Work-study at business school: how to land a placement
Work-study is increasingly offered to students at management schools. Supported by the State, this format has many advantages: it allows you both to gain solid professional experience and to fund your studies.
However, securing a work-study placement requires following several steps and adopting an effective strategy. Fortunately, business schools generally have dedicated careers services to support students through the process.
Here are a few tips for finding a work-study placement at a business school.
Following a work-study programme at a business school
At business schools, work-study is often offered in the Bachelor and Master in Management programmes, generally from the 3rd or 4th year of study.
This mode of study has several advantages.
Funding your studies
One of the main strengths of work-study is financial. Tuition fees are covered by the host company, and students also receive a monthly salary throughout their programme.
Valuable professional experience
By alternating periods of classes with periods at a company, students develop practical skills and gain significant professional experience, which recruiters greatly appreciate.
On graduation, this experience makes it much easier to enter the job market.
A rhythm that balances school and company
The work-study rhythm varies from one school and programme to another.
For example, at EDC Paris Business School, work-study generally follows a rhythm of three weeks at the company and one week of classes.
The two types of work-study contract
Students can sign two types of contract:
The apprenticeship contract: for young people under 29 who wish to obtain a higher education qualification.
The professionalisation contract: available to students up to the age of 25 and also leading to a recognised qualification.
In both cases, the student has employee status while continuing their studies.
The steps to finding a work-study company
To secure a work-study placement, it is important to follow a structured approach.
Apply early for the EDC Paris Business School entrance exam
Companies often begin recruiting work-study students as early as February.
It is therefore advisable to apply quickly for the EDC Paris Business School entrance exam, so as to receive your results early and begin your search for a company under the best conditions.
Once admitted, students generally benefit from:
personalised support
workshops to prepare their search for a company
access to the school's network of partner companies
Tailor your CV to each application
An effective CV must be adapted to each work-study offer.
It is important to show clearly:
your contact details (name, telephone, professional email)
the degree you are studying for and your work-study specialisation
your academic background
your professional or association experience
your skills (languages, IT tools, etc.)
If you have little experience, you can highlight:
your involvement in associations
international experience
student or voluntary projects.
A CV should remain clear, easy to read and visually well structured, while avoiding spelling mistakes.
Build your professional network
Your professional network plays an essential role in the search for a work-study placement.
LinkedIn is a particularly effective tool for:
following companies or recruiters
getting in touch with professionals in the sector
showcasing your profile and skills
It is advisable to state clearly on your profile that you are looking for a work-study placement.
Posting content or interacting with professionals can also increase your visibility to recruiters.
Apply regularly to online offers
Many platforms allow you to find work-study offers:
general job sites
platforms specialising in work-study
business school careers portals
To maximise your chances, it is advisable to:
set up job alerts
check the platforms regularly
follow up with recruiters a few days after an application
If you are invited to an interview, take the time to research the company, its activities and its values thoroughly.
Finally, once you have been selected, remember to ask for a promise of employment so that the school can finalise the work-study contract with the company.