If you’re a student dreaming about a paid government internship that actually gives you real-world skills and a look inside policymaking, you’re in the right place. This guide is for anyone who wants more than just a certificate—you’re after experience, exposure, and growth. Here, you’ll find a clear and friendly walk-through of the DGFT Summer Internship for 2025. I’ll break down the benefits, application steps, eligibility, and expert tips from my years of blogging about careers and internships. By the end, you’ll know exactly what you need to do to put your best foot forward for this unique opportunity.
What is the DGFT Paid Internship?
The DGFT paid internship is a chance to work with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, which falls under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. DGFT plays a major role in India’s international trade policies, making it one of the most relevant places for students interested in economics, law, management, and policy.
Students selected for this program get:
- A stipend: Paid internships are rare in the government sector, but DGFT offers a competitive stipend for its summer interns.
- Two months of hands-on experience: The 2025 program runs from June 1st to July 31st.
- Real exposure: Work side-by-side with policymakers, analyze trade documentation, and help shape new procedures.
- Official certificate: Successful interns receive a certificate from the DGFT, which adds serious weight to any resume.
- Prime location: Internships usually take place at DGFT headquarters or regional offices, which means you get a front-row seat to the working of India’s foreign trade policies.
For the full official details, you can refer to the Summer Internship Scheme of DGFT.
Why is this internship so popular? Compared to other government internships, DGFT stands out for its hands-on involvement, strong mentorship, and a stipend that takes some burden off your shoulders. It’s not just a line on your resume—it’s a step into the center of India’s trade machinery.
Who is Eligible and What are the Requirements?
Eligibility for the DGFT internship is straightforward, but each requirement has a clear reason behind it. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Education: You must be enrolled in a recognized university or institution. Final-year undergraduate students, postgraduates, and research scholars are welcome.
- Preferred degrees: Fields like economics, law, management, international business, or related streams get preference.
- Marks requirement: Usually, a minimum of 60% aggregate marks or equivalent grade. This helps ensure selected interns can handle the analytical work.
- Nationality: Indian citizens studying in India or abroad may apply.
- Documents required: Updated resume, academic transcripts, recommendation letter (from your institution), permission letter (from your university/college), and a declaration of secrecy.
- Confidentiality rules: You’ll need to sign a declaration that you will keep all sensitive information private, both during and after the internship.
Every requirement serves a purpose. They help the government select motivated students who’ll take the work seriously and maintain confidentiality—essential for any government project. If you’re studying abroad but hold Indian citizenship, you’re still eligible, giving this internship a truly inclusive reach.
You can read more about official eligibility and requirements directly on the DGFT Internship Scheme page.
How to Apply Step-by-Step (With Tips to Stand Out)
Applying doesn’t have to be confusing. As someone who’s seen hundreds of students get stuck on small details, here’s a no-nonsense roadmap:
- Review the official internship advertisement and note the application deadlines. The 2025 summer batch runs from June to July.
- Prepare your documents:
- Resume (tailored to highlight relevant coursework or projects)
- Mark sheets and transcripts
- Recommendation or permission letter from your institution
- Declaration of secrecy (format provided by DGFT)
- Fill out the online application form via the DGFT portal.
- Double-check everything before submitting.
Filling Out the Online Application Form
You’ll need to include:
- Basic personal details
- Contact information
- Educational background (make sure there are no discrepancies)
- Information about your field of study and why you’re interested in the DGFT internship
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Uploading unclear or incomplete documents
- Typos in your email or phone number
- Missing out on the declaration or permission letter
- Not customizing your statement of purpose (don’t just paste your resume!)
Submitting Your Declaration and Permission Letter
The declaration of secrecy is a non-negotiable part of the process. It assures the DGFT that you’ll handle sensitive data with care. Your academic permission letter is proof that your institution supports your internship application.
- Download the format from the official ad (DGFT PDF notification)
- Get it signed and stamped by your institution
- Scan and upload with your application
These documents show you’re committed, serious, and have your university’s backing.
Understanding the Selection Process
After applications close, here’s what typically happens:
- Shortlisting: DGFT officials screen applications for eligibility, academic achievement, and relevant interest in trade policy.
- Interview round: Shortlisted candidates receive an email for a brief interview (online or in-person). Questions usually cover your academic background, motivation, and awareness of current trade issues.
- Final selection: If you clear the interview, you’ll get an offer letter and instructions for onboarding.
Interview tips from my experience:
- Brush up on basic trade terms and current foreign trade policies.
- Prepare a short pitch about why you want to intern at DGFT.
- Stay calm—interviewers are looking for earnestness, not perfection.
For detailed updates and any changes in selection steps, keep an eye on the DGFT Internship Scheme page.
Conclusion
The DGFT paid internship is more than just another summer program. You get paid for learning, work with real government officials, and walk away with a certificate that means something to top employers. If you’re ready for real exposure, hands-on projects, and a boost to your confidence, this is your opportunity.
As someone who’s tracked internships and jobs for years, I can tell you: the inside look and mentorship at DGFT will stay with you long after the two months are over. Don’t hesitate—prepare well, apply on time, and give it your best shot. You’re more capable than you think.
Disclaimer
The advice in this guide is for informational purposes. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, you should check the official DGFT Notification for the latest details. Application outcomes and internship terms are at the sole discretion of the DGFT.
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