FAQ

Answers to frequently asked questions about the MPIIB International Summer Internship. If you cannot find the answer to your question here, please contact us. Please note that due to the amount of requests we receive, it may take some time for us to get back to you.

Financing and visa

Do I receive financial support through the internship program?

Yes, you will receive a stipend of about 1,300 € per month, which will be enough to cover for housing and living costs. In addition, we will cover the cost of your travel to and from Berlin.

How do I apply for a visa? Can you provide me with the documents I need for my visa?

Your visa application will be your responsibility. Upon acceptance, you will be contacted by our International Office who will assist you with the process.

Will the program cover my visa fees?

Unfortunately, we are unable to cover visa fees. However, the program does include a stipend to cover living expenses, housing, and a travel compensation.

Eligibility

I have a Master’s degree (and have not yet started my PhD). Am I eligible to apply?

Unfortunately, we can only accept students who are enrolled at a university for the entire duration of the internship.

Does my background in [some field] fit the program?

We do not have strict criteria for which programs are eligible for this internship. If your scientific interests lie in one of the areas of research at our institute and you have acquired relevant skills during your studies or work experience that meet the requirements of the projects for which you are applying, you are eligible to apply.

I would like to do an internship at your institute, but I have not experienced any significant difficulties that would limit my future education. Can I still apply?

Yes, you can apply. However, preference will be given to applicants who can demonstrate significant limitations and comparable qualifications. Given the number of applications we receive, we recommend that you send an unsolicited application to the lab of your interest instead.

I missed the deadline, can I still apply?

No, if you miss the deadline, your application will not be considered this year. We encourage you to apply in the next round.

Application process

I am currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program, which transcripts should I submit?

Please submit transcripts from all semesters you have completed. You do not need to submit grades from the semester you are currently enrolled in and have not yet completed.

Do I need to have all my transcripts translated into English?

Yes. The coordinating team and the scholars reviewing your application will need to be able to read your transcripts, and English is the only language they will all understand. You may translate them yourself. However, you should be aware that if you are accepted, you will need official translations (e.g. for your visa).

Is it best to apply for only one project or are my chances better if I apply for two?

Neither. We will assess whether your skills and interests match the requirements of the projects you choose. Therefore, you should apply to only those projects that are a good fit for you.

When will I know the results of the application process?

We begin reviewing applications immediately after the deadline. This process will take some time. If your application is shortlisted, you will be contacted and invited to an online interview. A final decision will be made in early February 2024. Please note that due to the high volume of applications we receive, we will not be able to provide individual feedback to applicants. If you have not been contacted by March 2024, please assume that your application has not been retained. Please also check your spam folder regularly.

During the internship

Where will the internship take place and can it be conducted virtually?

The internship is full-time. However, in consultation with your supervisor, you may attend other classes, events or activities during working hours.

Do I have to stay in the accommodation recommended by the internship program?

Technically, no. However, the housing market in Berlin is very competitive, so it is highly unlikely that you will be able to find affordable housing. The program offers you affordable housing close to the institute, so that you can walk and not have to pay for public transportation.

Can I work on my own project during the internship?

Unfortunately, it is not possible to bring your own project and work on it during the internship. Projects must be chosen from those proposed at the time of application.

Can I still take classes at my home university during the internship?

The internship is full-time. However, in consultation with your supervisor, you may attend other classes, events or activities during working hours.