaining your thought process out loud
5. Prepare behavioral questions using the STAR method
6. Review your resume projects in detail

Check out our LeetCode Patterns and Interview Resources for detailed guidance.

Essential sections:

• Contact information and LinkedIn/GitHub profiles
• Education with relevant coursework and GPA (if 3.5+)
• Technical skills grouped by category (languages, frameworks, tools)
• Projects with brief descriptions, technologies used, and GitHub links
• Experience (any work experience, even non-tech)
• Activities like hackathons, clubs, or volunteer work

Tips:

• Keep it to 1 page
• Use action verbs and quantify achievements
• Tailor it for each application
• Get it reviewed by career services or experienced developers

Yes! Most software engineering internships in the UK are paid, especially at tech companies and financial firms. Typical ranges:

• FAANG companies: £4,000-£8,000+ per month
• Financial services: £3,500-£7,000+ per month
• Tech startups: £2,500-£4,500 per month
• Traditional companies: £2,000-£4,000 per month

Some also provide additional benefits like housing allowances, transport, or meal vouchers.

Yes, but visa requirements vary:

• UK/EU students: Can work freely
• International students on student visas: Can typically work during summer breaks, but check your visa conditions
• Other international students: May need visa sponsorship

Many large companies sponsor visas for exceptional candidates. Always check the job posting for visa requirements and reach out to recruiters if unsure.

• Summer internships (June-September): Most common, typically 10-12 weeks, highest number of positions available
• Spring internships (March-May): Less common, good for students with different academic calendars
• Autumn internships (September-November): Rare but available at some companies
• Year-long placements: Some companies offer 12-month industrial placements

Summer internships offer the most opportunities and networking potential.

Very competitive, but not impossible:

• FAANG companies: Accept 1-5% of applicants
• Top financial firms: Accept 2-8% of applicants
• Unicorn startups: Accept 5-15% of applicants
• Other tech companies: Accept 10-30% of applicants

Improve your odds by:

• Applying early when applications open
• Having strong projects and technical skills
• Getting referrals from employees
• Applying to a mix of company sizes and types
• Preparing thoroughly for interviews

Don't panic! Here are alternatives:

• Keep applying - some companies have later deadlines or reopen applications
• Consider smaller companies that may still be hiring
• Look for research opportunities with university professors
• Build personal projects to strengthen your resume for next year
• Contribute to open source projects
• Attend hackathons and networking events
• Consider part-time roles during the academic year
• Apply for spring 2027 internships early

Use the summer to build skills and experience that will make you a stronger candidate next time.