Freshfields

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - Strategic Risk & Corporate Governance

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Berlin

• Application timing: Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - Intellectual Property - Schwerpunkt Patentrecht

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Berlin, Düsseldorf, Munich

• Application timing: Apply through the live Freshfields vacancy.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Apply through the live Freshfields vacancy.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

Belgium - Freshfields NextGen AI Event

Type: Open Day / Event

Location: Belgium: Brussels

• Closing date: 2026-10-19
• Application timing: Applications close on 19 October 2026.
• Programme dates: 6–7 November 2026 at the Freshfields Brussels office; Freshfields does not publish exact times on its careers page.
• Duration: Two days
• Status: closed

Published application and programme dates

• Applications close on 19 October 2026.
• Programme: 6–7 November 2026 at the Freshfields Brussels office; Freshfields does not publish exact times on its careers page.

• Who can apply: Law students and other early-career legal candidates interested in law, AI and technology.
• Eligibility: Applicants should be interested in combining legal work with innovation and technology; technical interests or experience in coding, AI or data analysis are welcomed.

Netherlands - Student internship

Type: Internship

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Applications are open all year round. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Two-month Amsterdam placement in a practice group; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Two months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open all year round. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Two-month Amsterdam placement in a practice group; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Law students in the final phase of a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Academic requirements: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.

Hong Kong / United Kingdom - London-Asia Trainee Associate Internship Programme 2027

Type: Internship

Location: Hong Kong: Hong Kong; United Kingdom: London

• Applications open: 2026-08-01
• Closing date: 2026-12-31 Asia/Hong_Kong
• Application timing: Applications opened 1 August 2026 and close 31 December 2026, Hong Kong time.
• Programme dates: Four weeks in June or July 2027: three weeks in Hong Kong and a final week in London, visa-dependent.
• Duration: Four weeks
• Status: open

Published application and programme dates

• Applications opened 1 August 2026 and close 31 December 2026, Hong Kong time.
• Programme: Four weeks in June or July 2027: three weeks in Hong Kong and a final week in London, visa-dependent.

• Who can apply: Penultimate- or final-year university students and graduates in law or another discipline with relevant Asian-language skills.
• Eligibility: Native or native-level fluency in a relevant Asian language is required. The London week is visa-dependent.
• Academic requirements: Native or native-level fluency in a relevant Asian language is required. The London week is visa-dependent.
• Application process: Apply online with a CV and university transcripts. The process may include online assessments, a language test and an assessment centre.
• Assessments: Online assessments, language test and assessment centre.
• Progression: Successful interns may receive an offer for the London–Asia Trainee Associate Programme.
• Right to work: Participation in the London week depends on obtaining the required immigration permission.
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

Netherlands - Student-stage - Notariaat

Type: Internship

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Two months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Law students in the final phase of a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Academic requirements: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.

Life Sciences Job Simulator

Type: Virtual Experience

• Application timing: Available on demand; there is no application window or fixed closing date.
• Programme dates: Fully self-paced; two modules of approximately one to two hours each.
• Duration: Around one to two hours per module
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Available on demand; there is no application window or fixed closing date.
• Programme: Fully self-paced; two modules of approximately one to two hours each.

• Who can apply: Students and prospective applicants seeking a free introduction to legal work.
• Eligibility: Open online learning experience for students and prospective applicants.
• Application process: Open the official simulation, complete the self-paced tasks and receive a certificate.
• Progression: Commercial-law exploration and application preparation.
• Funding: Free online programme.
• Disability support: Accessibility support may be requested from the platform or recruitment team.

China - China Internship Programme

Type: Internship

Location: China: Beijing, Shanghai

• Application timing: Applications are accepted throughout the year by email; no fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Minimum three-month placement in Beijing or Shanghai; exact dates are arranged through the application process.
• Duration: Minimum three months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are accepted throughout the year by email; no fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Minimum three-month placement in Beijing or Shanghai; exact dates are arranged through the application process.

• Who can apply: Penultimate-year law students.
• Eligibility: degree routes: LLB JD Postgraduate legal study language and academic: Office-specific criteria apply
• Application process: Application Screening Interview Offer Send application to Asia Graduate Recruitment or use official route Screening Interview Offer
• Progression: Possible Legal Assistant Contract
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

United Kingdom - Solicitor Apprenticeship Programme

Type: Apprenticeship

Location: United Kingdom: London

• Applications open: 2026-11-02
• Closing date: 2027-01-28
• Application timing: Applications open 2 November 2026 and close 28 January 2027.
• Programme dates: Six-year London solicitor apprenticeship beginning in September 2027.
• Duration: Six years
• Status: upcoming

Published application and programme dates

• Applications open 2 November 2026 and close 28 January 2027.
• Programme: Six-year London solicitor apprenticeship beginning in September 2027.

