Title:
Get to Know Internships (Praktikum) in Germany
Introduction
A Praktikum (internship) in Germany is an excellent opportunity to try out a profession before committing to it permanently. It allows students, trainees and career changers to gain practical experience in a specific field and to assess whether this path suits them in the long term. In this article, we explain what a Praktikum is, its benefits, types, duration and what can come after it.
A Praktikum is a short-term practical training period in a company. It is designed to introduce people to different professions – whether they are students, graduates, or individuals looking to change their career path. The main goal is to help people gain hands-on experience, get to know the real working environment and evaluate whether their chosen career field is right for them.
A Praktikum offers many advantages – both for participants and for employers:
Exploring a profession:
An internship helps you understand the details of the profession you have chosen and decide whether it really suits you before you commit fully.
Gaining practical experience:
You get to experience the workplace, interact with colleagues and take part in real tasks and projects.
Improving employment prospects:
If you perform well during the internship, the employer may offer you a long-term opportunity – such as a vocational training position (Ausbildung) or a permanent job.
Building a professional network:
Through daily contact with colleagues and supervisors, you can build valuable connections that may open doors to future opportunities.
The length of a Praktikum can vary and is usually divided into two main categories:
Short-term internships:
Typically last from one week up to around four weeks.
Suitable for people who simply want a quick initial insight into a field.
Long-term internships:
May last two to four months, providing a deeper and more detailed experience of the job.
In some cases, an internship can even last up to one full year.
Yes, in some cases a Praktikum can be paid, especially when it lasts longer than three months. In such situations, the intern and the employer agree on a salary or allowance. This type of internship is ideal if you want to combine gaining experience with earning some income.
Note:
Short-term internships (less than three months) are often unpaid, due to their temporary and exploratory nature.
If your Praktikum is a positive experience and you manage to prove your skills, you may receive further opportunities in the same company. For example:
Ausbildung (vocational training):
The internship can be the first step toward a formal vocational training programme (Ausbildung), where you become an apprentice in the company.
Permanent job:
If you perform particularly well, the employer may offer you a permanent position.
Show commitment:
Treat the internship as a real career opportunity. Be punctual, reliable and proactive in all tasks.
Ask for help:
Do not hesitate to ask questions or request guidance from colleagues or supervisors. The purpose of a Praktikum is to learn and gain experience.
Build your network:
Connect with colleagues and managers. These contacts can be very helpful when you later apply for jobs or look for references.
Learn as much as possible:
Use the opportunity to develop both technical and soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving and time management.
A Praktikum in Germany is an important step toward building your future career. Whether you want to explore a new field or strengthen your chances on the job market, an internship gives you the opportunity to develop your skills and gain real work experience. By understanding what a Praktikum involves – its benefits, duration and possible outcomes – you can make the most of this opportunity and move confidently toward your professional goals.
The editorial team of our website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and consultation of multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors may occur or some information may be incomplete. Please consider the information in this article as an initial reference only and always contact the relevant authorities or qualified experts to obtain confirmed and up-to-date information.
