An internship is a short period of work, but it still deserves a clear agreement. Ask these questions before you accept, especially if the listing is missing a detail.
About the work
- What will I be responsible for in a normal week?
- Who will I report to, and who will review my work?
- What should I have completed by the end of the internship?
- Will I work on a real project or on practice tasks?
- Is there a chance of conversion to a full-time role, and what would that depend on?
About money and time
- Is the internship paid? What is the stipend, and when is it paid?
- How many hours a week are expected, and is overtime paid or adjusted?
- Are there any costs for equipment, software, training or travel? A legitimate employer should not ask you to pay a deposit to start.
- How many days of leave are available, if any?
- What is the exact start and end date?
About the paperwork
- Will I receive an offer letter or internship agreement before I start?
- Does it state the role, dates, stipend, hours and notice period?
- Is a certificate or academic credit offered? Get that in writing if it matters to you.
- Who owns the work I produce during the internship?
Red flags
- Any request for a registration fee, deposit, training fee or kit charge.
- A verbal offer with no written terms.
- Pressure to start immediately without explaining the role.
- A personal email address and no way to verify the company.
- Refusal to put the stipend or hours in writing.
If something feels wrong, pause and ask. A good employer will not punish you for wanting clear terms.