FAQ

How does the application and selecting process work?

Being selected for DW's bilingual international journalism traineeship is a three-stage process.

Being selected for DW's bilingual (German-English) international journalism traineeship is a three-stage process.

First round
In the initial round, all candidates fill in their online applications via our online application system. You will be asked to upload proof of your studies or training. You will also be asked to include up to three work samples.

These can be videos, audio samples, texts or social media posts. It's important that the samples be in one of the DW program languages. We accept various languages so long as a DW program language is audible. We expect your samples to be in your native language as well as in English and/or German. A certified translation of your work sample is not required.

At the end of the online application there are several questions which you can answer with as much creativity as you wish. We do not accept applications sent via e-mail, mail or social media.

We select 50-60 applicants for the second round. They are then invited to an online assessment center, which is scheduled for the end of May.This is where we can get a better sense of their creativity, team spirit and language skills. During the day candidates complete various tasks including, a timed writing test, a guided discussion with tutors and filming a TikTok video. DW editors who are native speakers of the languages judge the candidates' language proficiency.

Third round
We select approximately 20 candidates and inform each one of our decision that they made it into the last round. These final candidates meet with DW's directors, chief editors and top journalists.

Application process

First steps when applying

Before you apply, make sure you fulfill the requirements. You can find a list in the FAQs under: "What are the requirements for the bilingual international traineeship?" Then make sure you have all the necessary documents at hand. You can find a list in the FAQs under "Which documents do I need for the online application?"
Application process

Getting started with the application

To ensure your application process runs smoothly, go to "How can I apply to the traineeship?" and "What do I need to check before applying online?" in the FAQs. You can then start, but be aware that you can only apply online. We will activate the link on our website when we begin accepting applications. We will only consider applications submitted via the application portal.
Application process

After submitting your application

After you've successfully filled out your online application, we will send you a confirmation email containing further information and application tasks. Please check your email inbox, and if necessary, your spam folder. We will also let you know via email whether you have made it to the next round. Learn more in the FAQs under "How does the application and selection process work?"
Application process

Almost there: Final steps

In mid-May, successful candidates so far take part in our online assessment center and undergo several tasks and interviews. Find out more about how the process works under "How does the application and selection process work?" And then it's a matter of waiting until you find out whether you've been accepted or not. But don't worry – if you didn't make it this time, you can try again next year!

Author: Jennifer Pahlke