IP Student Handbook 2025/26

The internship team works closely with employers to share opportunities and support students in gaining legal experience. While not a formal placement service, the support includes:

• Circulating employer-submitted internships
• Hosting internship preparation workshops
• Providing administrative guidance, including the Convention de Stage for international placements

1. Where can I access legal career guidance?

• You can find a range of resources and support for legal career development on our dedicated webpage:
  https://www.qmul.ac.uk/ccls/careers-employability/career-support-students/
• We also offer a dedicated QMplus module called PG Law Careers, where students can access recordings, materials, and sign up for updates from our Career Consultants.
  Access it here: https://qmplus.qmul.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=22966

2. What is the Convention de Stage / Internship Agreement?

• The Convention de Stage is a required document for internships, especially for students based at our Paris campus.
• Some UK-based employers may also request a similar agreement before onboarding students.
• This document is a three-way agreement between Queen Mary (the university), the employer, and you (the student).
• Learn more here: https://www.qmul.ac.uk/ccls/careers-employability/career-support-students/internship-agreements/

3. Can I undertake work experience during my course?

• Home or EU students with Pre-Settled or Settled Status: You may work without restrictions.
• International (Overseas) Students:
• You may work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
• You may work full-time during official university vacation periods, including:
• Christmas Break (end of Semester 1 teaching – start of Semester 1 exams)
• Easter Break (end of Semester 2 teaching – start of Semester 3)
• You may also work full-time after your course has officially ended. The official course end date is listed on your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) and in MySIS. Please double-check both sources to ensure they match.
• You may undertake temporary or fixed-term roles post-study. However, to begin a permanent role, you must have applied for or hold a Graduate Visa or Skilled Worker Visa.
• For more details, please visit the QMUL Advice & Counselling Visa and Immigration Guidance.
• If you're unsure about your eligibility, email pglaw-internship@qmul.ac.uk for individual guidance.

4. My employer has requested a confirmation of study letter with my term dates. Where can I get this?

• You can request an official letter via the Student Enquiry Centre using AskQM.
• In some cases, this letter may already be available through your Gradintelligence account, which is activated at the start of your programme.

5. I still have further questions or concerns about employment

• If you’re unsure about any aspect of your employment eligibility or have concerns related to internships, work rights, or visa conditions, please contact us:  pglaw-internship@qmul.ac.uk
• We’ll provide you with the most up-to-date guidance and tailored advice based on your specific situation.