Summer Intelligence Internship
What is it?
For the 2023/24 academic year, if you’re in your final or penultimate year of university and from a Black, Asian or ethnic minority background and from a socially or economically disadvantaged background, this Internship will help you discover if a career in intelligence is right for you. You won’t just be sitting on the sidelines - this is your opportunity to get unique access to our operations, gain experience, and make key contributions to real projects.
We’re confining the applications for this Internship to those within this demographic due to a current underrepresentation in our workforce. You could choose to work here at MI5, or with our partner agencies GCHQ or MI6 – your fresh perspective will be welcomed and truly valued by our friendly teams operating at the heart of national security.
What will you do?
Over 11 weeks at MI5, you’ll help us investigate and disrupt international terrorism. You’ll learn how front-line operations are run, piece together intelligence and create a picture of possible threats. There will also be the chance to contribute to setting strategies, explain risks to a range of audiences and work as part of a close-knit, multi-disciplinary team. By the end of the Internship, you’ll understand how we keep the UK safe.
No matter which organisation you choose, you’re not just there to shadow. From day one, you’ll be welcomed in and treated like members of our organisation with real work to do. With unprecedented exposure to the way we work, as well as our social societies, mentors, and affinity groups, you’ll get a realistic view of life at a UK intelligence service. And at the end, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for a permanent role if you wish to do so.
Who do we look for?
You don’t need to be studying for a particular degree, or even predicted a certain grade. We’re after inquisitive problem solvers with real enthusiasm, team spirit and a love of learning; individuals who enjoy working collaboratively and want to make a positive impact.
Whatever your background, you’ll find a place for your skills. You’ll be encouraged to get involved, share your insights and help us see things differently. If you’re worried about the vetting process, there’s no need – we understand families come in all forms so if you can’t answer certain questions, that’s okay. For more information on the eligibility criteria for this Internship, please see below.
What will you get?
As well as an experience you won’t get anywhere else, you’ll receive a salary of £5,701 in London (for their 11-week Internship), £4,165 in Cheltenham (for their 10-week Internship), five days’ annual leave, and access to our on-site facilities including cafes and restaurants.
Additionally, we’ll cover the costs of your accommodation for the duration of the Internship. You’ll be offered a single en-suite room in a flat with fully equipped, shared kitchens. All accommodation is located close to local amenities and includes free Wi-Fi as well as a bedding and linen change service once a week.
What happens at the end?
When you complete your Internship, you’ll be invited to apply for a permanent position with us. At MI5 you can apply to become an Intelligence Officer on our Intelligence Officer Development Programme (IODP). Please note, you’ll still have to go through a competitive selection process to secure a place on this programme.
If you choose to do the Internship at MI6, you’ll be encouraged to apply for a full-time Intelligence Officer (IO) role. Again, you’ll need to go through the assessment process – slots are reserved in advance for September-November. And at GCHQ, you'll be invited to apply for a permanent role as an Intelligence Data Analyst.