Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible?

First-years, Sophomores, and Juniors currently enrolled at Princeton University. If you are taking a gap year, please contact your Dean to to inquire about your eligibility for summer programs. If you are interested in the Ruhr Fellowship or TUM PREP, please consult individual program websites for additional requirements and/or restrictions.

Can I participate in the German Department’s summer programs in Berlin, Leipzig, or Vienna? 

Yes, you can participate in both SWP and other summer programs. 

How long are the internships?

Typically 4-10 weeks.

Are there in-person internships, and can I go to Germany this summer?

We expect all internships to be conducted in-person in 2025. Please consult the University’s Travel Policy for the most up-to-date information regarding permissible travel.

Are there remote internships?

You may have the option to conduct either your entire internship or a portion of it remotely. Factors such as international travel policies, planning at the respective host organizations, and visa requirements play a role in determining whether internships are conducted remotely or in-person. 

Do I have to learn German?

Language proficiency requirements vary. Most STEM internships are conducted in English. Internships in cultural fields require at least intermediate-level German proficiency. Native or near-native fluency may be required for internships in media and journalism. We will find the best fit for you.

Are there deadlines?

Deadlines vary.

Deadlines for STEM programs such as TUM PREP, the Ruhr Fellowship, and HIDA can be found under STEM internships in the SWP Shared Resources folder.

Internships relating to fields such as service and social impact, the humanities, arts, law, and government have flexible deadlines, but we strongly recommend that you apply by December 1st. 

We receive recruitment requests throughout the year, so we often accept applications during the spring semester. 

Keep in mind that the sooner you apply, the better your chances are of getting your top choice. 

How do I submit my cover letter, CV and other materials?

You can upload your resume on the Application Form.  After you apply, you will receive an invitation to a shared Google Folder for your other application materials. Only you and the Summer Work Program staff will have access to this shared folder. Resumes and cover letters should be submitted as Microsoft Word or Google Docs.

What do I include in my cover letter?

Tell us about what excites you!  You should also describe your professional and academic interests, career goals, and the types of internships you are interested in.  You can find tips and guidelines for cover letters under “Resume and Cover Letter Resources” in the Summer Work Program Resources folder.

I’m applying for a STEM internship. Do I need a German resume?

No, but you should take a look at the “Adapt your English CV - Quick Guide” in the Summer Work Program Resources folder.  You need to adapt your English-language resume so that it conforms to German conventions.  If you don’t have a resume, consult the Center for Career Development’s resume guides.

How do I write a German CV?

Start with a great English CV by visiting the Center for Career Development. Then, take a look at “How to write a German CV“ in the Summer Work Program Resources folder.

Do I need a Language Evaluation?

A Language Evaluation is not required for native speakers, German majors, and students enrolled in German 107 or any higher-level course conducted in German. Most STEM internships do not require a language evaluation.

Where do I get a Language Evaluation?

You should ask your current or most recent German instructor at Princeton University to send an email to the SWP Internship Program Coordinator. If you did not take German at Princeton, contact the SWP Internship Program Coordinator.

Who should I ask for a recommendation letter?

You can ask any instructor at Princeton University. This can be the same person who completes the language evaluation. Not all internships require recommendation letters and deadlines vary. 

Do I get funding?

Yes. We provide funding for living and travel expenses, and some internships are paid by host companies.

Can I apply to specific companies?

You can apply for some positions by specifying your preferences on the Summer Work Program Internship Application Form, but most of our internships are not listed on the form. 

Application instructions for specific STEM internships can be found in the SWP Shared Resources folder.

Most students apply for specific internships by discussing their preferences and options with the Internship Program Coordinator after submitting the application form.  We work with you closely to find the best fit based on your skills and goals.  There are new opportunities every year.

Do I need a work permit?

If you are not an EU Citizen, you may require a work authorization – even if your internship is conducted remotely. We will help you through the process.

Do I need a visa?

If you are not an EU or U.S. citizen, visit the German Federal Foreign Office website to find out if you need a visa.

How do I learn more?

Just ask! Contact the Internship Program Coordinator via email.