• Who can apply: UK-national school leavers meeting academic and residency requirements.
• Eligibility: Applicants who have not studied at undergraduate level, have or are predicted AAB at A level or equivalent, hold at least seven GCSEs at grade 6/B or above including English and Maths, and meet the three-year UK residency requirement.
• Academic requirements: AAB at A level or equivalent; at least seven GCSEs at grade 6/B or above, including English and Maths.
• Application process: Online application, Career Conversation with the Early Careers team and assessment centre.
• Assessments: Career Conversation and assessment centre.
• Progression: Law LLB, SQE and qualification as a solicitor.
• Funding: Paid apprenticeship with the Law LLB and solicitor-qualification training funded through the programme.
• Right to work: Published route is for UK national school leavers meeting the three-year residency requirement. eligibility: UK national and three-year residency criteria apply.
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

Netherlands - Student-stage - Dispute Resolution

Type: Internship

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Two months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Law students in the final phase of a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Academic requirements: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.

France - Stage - Contentieux (F/H)

Type: Internship

Location: France: Paris

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: The Paris internship programme normally runs for six months from January to June or July to December; this vacancy does not publish exact dates.
• Duration: Normally six months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: The Paris internship programme normally runs for six months from January to June or July to December; this vacancy does not publish exact dates.

• Who can apply: Advanced law students and French bar-school candidates seeking a Litigation internship.
• Eligibility: Very good English, analytical ability, organisation and teamwork are required.
• Academic requirements: Very good English, analytical ability, organisation and teamwork are required.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy. The role page does not publish a separate selection timetable.

France - Stage - Fiscalité (F/H)

Type: Internship

Location: France: Paris

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: The Paris internship programme normally runs for six months from January to June or July to December; this vacancy does not publish exact dates.
• Duration: Normally six months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: The Paris internship programme normally runs for six months from January to June or July to December; this vacancy does not publish exact dates.

• Who can apply: Advanced law students and French bar-school candidates seeking a Tax internship.
• Eligibility: Excellent French and English, strong academics, analytical ability and teamwork are required; dual qualifications may be advantageous.
• Academic requirements: Excellent French and English, strong academics, analytical ability and teamwork are required; dual qualifications may be advantageous.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy. The role page does not publish a separate selection timetable.

United Kingdom - Trainee Associate Programme

Type: Training Contract

Location: United Kingdom: London

• Applications open: 2026-10-01
• Closing date: 2026-11-13
• Application timing: Applications opened 1 October 2026 and close 13 November 2026; no exact closing time is published.
• Programme dates: 2028 or 2029 intake; the exact start date is confirmed according to academic status.
• Duration: Two years
• Status: open

Published application and programme dates

• Applications opened 1 October 2026 and close 13 November 2026; no exact closing time is published.
• Programme: 2028 or 2029 intake; the exact start date is confirmed according to academic status.

• Who can apply: Penultimate- and final-year undergraduates from any degree discipline and recent graduates who are eligible to start in 2028 or 2029.
• Eligibility: Penultimate- and final-year undergraduates from any degree discipline and recent graduates who are eligible to start in 2028 or 2029.
• Academic requirements: No universal school-grade threshold is stated on the current programme page; academic eligibility is assessed in context.
• Application process: Online application Assessment centre Decision and offer Check eligibility Apply online Attend an assessment centre Offer and intake allocation
• Assessments: Online application followed by an assessment centre.
• Progression: Qualification as a solicitor in England and Wales and potential newly qualified associate role.
• Funding: Freshfields provides postgraduate legal-training support. Eligible future trainees may take the fully funded King’s LL.M. in Law and Technology with a £20,000 maintenance grant.
• Right to work: Applicants must have or obtain the right to work required for the programme.
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

Hong Kong - Hong Kong Legal Assistant Internship Programme (2027)

Type: Internship

Location: Hong Kong: Hong Kong

• Applications open: 2026-08-01
• Closing date: 2026-12-31 Asia/Hong_Kong
• Application timing: Applications opened 1 August 2026 and close 31 December 2026, Hong Kong time.
• Programme dates: Four-week internship in June or July 2027.
• Duration: Four weeks
• Status: open

Published application and programme dates

• Applications opened 1 August 2026 and close 31 December 2026, Hong Kong time.
• Programme: Four-week internship in June or July 2027.

• Who can apply: Law students studying for a law degree at a university in mainland China.
• Eligibility: A mainland China university law degree and fluent written and spoken English are required.
• Academic requirements: A mainland China university law degree and fluent written and spoken English are required.
• Application process: Apply through the live Freshfields Workday vacancy. The application form must be the applicant’s own work and complete and accurate.
• Progression: One-year Hong Kong Legal Assistant contract.
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

Belgium - Dispute Resolution - Winter / Spring / Summer associate

Type: Internship

Location: Belgium: Brussels

• Application timing: Applications are open all year round. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Four-to-six-week internships are available throughout the year; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Four to six weeks
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open all year round. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Four-to-six-week internships are available throughout the year; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Belgian law students starting or pursuing a master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Freshfields asks for a first-class academic record, fluency in English, French and/or Dutch, and evidence of teamwork, initiative and responsibility.
• Academic requirements: Freshfields asks for a first-class academic record, fluency in English, French and/or Dutch, and evidence of teamwork, initiative and responsibility.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy. The role page does not publish a separate selection timetable.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - Environment, Planning, Regulatory

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Düsseldorf

• Application timing: Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

Netherlands - Fresh Smoothie - Mei 2027

Type: Open Day / Event

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Registration is open.
• Programme dates: 4 May 2027, 10:00-11:00, Amsterdam.
• Duration: One hour
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Registration is open.
• Programme: 4 May 2027, 10:00-11:00, Amsterdam.

