SME and White City Internships

How to find internship opportunities

• All SME and White City Internship opportunities are advertised via the ‘Exclusive Opportunities’ section of your JobsLive profile. 
• Roles are typically posted on a rolling basis during Spring and early Summer.
• To receive notifications of new postings, please complete our online Expression of Interest Form for 2026. 
• If you are unsure about your eligibility or scheme timelines, please contact the Placement and Internship Unit at internship.unit@imperial.ac.uk.
  

Step one: Application

• Apply via JobsLive using the online SME & White City Application Form (this will be attached to the job advert), as well as a tailored copy of your CV. 

Step two: Eligibility and Work Authorisation 

• You must have the right to work in the UK for the full duration of the internship.

• For queries regarding work eligibility and visas, please contact the International Student Support Team.

Step three: Shortlisting

• Applications are reviewed by the Careers Service and/or the employer.
• Shortlisted candidates are then passed to the organisation for consideration.

Step four: Interviews

• If you are successfully progressed from shortlist to interview, the recruiting organisation will contact you directly to arrange a suitable date and time.
• Interviews may be in-person or online. We would recommend reviewing the information on our  Applications and interviews webpages when preparing for this stage.

Step five: Offer and Onboarding

• Offers are made directly by the employer.
• You’ll agree start dates, hours, responsibilities, and contract terms with them.
• Employers are also expected to provide a induction, supervision, and health and safety information.

Step six: Reflection

• If you successfully secure an internship position, you will be required to complete a short reflective learning journal to help you learn from your experiences. 

To give yourself the best chance of success, make sure your application is targeted and well-prepared.

1. Tailor your CV

• Highlight skills and experience that match the internship description.
• Keep it clear, concise, and professional - usually no more than two pages.
• Use action verbs (e.g. developed, managed, designed) to demonstrate impact.

2. Complete the application form carefully

• Motivation: Explain why you want the role and what interests you about the company/organisation. Show that you have done your own research and highlight 
• Fit for the role: Show how your skills, knowledge and experience meet the essential and required requirements listed in the advert. Use examples (academic, extracurricular, work experience) to evidence your points. 

3. Be specific

• Avoid generic statements like “I am a good team player.” Instead, give short, concrete examples (e.g. “I worked as part of a three-person group to deliver X project on time”).

4. Check your documents

• Proofread your CV and application form carefully before submission. Errors can make a negative impression.
• Ensure file names are professional (e.g. FirstnameLastname_CV.pdf).

5. Use support available

• Book an appointment with the Careers Service for feedback on your CV and application or explore the full range of Careers Service resources.

What is an SME?

An SME (small or medium-sized enterprise) is a registered company with fewer than 250 employees and a turnover of less than €50 million. SMEs make up around 99 per cent of all the businesses operating in the UK.

Are the internships paid?

Yes. All internships advertised through the schemes are paid at the Real London Living Wage or above.

What kinds of projects are offered?

Projects vary year to year but tend to be heavily STEM and Business focused. Typical roles might include:

• Research and Development: laboratory work, product testing, sustainable materials, and biotechnology.

• Engineering and Technology: product design, materials and civil engineering, robotics, electrochemical systems, and AI/machine learning applications.

• Data and Digital: bioinformatics, software development, environmental data validation, and web app design.

• Business, Communications and Strategy: commercial analysis, business development, product marketing, client engagement. 

These projects often take place in small, fast-growing companies or research-driven start-ups, where you’ll have the chance to take on meaningful responsibility and make a visible impact.

Can internships be part-time or remote?

Most roles are full-time and delivered over the summer, but some employers may offer part-time hours or hybrid/remote options. Always ensure to check the job advert for full details.

Can my organisation apply for the scheme if I have found my own internship?

Yes. If you have already secured an internship with an organisation that you think would be eligible for one of the funding offers, please direct them to either the SME Internship Fund webpage or the White City Internship Fund webpage where they can find further information on eligibility and submission deadlines.

If you have any other queries please email the Placement and Internship Unit at internship.unit@imperial.ac.uk.