How to find an internship in Luxembourg

Internships during studies in the Grand Duchy

If you are a university student, an internship is often an integral part of your studies. Many students have to choose a company to complete their internship, and it's very likely that you will too.

But before we get into where and how to find them, there are a few things you need to know, such as the different types of internships and the regulations that govern them.

Aside from internships, you can also get a student job during your free time or vacation. If this sounds like something you might be interested in, we recommend you check out our dedicated page.

Why is an internship important?

What is the difference between an internship and student work?

What types of internship are available?

When is the best time to do an internship?

Regulations applicable to internships by law

In Luxembourg, work placements are governed by the common Labour Code mostly in articles L. 152-1 à L. 152-17. Here are some of the important points to consider in the context of the regulations.

Compensation

There are minimum amounts that must be paid to students on internships in Luxembourg. Traineeships that last 4 weeks or more have to pay at least 30% of the minimum wage for unskilled workers. Of course, employers can pay more than the legal minimum if they want to. But if the educational work placement is less than four weeks long, the company doesn't have to offer pay.

Monitoring

Each trainee gets a tutor who's there to help them settle in, keep in touch, answer questions and give advice. If the placement is four weeks or more, the tutor must also give a critical and detailed assessment at the end.

Type of internship

The traineeship must provide information, guidance and vocational training. Trainees may not be assigned to tasks requiring performance comparable to that of an employee. They may not replace a permanent job or a temporarily absent employee, nor may they be used to cope with work surpluses.

Where to find an internship in Luxembourg

Now that we've gone over why internships are important, the different types of internships and other key info, let's move on to something you've been asking about.

Here are a few ideas, links and tips for looking for internships in the Grand Duchy.

University career offices

Online job search portals

Job and career fairs

Companies

Government internship programmes

Professional and social networks

How to apply for an internship?

Knowing where to look for an internship is key, but it's only part of the process. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to help you apply effectively and find a great internship in Luxembourg.

1. Plan your search for internships

   As soon as you know when you'll have to do your work placements, get started on your search. It's usually a good idea to start looking for placements about three or four months before you need to start them.

2. Define your goals and preferences

   Before you start your search, make sure you know what you're looking for and what you like. figure out what areas or industries you're interested in, as well as the type of experience you'd like to gain. Decide how long you want to do the placement and whether it fits in with your other commitments, like your studies or other personal responsibilities.

   If the placement is part of your course, it might have a set length and you'll have to finish it at a certain point. On the other hand, if you choose to do a placement at the end of your studies, you may be able to choose how long you do it for. It's also a good idea to think about where in Luxembourg you'd like to be based.

3. Prepare your papers in advance

   This includes a well-structured, professional CV that highlights your skills, experience and academic achievements. Don't limit yourself to including only your studies. Voluntary activities can be useful if they are linked to your career path.

   Write a cover letter for each application that shows why you're interested in the company and how you can contribute. Get letters of recommendation from professors or former employers, as well as any relevant certificates to support your application. Also, make use of the resources your university offers, such as CV reviews and personal advice.

4. Search and spot opportunities

   To get started, take a look at some of the different places you can find opportunities. Your university's careers and employment offices are a great place to start. They can give you the lowdown on available placements and offer advice. Many universities have partnerships with companies, so they can offer you exclusive opportunities. And don't forget to check out the methods from the last section too, to give yourself the best chance.

5. Apply to several places

   Once you've found some internship opportunities, make your CV and cover letter for each one, highlighting the skills and experience you have that are relevant to the position. Make sure you meet the application deadlines and send your applications well in advance.

6. Send out unsolicited applications

   Even if a company hasn't posted any internship openings, they might still be interested in your application. Send your CV and a well-written cover letter to the head of recruitment or human resources at the company you're interested in. Be sure to show your genuine interest in the company and explain how you could contribute to its success.

7. Keep track of your applications

   If you've sent in your application for a work placement or an unsolicited application and haven't heard back, feel free to drop them a quick line to make sure they got it. It's not uncommon for employers to get a lot of applications, so yours might get lost in the shuffle. This will show the company you're still interested and motivated. Be polite, but don't be afraid to follow up.

8. Prepare for interviews

   If you are selected for an interview, prepare yourself by researching information about the company and the specific job. Familiarise yourself with common interview questions and think of concrete examples to illustrate your skills and experience. If possible, do mock interviews with friends, family or career advisers to improve your confidence and performance.

   💡 During the interview, adopt a positive and professional attitude. Listen carefully to the questions, answer clearly and concisely, and show your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Use concrete examples to support your answers and relate your skills and experience to the position.

9. Follow up and reflect after interviews

   After the interview, send a thank you email to the interviewer. Thank them for the opportunity, reiterate your interest in the job and mention a specific aspect of the interview or the company that you particularly appreciated. This gesture demonstrates your professionalism and can help you stand out from other candidates.

   Think about what you did well and what you could do better. This self-assessment will help you improve for future interviews. If you receive feedback from the interviewer, use it constructively to develop yourself further.

10. Wait for a reply and continue to apply

    While you're waiting to hear back after the interview, keep an eye out for other internship opportunities. Be proactive and don't put all your eggs in one basket. This'll up your chances and help you stay calm while you're waiting to hear back.

It might seem tricky to find an internship in Luxembourg, but with a bit of planning and a proactive approach, it can be a great opportunity. By following the advice and steps we've laid out, you'll be all set to find an internship that's a good fit for your goals and career path.

If you invest fully in your internship search and choose wisely, you can make the most of this experience and potentially set yourself up for some great career opportunities down the road. And don't forget that an apprenticeship in Luxembourg is not just about getting a degree. It's also a great way to set yourself up for success in your future career.