• Who can apply: Dutch-speaking law students and prospective legal candidates interested in Freshfields’ Amsterdam office.
• Eligibility: The event is conducted in Dutch and is available only to native or fluent Dutch speakers.
• Application process: Apply through the live Freshfields Workday event page; a CV is sufficient.

France - Stage - Finance

Type: Internship

Location: France: Paris

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: The Finance team is full for 2026 and 2027 and is accepting applications for the first and second halves of 2028; exact dates are not published.
• Duration: Normally six months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: The Finance team is full for 2026 and 2027 and is accepting applications for the first and second halves of 2028; exact dates are not published.

• Who can apply: Advanced law students and French bar-school candidates seeking a Finance internship.
• Eligibility: A strong business-law background, excellent English and an IEP, business-school qualification or LLM may be advantageous.
• Academic requirements: A strong business-law background, excellent English and an IEP, business-school qualification or LLM may be advantageous.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy. The role page does not publish a separate selection timetable.
• Assessments: Interview if shortlisted
• Progression: French finance-law career development
• Disability support: Freshfields Paris inclusive recruitment standards apply.

Belgium - Antitrust, Competition & Trade Intern (Summer/Winter/Spring)

Type: Internship

Location: Belgium: Brussels

• Application timing: Applications are open all year round. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: One-month summer, autumn, winter or spring placements are available; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: One month
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open all year round. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: One-month summer, autumn, winter or spring placements are available; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Belgian law students in the first or second year of a master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Freshfields asks for a first-class academic record, a strong interest in EU competition law, fluency in English and evidence of teamwork and initiative.
• Academic requirements: Freshfields asks for a first-class academic record, a strong interest in EU competition law, fluency in English and evidence of teamwork and initiative.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy. The role page does not publish a separate selection timetable.

France - Stage - Droit Public (F/H)

Type: Internship

Location: France: Paris

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Six-month placements run from January to June or July to December; the current vacancy does not publish a specific year or exact dates.
• Duration: Six months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Six-month placements run from January to June or July to December; the current vacancy does not publish a specific year or exact dates.

• Who can apply: Advanced law students and French bar-school candidates seeking a Public Law internship.
• Eligibility: Very good English, analytical ability, organisation and collaborative working are required.
• Academic requirements: Very good English, analytical ability, organisation and collaborative working are required.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy. The role page does not publish a separate selection timetable.

United States - Summer Associate Programme

Type: Summer Associate

Location: United States: Boston, New York, San Francisco, Washington DC

• Application timing: The Summer 2027 application portal is closed. Application dates for Summer 2028 have not yet been published.
• Programme dates: Ten-week Summer 2028 programme; exact programme and application dates have not yet been published.
• Duration: Ten weeks
• Status: upcoming

Published application and programme dates

• The Summer 2027 application portal is closed. Application dates for Summer 2028 have not yet been published.
• Programme: Ten-week Summer 2028 programme; exact programme and application dates have not yet been published.

• Who can apply: Eligible US law students meeting class-year and office criteria.
• Eligibility: offices: Boston New York San Francisco Silicon Valley Washington, DC study stage: US law students; exact class-year criteria will be published for the 2028 cycle
• Application process: Future application Callback interviews Offer Check back for 2028 application details Application Callback interviews Offer
• Assessments: Callback normally includes three partner interviews followed by a meal with associates; in-person is encouraged, virtual may be arranged.
• Progression: US associate offer consideration.
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - ESG and Sustainability Transformation

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Berlin

• Application timing: Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

France - Paris Internship Programme 2026 and 2027

Type: Internship

Location: France: Paris

• Application timing: Applications are accepted all year round.
• Programme dates: Six-month Paris placements run from January to June or July to December in 2026 and 2027.
• Duration: Six months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are accepted all year round.
• Programme: Six-month Paris placements run from January to June or July to December in 2026 and 2027.

• Who can apply: Law students with at least Master 1 in a specialised legal field.
• Eligibility: Law students with at least a Master 1 in a specialised legal field. Applications require a CV, cover letter and relevant certificates.
• Application process: Submit the online application with a CV, cover letter and relevant certificates; screening; interview; offer.
• Progression: French legal career exploration
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - Regulatory / Öffentliches Wirtschaftsrecht

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Hamburg

• Application timing: Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - Finanzaufsichtsrecht

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Frankfurt

• Application timing: Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

Netherlands - Student-stage - Corporate

Type: Internship

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Two months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Law students in the final phase of a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Academic requirements: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.

