How to land your first A1 internship with no prior experience?

Landing your first internship without experience might feel like a dead end, but it’s actually more common than you think. According to a 2023 NACE report, over 60% of employers consider applicants with no formal work background, as long as they show potential and eagerness to learn. 

Instead of focusing on the lack of internships, highlight what you’ve done — like academic projects, online courses, certifications, volunteering, or even hobbies that demonstrate relevant skills. Your resume should tell the story of someone who may not have experience yet, but has curiosity, drive, and the willingness to grow. 

Customize your application to each role, and don’t underestimate the impact of a short, genuine cover letter. Many startups, nonprofits, and early-stage companies are open to training beginners if you show genuine interest and effort. 

Are unpaid or virtual internships a good starting point? 

Yes — especially when you're just starting out and need experience on your resume. While they may not offer a paycheck, unpaid or virtual internships often provide something just as valuable: exposure, learning, and networking. 

In a competitive job market, many freshers use these roles to build portfolios, gain confidence, and explore industries before committing full-time. Remote internships also remove location barriers, opening up access to companies you wouldn’t otherwise reach. 

Just make sure the internship offers real work and learning — not just busy tasks. When chosen wisely, even an unpaid virtual internship can be the steppingstone to future paid roles. 

Where can I find internships that accept freshers or students? 

You don’t need a stacked resume to get started — just the right platform and approach. 

Startups, NGOs, and small businesses are also more open to training freshers, so don’t hesitate to reach out directly via LinkedIn or email. 

Also, keep an eye on your college placement cell, alumni networks, and online communities — many hidden gems pop up there. Some platforms like HR Scoop even curate beginner-friendly roles and prep resources to help you get ready. 

Do recruiters consider academic achievements for internships? 

Yes — especially when you're applying with little to no work experience. 

For many recruiters, your academic record is the first indicator of your discipline, commitment, and ability to learn. Good grades, relevant coursework, project work, or academic awards can help you stand out — particularly for research-based, technical, or structured internship programs. 

That said, it’s not just about marks. Recruiters also look for curiosity, initiative, and soft skills. So while strong academics help, combining them with a well-written resume and genuine interest in the role will give you a much stronger edge. 

Hence,  

You can land your first internship without experience by showcasing your skills through academic projects, certifications, and volunteering. Unpaid or virtual internships are great starting points for learning and exposure. Platforms like HR Scoop, LinkedIn, and college networks often list beginner-friendly roles. Good academics help, but curiosity and initiative matter more. 

TheHRScoop.com is your go-to platform for career guidance, job updates, resume tips, and expert insights on navigating today’s job market. Whether you’re a fresher or a professional, we help you land the right opportunity with confidence.