Finding an internship in Switzerland: a complete guide for students

Introduction

Switzerland offers excellent internship opportunities. Here is how to maximize your chances.

Why an internship in Switzerland?

Advantages

• Attractive compensation (1,500-3,000 CHF/month)
• World-renowned companies
• International experience
• Valuable network
• Stepping stone to employment

Sectors that are hiring

• Finance and banking
• Pharma and biotech
• Watchmaking and luxury
• International organizations
• Tech and startups

Types of internships

Mandatory internship (as part of studies)

• Integrated into the academic curriculum
• Typically 3-6 months
• Tripartite agreement

Voluntary internship

• During holidays
• More flexibility
• Same rights

End-of-studies internship

• Typically 6 months
• Often leads to a job offer

Where to look?

Specialized websites

• students.ch
• jobscout24.ch
• indeed.ch/internships
• graduateland.com

Company websites

• Career pages of large companies
• "Internship" or "Stage" + company name

Unsolicited applications

• Very effective in Switzerland
• Target SMEs

Networking

• Professors and alumni
• LinkedIn
• Career fairs

Effective applications

CV for an internship

• 1 page maximum
• Highlight:
• Current education
• Academic projects
• Student jobs
• Associations/Extracurriculars
• Clear internship objective

Cover letter

• Why this company?
• Why this sector?
• What you will bring
• Availability dates

Interview

• Prepare questions about the assignments
• Show your motivation
• Be punctual and professional

Compensation

Average salaries

Note: Some internships are unpaid (rare and debatable).

Practical aspects

Work permit

• EU/EFTA: No issue
• Others: L Permit for interns required

Housing

• Student residences
• Shared apartments
• Budget: 600-1,200 CHF/month

Health insurance

• Mandatory
• Possible exemption if covered elsewhere (short stay)

Turning your internship into a job

1. Be proactive and propose improvements
2. Expand your network within the company
3. Ask for feedback regularly
4. Express your interest in staying
5. Stay in touch after the internship

Conclusion

An internship in Switzerland can launch your career. Prepare well and seize this opportunity!