Santander Funded Employability/Internship Programme 2025–26 – Employers’ Funding Applications Now Open

We are pleased to announce that employers’ funding applications are now open for Queen Margaret University’s Santander Funded Employability/Internship Programme for 2025–26.

This year, the process and timeline have been streamlined to make it easier for both employers and students to participate. Some internships are aligned with students’ course placements. Small charities and SMEs based in the UK are eligible to apply for funding.

Employer testimonial

“Running internships one day or half a day a week has worked really well. The slower pace helps students build skills over time, absorb the business environment, and return with questions, which deepens their learning.

It also gives them exposure to real market dynamics, time to observe, and the chance to see projects through from start to finish — something often missing in short, intensive placements.

The flexibility suits students juggling study, work, or other commitments, and we’ve found they are more energised and bring in fresh perspectives when not stretched too thin. On the flip side, this does require more ongoing time and supervision from the business, and it’s less suited to fast-paced projects where concentrated focus over a few days is essential.” - Nahla @ The Insect Cafe

Funding offer

  • £1,000 per intern to cover approx. 80 hours of work
  • No need to match fund

Key dates

  • Employer funding applications close: 5pm, Monday 14 September 2025
  • Student applications open: 20 October 2025
  • Interviews: November 2025 – January 2026
  • Internships: January – mid September 2026 (part- or full-time, by agreement)

Current partners include The Scottish International Development Alliance, Chest Heart Stroke Scotland, Muckle Media, Shaper Caper, Business Fives, Platform-Online, Strawberry Lemonade, Tempo Tea Bar, Act-Scotland, Play Pie Pint, First Psychology, Think Through Nutrition and Theiya Arts.

We welcome referrals from students and staff.
For more information, please contact Juan Garcia at careers@qmu.ac.uk.