Hong Kong - Hong Kong Summer Internship Programme (2027)

Type: Internship

Location: Hong Kong: Hong Kong

• Applications open: 2026-08-01
• Closing date: 2026-12-31 Asia/Hong_Kong
• Application timing: Applications opened 1 August 2026 and close 31 December 2026, Hong Kong time.
• Programme dates: Two four-week programmes run in June and July 2027.
• Duration: Four weeks
• Status: open

Published application and programme dates

• Applications opened 1 August 2026 and close 31 December 2026, Hong Kong time.
• Programme: Two four-week programmes run in June and July 2027.

• Who can apply: Penultimate-year law students graduating in June 2028 and available for a 2029 Hong Kong training contract.
• Eligibility: Valid student status is required for Hong Kong training-visa purposes. Freshfields reviews academic achievement contextually.
• Academic requirements: Valid student status is required for Hong Kong training-visa purposes. Freshfields reviews academic achievement contextually.
• Application process: Apply online with a CV and university transcripts. Shortlisted applicants are invited to interview in the Hong Kong office or by Microsoft Teams.
• Assessments: Untimed online assessments Senior lawyer and People team interview
• Progression: Hong Kong Training Contract offer consideration on 1 August.
• Right to work: Applicants must hold valid student status at the time of the internship for Hong Kong training-visa purposes.
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

Netherlands - Fresh Smoothie - November 2026

Type: Open Day / Event

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Registration is open.
• Programme dates: 11 November 2026, 15:00-16:00, Amsterdam.
• Duration: One hour
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Registration is open.
• Programme: 11 November 2026, 15:00-16:00, Amsterdam.

• Who can apply: Dutch-speaking law students and prospective legal candidates interested in Freshfields’ Amsterdam office.
• Eligibility: The event is conducted in Dutch and is available only to native or fluent Dutch speakers.
• Application process: Apply through the live Freshfields Workday event page; a CV is sufficient.

Austria - Freshfields Unplugged Internship Program

Type: Internship

Location: Austria: Vienna

• Closing date: 2027-01-15 Europe/Vienna
• Application timing: Applications close on 15 January 2027 for placements between July and November 2027.
• Programme dates: One-month placement between July and November 2027; the exact month is arranged through the application process.
• Duration: One month
• Status: open

Published application and programme dates

• Applications close on 15 January 2027 for placements between July and November 2027.
• Programme: One-month placement between July and November 2027; the exact month is arranged through the application process.
• Applications close on 15 October 2026 for placements between February and June 2027.
• Programme: One-month placement between February and June 2027; the exact month is arranged through the application process.

• Who can apply: Law and business-law students with the published level of Austrian legal study and strong German and English.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have the legal foundation required to contribute to associate work. Relevant practical or international experience is helpful but not required.
• Academic requirements: The published study-progress requirements vary slightly by Austrian university and are explained on the official programme page and booklet.
• Application process: Apply online in German or English with a cover letter naming preferred internship months, a CV and all relevant university transcripts and certificates. Shortlisted applicants are invited to interview.
• Funding: The current vacancy publishes a minimum gross monthly salary of €1,970, with possible overpayment.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - Banking/ Finance

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg

• Application timing: Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

Italy - Stagiaire

Type: Internship

Location: Italy: Rome

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Two-month placement; the start date is agreed with the selected candidate around their academic commitments.
• Duration: Two months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Two-month placement; the start date is agreed with the selected candidate around their academic commitments.

• Who can apply: Fourth- and fifth-year law students.
• Eligibility: Freshfields asks for an academic average of at least 27/30 and English at C1 level.
• Academic requirements: Freshfields asks for an academic average of at least 27/30 and English at C1 level.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.
• Expenses: Paid internship; the vacancy does not publish an amount.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - Immobilienwirtschaftsrecht/M&A

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Frankfurt, Hamburg

• Application timing: Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

France - Stage - Restructuring & Insolvency F/H

Type: Internship

Location: France: Paris

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: The Paris internship programme normally runs for six months from January to June or July to December; this vacancy does not publish exact dates.
• Duration: Normally six months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: The Paris internship programme normally runs for six months from January to June or July to December; this vacancy does not publish exact dates.

• Who can apply: Advanced law students and French bar-school candidates seeking a Restructuring and Insolvency internship.
• Eligibility: Very good English, analytical ability, organisation and teamwork are required.
• Academic requirements: Very good English, analytical ability, organisation and teamwork are required.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy. The role page does not publish a separate selection timetable.

United Kingdom - First Years Insight Scheme

Type: Insight Programme

Location: United Kingdom: London

• Applications open: 2026-11-30
• Closing date: 2027-02-12
• Application timing: Applications open 30 November 2026 and close 12 February 2027.
• Programme dates: 7–8 April 2027.
• Duration: Two days
• Status: upcoming

Published application and programme dates

• Applications open 30 November 2026 and close 12 February 2027.
• Programme: 7–8 April 2027.

