Erasmus Internships in 2025: Top 5 Reasons Why Students Struggle (and What to Do)
- giuliapedrinivisio
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Author: Melike Karaboz
Have you sent emails to dozens of places to do an internship abroad, written separate motivation letters for each company, but still haven't received a clear answer? Don't worry, you're not alone!
As of 2025, finding an internship abroad as an Erasmus student has become much more difficult. Increased competition, strict visa policies, and technical skill expectations have made the process of finding an internship overseas quite complicated for students.
In this article, we’ll explore the 5 obstacles students face while applying for abroad work programs. We’ll also offer practical tips to overcome them.
1. Global Competition in Remote Erasmus Internships
After the pandemic, many companies switched to remote internships. At first, this looked like a great opportunity. However, it created a new level of global competition. Now, Erasmus students are not only competing with European students. They are also facing applicants from Asia, America, and beyond. This makes internship abroad programs more challenging. Many companies now look beyond grades. They also want online skills, digital portfolios, and original applications.
So, what can you do?
Create content that shows your strengths and creativity.
Be active on LinkedIn and other professional platforms.
Apply to less popular internship abroad offers in your field.
2. Tougher Visa and Relocation Rules
In the post-pandemic period, many countries have introduced stricter rules regarding visas and residence permits. Whereas students used to be able to travel more easily, the process has now become more complicated. Some countries do not even issue internship visas. Others only accept applications from certain universities.
In addition to visas, the relocation process is also not easy. Finding accommodation, arranging insurance, and gathering legal documents takes a lot of time.
For this reason, many people prefer to do their internship abroad remotely. However, this also leads to the loss of part of the cultural experience.
How can this issue be addressed?
Research the visa and immigration requirements of the country you plan to visit in advance.
Seek support from your university or the Erasmus network team.
If necessary, target countries that simplify the process.
3. Rising Demand for AI and Tech Skills
Nowadays, a good GPA is not enough. Companies expect more. Knowing AI tools is a big advantage, especially for technical positions. Some job postings even explicitly state “interns who know artificial intelligence.”
This can be challenging for students outside the technical field. But it is possible to close this gap with small steps.
What can you do?
Gain basic knowledge about AI tools.
Develop your technical skills with free courses.
Demonstrate what you’ve learned with examples in your applications.
4. Language and Culture Challenges
Internships abroad are not just about technical knowledge. Language skills are also very important. Some students may have difficulty speaking or writing in English. In addition, every country has a different work culture. Issues such as the level of formality, time management, and communication style may vary. This can make it difficult for interns to adapt to their new environment.
How to cope?
Practice daily conversation.
You can try interview simulations on online platforms.
Conduct brief research on the work culture of the country you are going to.
Learning about cultural differences makes the process easier.
5. Lack of Personalized Guidance
Many students feel alone during the internship process. Universities generally provide general information but cannot offer personalized guidance. Erasmus networks can also sometimes be too crowded and inadequate.
Students applying for an internship abroad for the first time in particular do not know what to do. This can lead to a loss of motivation and incorrect applications.
What can be done?
Connect with people who have previously completed internships abroad.
Follow Erasmus internship profiles on LinkedIn and forums that share their experiences.
Request one-on-one assistance from advisors at your university.
Consider seeking external mentoring if necessary.
Conclusion
The year 2025 presents a more digital and challenging period in terms of internship abroad opportunities. AI skills, remote work adaptability, cultural flexibility, and unique application skills are now among the areas that every Erasmus student needs to develop. However, these challenges don't have to stop you. With the right strategy, by developing yourself, and by seeking the right support, you can successfully navigate this process. Remember: You are no longer just an Erasmus student, but also a professional candidate stepping into the global business world. And by reading this article, you've already taken an important step in that direction!
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