How to find an internship in France as an international student who doesn’t speak French
Securing that first internship in a foreign country can be daunting at the best of times, so if a limited grasp of the native language provides an extra challenge, it is important to adapt your search strategy whilst working on your language skills. But do not fear – a wide range of platforms, services and techniques are out there to boost your chances of landing that first opportunity thanks to the skills you possess, not despite those that you are working on improving.
Understand the challenge by adapting your search
Embarking on the journey to secure an internship in France without fluency in the native language may seem to add an extra level of pressure. Not speaking the local language is a hurdle but not an insurmountable barrier, and your search is far from impossible. Many international students and professionals have navigated this very path and found fulfilling opportunities.
While language might limit your options, France is home to a number of companies and organizations where English is the main working language, plus do not forget that those of an international nature serving a global clientele will often be actively seeking “non-natives” for particular positions. Certain sectors in France are particularly welcoming to English speakers, namely IT, tech startups, multinational companies, tourism, and international organizations. If you’re not fluent in French, consider directing your search towards industries and companies that have an international focus or serve global clientele.
To support your search for such opportunities, use company websites and job platforms to carefully review language requirements. Look for phrases like “business-level English required,” “international environment,” or “English as a working language.” This will help you filter out roles where fluency in French is mandatory.
Identify specialized services that meet your needs
Job search platforms can be your gateway to a wide range of opportunities. To improve your chances further, make use of tools that allow you to filter for English-speaking internships on sites such as LinkedIn, Welcome to the Jungle, Indeed, and Glassdoor. All these sites contain robust filtering options and detailed company profiles that should help you identify recruiters looking for your kind of profile, meaning the lack of French proficiency will not be a barrier to a potential hire.
In addition to the riches that can be found online, don’t forget emlyon’s Career Center, which often lists opportunities tailored for international students. The Careers Forum and the International Forum are events organized by the school where international students can find job offers, as well as other recruitment events. The alumni network and specialized job boards may also have specific opportunities. It’s not because you are an international student that they will not have openings geared towards profiles such as your own. To keep abreast of all the above, make sure you sign up for email alerts or newsletters from these platforms to stay updated on the latest postings.
Leverage your network
Networking is a powerful tool in any internship search and even more so when facing language barriers. Start by reaching out to professors, alumni, and classmates. They can provide recommendations, references, or a heads-up on English-speaking opportunities. The Career Support teams at emlyon business school are dedicated to helping students preparing their professional integration after graduation.
On the other hand, joining Facebook groups or LinkedIn groups focused on internships or jobs in France can also help. In these communities, both students and employers share postings, advice, and firsthand experiences. Some groups cater specifically to international students and English speakers looking for work in France.
Try attending networking events, career fairs, or online webinars hosted by your university, professional associations, or expat organizations. These events facilitate connections with recruiters and professionals who understand the challenges international job-seekers face.
Tailor your applications
When applying for internships, your CV and cover letter are your first opportunity to stand out from the crowd. Write your documents in clear, simple English. If possible (especially if the job posting is in French) consider providing French versions as well. Even a basic translation demonstrates your willingness to adapt and your respect for the company’s culture.
In your application, highlight your skills, international background, and adaptability. Highlight qualities like problem-solving, teamwork, and a willingness to learn French. If you have experience in multicultural environments or have previously worked in English-speaking teams, make sure these experiences are foregrounded.
Prep in English and consider all options
Securing an interview is a major step, and one you have to prep for as thoroughly as possible. For roles where English is the main language, interviews will often be conducted in English or in a mix of English and basic French. It’s well worth practicing common interview questions, display your motivation to improve in French regardless of your current level of proficiency, and do your homework on the company that will be interviewing you. Practicing with someone who has experience with interviews in France can also boost your confidence.
Another option would be to apply for remote internships with international companies, bypassing the language issue altogether. Alternatively, look for international companies with branches or headquarters in France. These companies often have bilingual or English-speaking teams and may be more flexible regarding language requirements.
Keep working on your French
While it’s possible to find an internship in France as an English speaker, improving your French will significantly boost your options.
“The company I’m working for now is a French company, and I’m actually their first hire who doesn’t speak French fluently. All of my interviews were conducted in English, which shows it’s definitely possible to land an internship or even a job in France without speaking the language. That said, I’d strongly recommend learning French because it makes the process so much easier.” relates an international student from a Master of Science at emlyon business school.
A plethora of tools are out there to assist you, from free language apps and online courses to language exchange meetups and the tried-and-tested formula of daily practice. Reading books and watching shows in French can help you improve your level. Taking small steps towards learning French not only demonstrates adaptability and cultural interest but also increases your chances of being hired—and thriving—in a French work environment.
By embracing the process, utilizing and growing your network, identifying the most appropriate platforms to assist you and gradually improving your level in French, your chances of being recruited can only multiply.
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