UCL IXN Pro: paid internships with our students out of term time

UCL Computer Science students are among the best in the world and can work for you during their summer holidays. You will:

• Gain a fresh perspective on your IT projects and explore the latest topics in the field.
• Access high-calibre resources for short-term projects.
• Take on students who already have experience of working with industry during their course.
• Be the first to connect with the best AI talent in the UK.
• Help the next generation of computer scientists launch their careers.
• Develop your own employees’ leadership skills.

This programme uses the Industry Exchange Network (IXN) teaching methodology, recognised as best practice by the UK government. Pioneered at UCL in 2011, it is now deployed across 15 universities. 

The success of the UCL IXN projects has led to demand for these paid opportunities outside term time. Thanks to the IXN programme, our students have already gained industry experience, making them well-equipped to work in your organisation.

Our dedicated Strategic Alliances Team (SAT) works closely with our partner companies to understand their internship needs. This means we identify the most suitable candidates to work with you.  

We manage the process and support you by streamlining recruitment, shortlisting all applicants, and matching the most suitable candidates to internship positions, so that companies focus on interviewing only the best candidates. However, companies would still need to be responsible for contracting and payroll duties.

The UCL IXN Pro process

Learn about the details of the UCL IXN Pro programme, the timelines and both your and UCL’s responsibilities. 

• Internship durations vary by negotiation with the students. They can be from 2 to 14 weeks long.    
• Internships take place during the UCL summer holidays.
• We select candidates using the IXN teaching methodology. Students are matched to internship projects through a structured, student-first process that prioritises their interests and relevant skills. The approach also reflects our EDI and Athena Swan commitments by ensuring that women and underrepresented groups receive equitable visibility at the interview stage.
• IXN Pro internships are available only to undergraduate students.
• You must become a Bronze Member of the Friends of UCL Computer Science partnership programme by signing our Framework Agreement before we introduce you to the students. You can then interview them.
• UCL IXN Pro connects students and organisations. The internship contract is between you and the student.  There must be a contract in place before work begins.
• You are responsible for managing your intern. You should provide a technical mentor who will supply a brief, authorise the use of data and methods, and provide all the infrastructure needed to support the intern.
• The IP and materials belong to your company unless otherwise agreed with your intern.

Costs

A referral fee and service charges may apply, subject to terms specified in the framework agreement.

Timeline and key dates for 2026

Get involved

The UCL Computer Science department works very closely with industry, sharing our knowledge and research in long-lasting, mutually beneficial partnerships. 

We also have sponsorship opportunities that enable you to invest in students’ education and promote your commercial brand.