For students and early-career professionals, landing an internship at Spotify can be a major stepping stone into the tech or music industry. Known for its culture of innovation and inclusion, Spotify offers unique opportunities to work on meaningful projects while being mentored by some of the brightest minds in the industry. Whether you’re a computer science major, a marketing student, or an aspiring product manager, applying for an internship at Spotify requires preparation, persistence, and a genuine passion for audio experiences.
TL;DR (Too long, didn’t read):
Spotify internships are highly competitive and open to students and recent graduates from various academic backgrounds. The process typically includes an online application, a recorded video interview, and multiple rounds of technical or behavioral interviews. Candidates should tailor their applications, showcase a passion for Spotify’s mission, and highlight any relevant projects or experiences. Applying early and networking with Spotify employees can also significantly increase your chances.
Types of Internships at Spotify
Spotify offers a variety of internships across multiple departments. The main categories include:
- Engineering & Technology: Software engineering, data science, machine learning, and backend development.
- Business & Marketing: Branding, growth strategy, content marketing, and business analysis.
- Product Design & UX: User experience research, UI/UX design, and prototyping.
- Product Management: Roadmapping, customer insights, and product lifecycle management.
- People & Culture: Talent acquisition, HR strategy, and employee engagement.
Internships are usually posted in two major locations: Stockholm (Spotify’s headquarters) and New York City, but positions can appear in other cities like London or Boston too, with many of them being hybrid or fully remote options.
When and Where to Apply
Spotify typically opens internship applications twice a year:
- Summer Internships: Applications open between August and November of the previous year.
- Spring or Fall Internships: Less common, but may be posted around mid-year depending on team requirements.
The most reliable source of internship openings is Spotify’s official jobs site: Life at Spotify. Jobs are also listed on LinkedIn, Handshake, and university career centers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
1. Research the Role
Each internship listing on Spotify’s platform details the role, responsibilities, and qualifications. Understanding these thoroughly is crucial. Save roles of interest and identify how your experience aligns with what they’re looking for.
2. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume should be well-structured and customized for the specific role. Use language directly from the job description where appropriate and quantify any accomplishments with numbers or results.
While a cover letter is often optional, it is an excellent opportunity to express your passion for Spotify’s mission and how your values align with their culture. Include specific examples of projects or coursework relevant to the internship role.
3. Submit Your Application Early
Positions tend to fill quickly due to high interest. Applying in the first 1-2 weeks after a listing is posted dramatically improves your chances.
4. Prepare for Interviews
The Spotify interview process typically includes:
- Recorded Video Interview: General and behavioral questions answered via pre-recorded format (e.g., “Tell me about a time you solved a difficult problem.”).
- Technical Interviews (if applicable): Coding challenges or system design questions depending on the role.
- Final Interviews: Live conversations with managers and team members, assessing both technical skills and cultural fit.
5. Follow Up
Consider sending a polite email thanking the interviewers and reiterating your interest in the role. This can help you stand out and leave a positive impression.
Spotify’s Internship Culture
Interns at Spotify aren’t just given low-stakes tasks; they’re trusted with real projects that have impact. Spotify’s culture revolves around what they call “band culture”, focusing on collaboration, self-direction, and constant innovation.
Interns often rave about the inclusive environment, flexible work schedules, and support from mentors. Specific internship tracks also offer speaker series, Q&A sessions with executives, and even cultural activities like virtual karaoke or Zoom trivia nights.
Tips to Stand Out as an Applicant
Spotify receives thousands of internship applications yearly. To enhance your odds, keep the following tips in mind:
- Start Building a Portfolio Early: For engineering and design roles, a GitHub profile or personal website showcasing your projects is invaluable.
- Engage with Spotify’s Ecosystem: Participate in Spotify hackathons or experiment with their API if you are technically inclined.
- Network Strategically: Use LinkedIn to reach out to Spotify employees or prior interns. A short, respectful message expressing interest and asking for advice can go a long way.
- Stay Authentic: Spotify values creativity and individuality. Don’t shy away from letting your personality and interests shine through.
International Students and Eligibility
Spotify is a global company that welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. However, visa and work permit requirements may vary by location:
- U.S.-based internships typically require work authorization, but Spotify often sponsors eligible candidates.
- European locations may prefer candidates with eligibility to work in the EU, although exceptions can be made for exceptional candidates.
Make sure to read the requirements specific to each internship listing and apply accordingly.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Do I need to be in a specific field of study to apply for a Spotify internship?
- No, Spotify offers internships across various fields, including engineering, business, design, and more. However, your qualifications should match the specific requirements listed.
- What is the duration of Spotify internships?
- Most internships run for 10 to 12 weeks and are offered during the summer. Some roles may have different timelines based on regional or team-specific needs.
- Are Spotify internships paid?
- Yes, all Spotify internships are paid positions. Interns also receive benefits such as relocation support, equipment, and access to internal events.
- I applied but haven’t heard back—what should I do?
- Spotify receives a very high volume of applications. While they try to respond in a timely manner, sometimes it can take a few weeks. If more than a month passes, consider sending a polite follow-up or checking your spam folder.
- Can I apply for multiple internship roles?
- Yes, but make sure each application is tailored to the specific position. Submitting the same resume and cover letter to all roles may hurt your chances.
Landing an internship at Spotify may be competitive, but it’s far from impossible. With the right preparation, a strong application, and a passion for creativity and technology, applicants can set themselves apart and become part of one of the most innovative companies in the world of music and tech.