The legal framework for internships in France
Under Articles L124-1 to L124-20 of the French Education Code, an internship must meet three conditions: (1) a coherent educational programme linked to the internship; (2) an agreement signed by the intern, the host company and a training organisation; (3) a tutor appointed by the company. The law does not require the intern to be a student at a traditional university or school.
Warning: "blank agreement PDFs" sold online for €30–80 are not signed by a training organisation, have no legal value and may expose the company to labour law risks.
Who is this for?
After graduating
You've finished your studies and are no longer enrolled, but the company requires an agreement.
Gap year (césure)
You want French work experience while pausing your studies.
Career change
You want to enter a new field through an internship.
Job seeking
You want an internship to land your first job in France.
The process in three steps
Step 1: Free pre-agreement
Fill in the form in 2 minutes and instantly get a pre-agreement to show the company. No card required.
Step 2: Company approval
The company confirms it will host you (role, dates, tutor, stipend).
Step 3: Enrol in the Academy
€297 or 3 × €99 for a tailored educational programme and the official signed tripartite agreement.
Intern rights in 2026
- Over 308 hours: the company must pay a stipend of at least €4.50 per hour.
- Same working hours as employees, usually 35 hours per week.
- Maximum 6 months per company and per academic year.
- Access to meal vouchers and transport reimbursement (if employees receive them).
- An internship certificate (attestation de stage) at the end, for your CV.
Pricing
€297or 3 × €99
Includes: file review, tailored educational programme, official tripartite agreement and civil liability insurance certificate. Nothing to pay before the company agrees.
Frequently asked questions
Can I legally do an internship in France without a school?
Yes. Articles L124-1 to L124-20 of the French Education Code do not require interns to be enrolled in a traditional school. They require a coherent educational programme and an internship agreement signed by three parties (convention tripartite): the intern, the host company and a training organisation. Saint Catherine Academy provides that framework.
What is a pre-agreement (pré-convention)?
A free draft agreement listing the company, role, dates and conditions. You can hand it to the company's HR during interviews to show you can obtain an official tripartite agreement. It is not the final signed agreement.
How much does the official agreement cost, and when do I pay?
Enrolling in the Academy with an official tripartite agreement costs €297 (incl. VAT), or 3 payments of €99. You only pay once the company has agreed in writing to host you.
How fast can I get the official agreement?
Once we receive a complete and consistent file, we aim to prepare the agreement within 24 business hours, then it is signed by all three parties.
How much is the internship stipend (gratification)?
When an internship exceeds 308 hours (about 2 months full time), the company must pay a stipend. The 2026 legal minimum is €4.50 per hour (around €600 per month at 35 hours/week).
What is the maximum internship length?
6 months (924 hours) per company and per academic year.
Does this affect my residence status?
The internship agreement does not replace a residence permit. Check that your permit allows you to do an internship in France (e.g. student permit, APS job-search permit). If in doubt, ask your préfecture.
Can the company refuse?
Yes, companies have their own internal processes. Our role is to provide a clear, compliant file: educational programme, missions, tutor details and the tripartite agreement.
Am I insured during the internship?
Yes. The training organisation provides a civil liability insurance certificate and the company covers work accidents (DSN declaration). Both are stated in the agreement.