• Who can apply: First-year undergraduate students from any degree discipline.
• Eligibility: degree discipline: Any degree discipline exclusion: Not open to second-year students on a four-year course. study stage: First-year undergraduate
• Application process: Eligibility check Online application Programme invitation Check eligibility Apply online Attend the First Years Insight Scheme
• Progression: Future Vacation Scheme or Trainee Associate Programme application.
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

United Arab Emirates - Emirati Internship Programme

Type: Internship

Location: United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai

• Applications open: 2027-01-04
• Closing date: 2027-01-29
• Application timing: Applications open 4 January 2027 and close 29 January 2027.
• Programme dates: Up to four weeks in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.
• Duration: Up to four weeks
• Places: Six interns
• Status: upcoming

Published application and programme dates

• Applications open 4 January 2027 and close 29 January 2027.
• Programme: Up to four weeks in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.

• Who can apply: UAE nationals who are final-year law students or recent graduates.
• Eligibility: UAE nationals who are final-year law students or recent graduates and can attend in person in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.
• Academic requirements: Final-year law student or recent graduate.
• Application process: Submit the Workday application and questionnaire. Shortlisted applicants are interviewed in February 2027, with offers issued in March.
• Assessments: Interview
• Progression: Legal-career experience and professional network.
• Funding: AED 1,000 per week.
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

Launch into Law Job Simulator

Type: Virtual Experience

• Application timing: Available on demand; there is no application window or fixed closing date.
• Programme dates: Fully self-paced; two modules of approximately one to two hours each.
• Duration: Around one to two hours per module
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Available on demand; there is no application window or fixed closing date.
• Programme: Fully self-paced; two modules of approximately one to two hours each.

• Who can apply: Students and prospective applicants seeking a free introduction to commercial law.
• Eligibility: Open online learning experience for students and prospective applicants.
• Application process: Open the official simulation, complete the self-paced tasks and receive a certificate.
• Progression: Commercial-law exploration and application preparation.
• Funding: Free online programme.
• Disability support: Accessibility support may be requested from the platform or recruitment team.

France - Stage - Concurrence (F/H)

Type: Internship

Location: France: Paris

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: The Paris internship programme normally runs for six months from January to June or July to December; this vacancy does not publish exact dates.
• Duration: Normally six months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: The Paris internship programme normally runs for six months from January to June or July to December; this vacancy does not publish exact dates.

• Who can apply: Advanced law students and French bar-school candidates seeking a Competition Law internship.
• Eligibility: Very good English, analytical ability, organisation and teamwork are required.
• Academic requirements: Very good English, analytical ability, organisation and teamwork are required.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy. The role page does not publish a separate selection timetable.

Netherlands - Student-stage - Financial Regulatory

Type: Internship

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Two months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Law students in the final phase of a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Academic requirements: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.

Netherlands - Student-stage - People & Reward

Type: Internship

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Applications are accepted through the live Freshfields Amsterdam vacancy.
• Programme dates: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Two months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are accepted through the live Freshfields Amsterdam vacancy.
• Programme: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Law students in the final phase of a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Academic requirements: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.

Hong Kong - First Year Workshop and Insight Session

Type: Open Day / Event

Location: Hong Kong: Hong Kong

• Application timing: Registration is available through the linked form.
• Programme dates: February 2027.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Registration is available through the linked form.
• Programme: February 2027.

• Who can apply: First-year students interested in Freshfields Hong Kong and a legal career.
• Eligibility: study stage: First-year university student interest: Legal careers and Freshfields Hong Kong

Belgium - TAX Winter / Spring / Summer Associate

Type: Internship

Location: Belgium: Brussels

• Application timing: Applications are open all year round. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Four-to-six-week internships are available throughout the year; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Four to six weeks
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open all year round. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Four-to-six-week internships are available throughout the year; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Belgian law students starting or pursuing a master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Freshfields asks for a strong academic record, relevant language skills and evidence of teamwork, initiative and responsibility.
• Academic requirements: Freshfields asks for a strong academic record, relevant language skills and evidence of teamwork, initiative and responsibility.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy. The role page does not publish a separate selection timetable.

Belgium - Global Transactions - Winter / Spring / Summer Associate

Type: Internship

Location: Belgium: Brussels

• Application timing: Applications are open all year round. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Four-to-six-week internships are available throughout the year; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Four to six weeks
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open all year round. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Four-to-six-week internships are available throughout the year; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Belgian law students starting or pursuing a master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Freshfields asks for a first-class academic record, fluency in English, French and/or Dutch, and evidence of teamwork, initiative and responsibility.
• Academic requirements: Freshfields asks for a first-class academic record, fluency in English, French and/or Dutch, and evidence of teamwork, initiative and responsibility.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy. The role page does not publish a separate selection timetable.

France - Stage - Corporate (F/H)

Type: Internship

Location: France: Paris

• Application timing: Applications are accepted through the live Freshfields Paris vacancy.
• Programme dates: Three-to-six-month Paris Corporate internship.
• Duration: Three to six months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are accepted through the live Freshfields Paris vacancy.
• Programme: Three-to-six-month Paris Corporate internship.

