Applications open now!
Do you want to do an international internship?
What is STEP?
What’s the procedure?
How can I apply?
Collect international experience
ELSA offers you the unique opportunity
Hong Kong, New York, Sydney – we offer internships all over the world.
Improve your language skills
Directly in the respective country
Improve your language skills on site – English, Spanish, Chinese, there’s something for everyone.
Collect work experience
Expand your work experience
There is something for everyone at STEP – from Freshers to graduate students, the right international internship is definitely there for you.
Get to know new cultures and friends
Broaden your horizon
STEP internships allow you to get to know new friends and cultures. On site you will be supported by the ELSA board and a network of ELSA members and interns awaits you.
STEP FAQ
Who can complete a STEP internship abroad?
Students of law, graduates and young lawyers who are ELSA members. The ELSA membership is free of charge and without any obligations – get more information from the ELSA Group at your university!
Where do the internships take place?
You can only apply for internship positions abroad – an application for an Austrian internship is not possible! Twice a year, numerous internships are advertised, which take place in various cities in Europe and also on other continents.
What tasks can I expect during a STEP internship?
Tasks vary depending on which employer you work for. These can be law firms, companies, universities or even public authorities and institutions. The exact description of the activity can be found in the respective call for tenders.
When do the internships take place?
Every internship abroad is advertised according to the requirements of the employer – the period and duration of the internship can be found in the respective advertisement. This must be a minimum of 2 weeks and a maximum of 2 years. The internships can generally take place throughout the year and are not limited to the summer months.
Are the internships paid?
Most traineeships are remunerated either by providing a salary or by providing in-kind services such as accommodation or meals. However, some traineeships are unpaid because they are non-profit organisations.
Are there any costs associated with the application for the internship abroad?
No, there are no costs for the applicants! The application is completely free of charge and the support provided by the ELSA Group is also free of charge.
What requirements do I have to meet?
For each internship there are specific requirements relating to legal knowledge, language and academic progress. These requirements must be met in full in order for the application to be forwarded. It is not necessary to prove grades, as it is only necessary to pass the exam!
The requirements are different for each position, so that there is a suitable internship for everyone, even if you are still at the beginning of your studies!
Can I apply for England, for example, even though I do not know English law?
Yes, because it is not necessary to know the legal system of the country where you are doing the internship! Employers advertise the internship knowing that only foreign students can apply and that they therefore only know their national law.
What are the advantages of the STEP Internship Program?
You will be coached from the moment you apply so that you have the best chance of getting an internship. As an intern, the ELSA group of the internship location will be at your side and will support you in finding accommodation, on your first day at work and will look after you throughout your stay!
The internships are mostly paid and only take place in legal fields, which allows you to broaden your expertise. In addition, STEP allows you to get to know a new culture, improve your language skills and make many new contacts.
How can I apply?
The application is made on the international STEP homepage https://step.elsa.org
You can apply for up to three internships by filling out the online form in English. Unfortunately, this cannot be cached, so prepare your CV and motivation letter already so that you only have to insert everything then.
It is best to contact your ELSA group beforehand so that they can help you with your application.
Do I have to attach certificates or other documents?
In principle, this is not necessary! No grades are required and no language certificates are required; the information provided in the online application form is sufficient! However, for some internships, special documents such as an extract from the criminal record may be required.
Can I withdraw my application?
During the application and selection process, you can withdraw your application by simply contacting ELSA. If you have been selected for the internship, you may cancel your participation by stating just reasons. Further information can be found in the general conditions at the end of the application form.
Basically it is recommended to apply only if participation in the internship is possible!
Is there an interview?
Basically this is not fixed because most employers decide based on the written online application. However some internships may require a Skype interview – you will be informed about this by the employer.
Who selects the interns?
Employers choose who will complete the internship. ELSA is not involved in this process, but simply passes on the applications.
How do I know if I’ve been taken?
Is there an interview?
Basically this is not fixed because most employers decide based on the written online application. However some internships may require a Skype interview – you will be informed about this by the employer.