UK Internship Salary Per Month 2026
UK Internship Salary Per Month (2026 Guide)
Introduction
Internships are one of the best ways to gain real work experience in the UK. For many students and recent graduates, they provide a stepping stone into full-time employment. But one of the most common questions people ask is simple: how much do interns actually earn in the UK each month?
The answer can vary depending on the company, industry, and location. Some internships pay the minimum wage, while others offer competitive monthly salaries, especially in sectors like finance, technology, and consulting.
In this guide, we’ll break down typical UK internship salaries per month, explain what affects your pay, and share tips on how to find well-paid internships in 2026.
Average UK Internship Salary Per Month
Internship pay in the UK can vary quite a bit. However, most paid internships fall within a fairly predictable range.
Average monthly internship salary in the UK (2026):
£1,200 – £1,500 per month – Entry-level or small company internships
£1,500 – £2,000 per month – Standard paid internships
£2,000 – £3,000+ per month – High-paying corporate internships
These figures depend on factors such as working hours, industry, and location. Internships in large cities, especially London, usually pay more because of the higher cost of living.
For students working part-time internships, the monthly income may be closer to £700 – £1,200, depending on the number of hours worked.
Internship Pay Based on Industry
Different industries offer very different salary levels. Some sectors rely heavily on interns and are willing to pay well for talented candidates.
Technology Internships
Tech companies often offer some of the highest internship salaries.
Typical monthly pay:
£2,000 – £3,000 per month
Roles may include:
Software developer intern
Data analyst intern
IT support intern
Cybersecurity intern
Students studying computer science, data science, or engineering often find strong opportunities in this field.
Finance and Banking Internships
Internships in finance, investment banking, or accounting are also known for high pay.
Typical monthly salary:
£2,000 – £3,500 per month
Common roles include:
Finance analyst intern
Accounting intern
Investment banking intern
Risk analyst intern
Large financial firms in London usually offer the highest salaries.
Marketing and Business Internships
Marketing and business internships are common for students studying business, media, or management.
Average monthly pay:
£1,400 – £2,200 per month
Typical roles include:
Digital marketing intern
Social media intern
Business development intern
Market research intern
These internships are widely available across the UK.
Hospitality and Retail Internships
Some internships in hospitality, tourism, and retail may offer lower salaries compared to corporate roles.
Typical monthly pay:
£1,100 – £1,500 per month
However, these roles still provide valuable experience, especially for students interested in customer service or hotel management careers.
Do UK Interns Get Paid Minimum Wage?
In most cases, yes.
If you are classified as a worker, UK law requires employers to pay at least the National Minimum Wage.
Approximate minimum wage rates (2026 estimate):
Age 21 and over: about £11–£12 per hour
Age 18–20: about £8–£10 per hour
Under 18: lower rate
If you work 35–40 hours per week, this usually equals around:
£1,600 – £2,000 per month before tax.
However, there are some exceptions. For example:
Student placements as part of university courses may sometimes be unpaid.
Short voluntary internships may also be unpaid in certain cases.
Always check the contract carefully before accepting any internship.
Highest Paying Internship Cities in the UK
Where you work also plays a big role in how much you earn.
London
London offers the highest internship salaries in the UK.
Average monthly internship salary:
£2,000 – £3,500
Major industries:
Finance
Technology
Media
Consulting
However, rent and living costs are also much higher.
Manchester
Manchester is one of the fastest-growing job markets for students.
Average monthly internship salary:
£1,400 – £2,200
Industries:
Marketing
Technology
Digital media
Birmingham
Birmingham offers strong internship opportunities in business and finance.
Typical pay:
£1,300 – £2,000 per month
The cost of living is also lower than London.
Leeds and Nottingham
These cities are popular among students and offer many internships with local companies.
Average monthly pay:
£1,200 – £1,800
They’re especially good for marketing, retail, and startup roles.
How International Students Are Paid During Internships
International students studying in the UK can usually take paid internships, but there are some rules.
Most students on a Student Visa can:
Work up to 20 hours per week during term time
Work full-time during holidays
Because of this, many students earn between:
£800 – £1,500 per month during term time internships.
During summer internships, the monthly income can increase to £1,500 – £2,500.
Always check your visa conditions before applying.
Best Websites to Find Paid Internships in the UK
Here are some trusted websites where you can find internship opportunities.
1. LinkedIn Jobs
LinkedIn is one of the best platforms for internships and graduate roles. Many UK companies post internship positions here first.
2. Indeed UK
You can search for terms like:
“Paid internship UK”
“Summer internship”
“Student internship UK”
It also allows you to filter by salary and location.
3. Prospects UK
A popular website for students and graduates. It offers career advice and internship listings across many industries.
4. RateMyPlacement
https://www.ratemyplacement.co.uk
This platform is specifically focused on internships and placements. It also shows real student reviews about companies.
5. Gradcracker
Best for students in:
Engineering
Technology
Science
Data and analytics
Many well-known companies recruit interns through this platform.
Tips to Get a Higher-Paying Internship
Getting a good internship salary often depends on preparation and strategy.
Here are some practical tips:
Focus on in-demand skills
Skills that increase your value include:
Data analysis
Coding
Digital marketing
Project management
Apply early
Many large companies open internship applications 6–9 months before the start date, especially for summer internships.
Improve your CV
A strong CV should include:
Academic achievements
Relevant coursework
Volunteer experience
Skills and certifications
Even small projects can make a big difference.
Use university career services
Most UK universities offer:
Internship job boards
CV reviews
Employer networking events
These resources can significantly increase your chances of getting a paid internship.
FAQs
How much do interns earn per month in the UK?
Most interns earn between £1,200 and £2,000 per month. However, internships in industries like finance or tech may pay £2,500 or more.
Are internships in the UK always paid?
Not always. Some internships, especially short placements or university-based programs, may be unpaid. However, most professional internships today offer at least minimum wage.
Can international students get paid internships in the UK?
Yes. International students on a Student Visa can usually work 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, allowing them to earn from internships.
Which internships pay the most in the UK?
Internships in the following industries tend to pay the highest salaries:
Finance and investment banking
Technology and software development
Consulting
Data science
Final Thoughts
Internships in the UK can be both financially rewarding and career-boosting. While the average UK internship salary per month typically ranges from £1,200 to £2,000, some industries offer significantly higher pay.
Your salary will depend on several factors, including the industry, company size, location, and your skill set. Cities like London often offer the highest pay, but opportunities exist across the entire UK.
If you’re a student or recent graduate, internships are one of the best ways to gain experience, build professional connections, and increase your chances of landing a full-time job after graduation.
Start applying early, focus on developing valuable skills, and use trusted job platforms to find the best opportunities. The right internship can open the door to a successful career.
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