• Who can apply: Advanced law students seeking a Paris Corporate internship.
• Eligibility: Very good written and spoken English, strong academics, initiative and teamwork are required.
• Academic requirements: Very good written and spoken English, strong academics, initiative and teamwork are required.
• Application process: Apply through the official Freshfields vacancy.

Belgium / Germany - Anwältin sucht Referendarin 2027: Unser Mentoringprogramm für Referendarinnen

Type: Mentoring

Location: Belgium: Brussels; Germany: Berlin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Munich

• Applications open: 2026-07-01
• Closing date: 2026-10-31 Europe/Berlin
• Application timing: Applications opened 1 July 2026 and close 31 October 2026.
• Programme dates: 1 February 2027–31 January 2028.
• Duration: One year
• Status: open

Published application and programme dates

• Applications opened 1 July 2026 and close 31 October 2026.
• Programme: 1 February 2027–31 January 2028.

• Who can apply: Women who have passed the First German State Examination and will undertake a legal-clerkship placement.
• Eligibility: Applicants must have passed the First German State Examination and plan to complete a legal-clerkship placement with Freshfields during the programme.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the Freshfields application portal with a cover letter, CV and relevant academic certificates.
• Progression: German legal-clerk, research-assistant and lawyer opportunities.
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request individual adjustments; exact arrangements are programme or event specific.

Netherlands - Fresh Smoothie - Maart 2027

Type: Open Day / Event

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Registration is open.
• Programme dates: 2 March 2027, 10:00-11:00, Amsterdam.
• Duration: One hour
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Registration is open.
• Programme: 2 March 2027, 10:00-11:00, Amsterdam.

• Who can apply: Dutch-speaking law students and prospective legal candidates interested in Freshfields’ Amsterdam office.
• Eligibility: The event is conducted in Dutch and is available only to native or fluent Dutch speakers.
• Application process: Apply through the live Freshfields Workday event page; a CV is sufficient.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - Corporate

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Berlin, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Munich

• Application timing: Applications are accepted through the live Freshfields vacancy.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are accepted through the live Freshfields vacancy.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

United Kingdom - Summer Vacation Scheme

Type: Vacation Scheme

Location: United Kingdom: London

• Applications open: 2026-09-01
• Closing date: 2026-10-26 17:00:00 Europe/London
• Application timing: Applications opened 1 September 2026 and close at 17:00 on 26 October 2026.
• Programme dates: Scheme one: 28 June–16 July 2027. Scheme two: 26 July–13 August 2027.
• Duration: Three weeks
• Places: Two schemes; number of places not published.
• Status: open

Published application and programme dates

• Applications opened 1 September 2026 and close at 17:00 on 26 October 2026.
• Programme: Scheme one: 28 June–16 July 2027. Scheme two: 26 July–13 August 2027.

• Who can apply: Penultimate- and final-year undergraduates, postgraduate students and graduates from any degree discipline who meet the academic and UK right-to-work requirements.
• Eligibility: academic: Minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree or international equivalent degree discipline: Any degree discipline right to work: UK right to work required student visa: Placement must fall outside term time study stage: Penultimate- or final-year undergraduate; postgraduate student; graduate
• Academic requirements: On track for, or awarded, at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree or international equivalent.
• Application process: Eligibility check Online application Assessment centre Offer Check eligibility Apply online Attend an assessment centre Scheme offer
• Assessments: Assessment centre; exact exercises not published on current page.
• Progression: Trainee Associate Programme assessment route.
• Funding: The scheme is paid, but the current official page does not publish the amount. pay: Paid; amount not published
• Right to work: Existing UK right to work required. Student visa holders must complete the scheme outside term time. vacation scheme: No sponsorship promise published; existing UK right to work required.
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

Belgium - Data and Employment - Winter / Spring / Summer Associate

Type: Internship

Location: Belgium: Brussels

• Application timing: Applications are accepted throughout the year.
• Programme dates: Four-to-six-week internships are available throughout the year; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Four to six weeks
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are accepted throughout the year.
• Programme: Four-to-six-week internships are available throughout the year; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Belgian law students starting or pursuing a master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Freshfields asks for a first-class academic record, fluency in English, French and/or Dutch, and evidence of teamwork, initiative and responsibility.
• Academic requirements: Freshfields asks for a first-class academic record, fluency in English, French and/or Dutch, and evidence of teamwork, initiative and responsibility.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields vacancy.

Netherlands - Student-stage - Restructuring & Insolvency

Type: Internship

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Two months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Law students in the final phase of a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Academic requirements: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - Restrukturierungs- & Insolvenzrecht

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Hamburg

• Application timing: Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - M&A / Gesellschaftsrecht

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Frankfurt

• Application timing: Applications are accepted through the live vacancy; no fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are accepted through the live vacancy; no fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

Netherlands - Student-stage - IP/IT

Type: Internship

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Applications are open on a rolling basis.
• Programme dates: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Two months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open on a rolling basis.
• Programme: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Law students in the final phase of a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Applicants should be in the final phase of a law bachelor’s degree or undertaking a law master’s, have or intend to obtain Dutch civiel effect, show interest in IP, data/privacy or cybersecurity, and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Academic requirements: Applicants should be in the final phase of a law bachelor’s degree or undertaking a law master’s, have or intend to obtain Dutch civiel effect, show interest in IP, data/privacy or cybersecurity, and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.

Belgium - Winter, Spring and Summer Associates

Type: Internship

Location: Belgium: Brussels

• Application timing: Applications are accepted throughout the year.
• Programme dates: Four-to-six-week Brussels placement available throughout the year; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Four to six weeks
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are accepted throughout the year.
• Programme: Four-to-six-week Brussels placement available throughout the year; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Law students starting or pursuing a master’s degree.
• Eligibility: For law students starting or pursuing a master’s degree and meeting the relevant practice-group requirements.
• Application process: Submit an official application\nScreening\nInterview\nOffer
• Progression: Belgian legal career exploration
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

Netherlands - Student-stage - Tax

Type: Internship

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Two months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Law students in the final phase of a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Academic requirements: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.

Singapore - International Arbitration Group Internship Programme

Type: Internship

Location: Singapore: Singapore

• Applications open: 2026-10-01
• Closing date: 2026-12-31
• Application timing: Applications open 1 October 2026 and close 31 December 2026.
• Programme dates: Three-to-six-week placements run between May and August 2027.
• Duration: Three to six weeks.
• Status: open

Published application and programme dates

• Applications open 1 October 2026 and close 31 December 2026.
• Programme: Three-to-six-week placements run between May and August 2027.
• Applications opened 1 October 2026 and close 31 December 2026; no exact closing time is published.
• Programme: Summer 2027: placements run for three to six weeks between May and August; exact individual dates are arranged around the successful candidate.

• Who can apply: Undergraduate and postgraduate students who meet the programme criteria.
• Eligibility: Undergraduate or postgraduate applicants who are strong academically and interested in international advocacy, research and writing.
• Application process: Online application CV Cover letter Legal writing sample of three to ten pages Academic transcripts Selection and interview if shortlisted
• Progression: International arbitration career exploration
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the recruitment team to request adjustments; arrangements are individual and programme specific.

Spain - Prácticas del Máster de Acceso a la Abogacía - Extracurriculares y Curriculares en 2027

Type: Internship

Location: Spain: Madrid

• Application timing: Applications are accepted through the live Freshfields Madrid vacancy.
• Programme dates: Curricular or extracurricular placement during 2027; exact dates depend on the relevant arrangement.
• Duration: One year
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are accepted through the live Freshfields Madrid vacancy.
• Programme: Curricular or extracurricular placement during 2027; exact dates depend on the relevant arrangement.

• Who can apply: Law graduates completing or entering the Spanish Máster de Acceso route for 2027 placements.
• Eligibility: Students completing a law or combined law degree in 2027 and planning to undertake the Spanish access master, or students beginning the access master in 2026. A strong academic record and excellent English are required.
• Academic requirements: Good academic record, excellent English, solid legal knowledge and a clear vocation for law.
• Application process: Submit a CV and academic transcript through the official Freshfields vacancy.
• Assessments: Application review and office selection process.
• Progression: Spanish lawyer career
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - Kapitalmarktrecht

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Frankfurt

• Application timing: Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

Italy - Stagiaire - Corporate/Finance/Real Estate

Type: Internship

Location: Italy: Milan

• Application timing: Applications are accepted while the official vacancy remains live.
• Programme dates: The Italy internship programme normally lasts two to three months; the start date is agreed with the selected candidate around their academic commitments and the firm’s needs.
• Duration: Two to three months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are accepted while the official vacancy remains live.
• Programme: The Italy internship programme normally lasts two to three months; the start date is agreed with the selected candidate around their academic commitments and the firm’s needs.

• Who can apply: Law students from the fourth year onwards.
• Eligibility: Freshfields asks for an academic average of at least 28/30 and English at C1 level.
• Academic requirements: Freshfields asks for an academic average of at least 28/30 and English at C1 level.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.
• Funding: A monthly expenses allowance is provided.
• Expenses: Monthly expenses reimbursement.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - Data & Technology

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Berlin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt

• Application timing: Applications are accepted through the live Freshfields vacancy.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are accepted through the live Freshfields vacancy.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the official Freshfields vacancy with the requested documents.

Spain - Summer internship program

Type: Internship

Location: Spain: Madrid

• Application timing: Applications are open through the official Freshfields careers portal.
• Programme dates: One-month placement in June or July 2027.
• Duration: One month
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open through the official Freshfields careers portal.
• Programme: One-month placement in June or July 2027.

• Who can apply: Penultimate-year law or law-combination students expected to complete their degree in 2028.
• Eligibility: Applicants should expect to complete a law or combined law degree in 2028, have a good academic record and have excellent English.
• Academic requirements: Good academic record, excellent English, solid legal knowledge and a clear interest in law and business.
• Application process: Apply through the Freshfields careers portal with a CV and law academic transcript. A cover letter may identify a preferred practice area. Shortlisted applicants proceed through the Madrid office selection process.
• Assessments: Interview; exact format not published.
• Progression: Spanish legal career exploration
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) - Arbeitsrecht

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Munich

• Application timing: Applications are accepted through the live Freshfields vacancy.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are accepted through the live Freshfields vacancy.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

Netherlands - Fresh Smoothie - Januari 2027

Type: Open Day / Event

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Registration is open.
• Programme dates: 5 January 2027, 10:00-11:00, Amsterdam.
• Duration: One hour
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Registration is open.
• Programme: 5 January 2027, 10:00-11:00, Amsterdam.

• Who can apply: Dutch-speaking law students and prospective legal candidates interested in Freshfields’ Amsterdam office.
• Eligibility: The event is conducted in Dutch and is available only to native or fluent Dutch speakers.
• Application process: Apply through the live Freshfields Workday event page; a CV is sufficient.

France - Stage - Droit Social (F/H)

Type: Internship

Location: France: Paris

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: The Paris internship programme normally runs for six months from January to June or July to December; this vacancy does not publish exact dates.
• Duration: Normally six months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: The Paris internship programme normally runs for six months from January to June or July to December; this vacancy does not publish exact dates.

• Who can apply: Advanced law students seeking a Paris Employment Law internship.
• Eligibility: Excellent written and spoken French and English, analytical ability, organisation and teamwork are required.
• Academic requirements: Excellent written and spoken French and English, analytical ability, organisation and teamwork are required.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy. The role page does not publish a separate selection timetable.

Netherlands - Student-stage - Finance

Type: Internship

Location: Netherlands: Amsterdam

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.
• Duration: Two months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: Two-month Amsterdam placement; exact dates are agreed through the application process.

• Who can apply: Law students in the final phase of a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Academic requirements: Applicants should have, or intend to obtain, Dutch civiel effect, demonstrate legal interest and be fluent in Dutch and English.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.

Italy - Stagiaire - Labour

Type: Internship

Location: Italy: Milan

• Application timing: Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme dates: The Italy internship programme normally lasts two to three months; the start date is agreed with the selected candidate around their academic commitments and the firm’s needs.
• Duration: Two to three months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open. No fixed closing date is published.
• Programme: The Italy internship programme normally lasts two to three months; the start date is agreed with the selected candidate around their academic commitments and the firm’s needs.

• Who can apply: Law students from the fourth year onwards.
• Eligibility: Freshfields asks for an academic average of at least 28/30 and English at C1 level.
• Academic requirements: Freshfields asks for an academic average of at least 28/30 and English at C1 level.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.
• Expenses: Monthly expenses reimbursement; the vacancy does not publish an amount.

Germany - Referendare (m/w/x) Intellectual Property - Schwerpunkt IP Litigation

Type: Referendariat

Location: Germany: Düsseldorf

• Application timing: Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme dates: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open now. No fixed closing date is published; applicants should state their earliest available start date.
• Programme: Start date is arranged with the recruiting team.

• Who can apply: German legal clerks and legal research assistants who have completed the First State Examination.
• Eligibility: Applicants should have completed the First German State Examination, or the equivalent legal study stage specified by the vacancy, with strong results.
• Academic requirements: Above-average legal examination results and strong English are expected.
• Application process: Apply through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy with the documents requested on the role page.

Belgium / Germany - Smart Challenge - Spring Internship Programme 2027

Type: Internship

Location: Belgium: Brussels; Germany: Berlin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Munich

• Applications open: 2026-10-09
• Closing date: 2026-11-01 Europe/Berlin
• Application timing: Applications opened 9 October 2026 and close 1 November 2026; no exact closing time is published.
• Programme dates: Five-week programme from 15 February to 19 March 2027.
• Duration: Five weeks
• Status: open

Published application and programme dates

• Applications opened 9 October 2026 and close 1 November 2026; no exact closing time is published.
• Programme: Five-week programme from 15 February to 19 March 2027.

• Who can apply: Law students who have passed the German intermediate examination (Zwischenprüfung).
• Eligibility: Applicants must be studying law and have passed the German intermediate examination (Zwischenprüfung). See the current official vacancy for the complete application requirements.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy and upload the documents requested there.
• Progression: German legal career exploration
• Disability support: Applicants can contact the relevant recruitment team to request adjustments; exact arrangements are individual and programme specific.

France - Stage - Droit social - Juillet-Décembre 2027

Type: Internship

Location: France: Paris

• Application timing: Applications are open through the current official vacancy.
• Programme dates: Six-month placement from July to December 2027.
• Duration: Six months
• Status: rolling

Published application and programme dates

• Applications are open through the current official vacancy.
• Programme: Six-month placement from July to December 2027.

• Who can apply: Advanced law students seeking a Paris Employment Law internship.
• Eligibility: Excellent written and spoken French and English, analytical ability, organisation and teamwork are required.
• Academic requirements: Excellent written and spoken French and English, analytical ability, organisation and teamwork are required.
• Application process: Apply online through the current Freshfields Workday vacancy.
• Assessments: Interview if shortlisted
• Progression: French legal career development
• Disability support: The posting states all positions are open to people with disabilities.