PM Internship Scheme 2026: Major Update to the Prime Minister's Internship Scheme—Eligibility Criteria Expanded

PM Internship Scheme 2026: The Government of India has launched the Prime Minister's Internship Scheme. The objective of this scheme is to provide young people with the opportunity to gain work experience at major companies.

PM Internship Scheme 2026: In today's world, every student desires to gain real-world work experience in corporate settings alongside their academic studies, thereby making it easier to secure employment. To address this specific need, the Government of India has introduced the Prime Minister's Internship Scheme. The scheme aims to offer young individuals the chance to learn on the job at large companies, enabling them to become industry-ready even before completing their academic degrees. The government has now implemented a significant change to this scheme. Under this modification, the eligibility criteria have been simplified and broadened to include a larger pool of students. Previously, only a limited number of students could apply; however, now a greater number of young people will be able to benefit from this initiative. Let us, therefore, explore who is eligible to apply for the Prime Minister's Internship Scheme.

Previously, only students who had already completed their academic studies were eligible to apply for this scheme. However, under the new regulations, students currently in the final year of their undergraduate or postgraduate programs are also eligible to apply. This allows students to acquire valuable work experience even before the completion of their degree programs.

Certain conditions have been stipulated for participation in this scheme. Applicants must be between 18 and 25 years of age. The student must either be currently pursuing their studies (specifically in the final year) or have already completed them. The applicant must not be currently employed in any job. Furthermore, the applicant's family's annual income must not exceed ₹8 lakh, and neither of their parents should be employed in the government sector.

Additionally, students wishing to undertake an internship under this scheme are required to obtain a 'No Objection Certificate' (NOC) from their respective college or institution. This certificate serves as an official clearance from the college, granting the student permission to pursue the internship and confirming that doing so will not adversely affect their academic studies. The NOC must bear the signature of the Head of Department (HOD), the Principal, or the Training and Placement Officer.

Under this scheme, students will receive monetary remuneration in addition to gaining practical work experience. With a monthly stipend of approximately ₹9,000 and a one-time lump sum of ₹6,000 provided at the time of joining, some companies may also offer additional benefits. This initiative will provide students with both financial assistance and practical experience.

Under this scheme, the government has partnered with over 300 major companies. Students will have the opportunity to work across various sectors—such as IT and Technology, Banking, Management, Manufacturing, Marketing, and other fields—thereby gaining insight into the real corporate world.

Applications for this scheme can be submitted exclusively through the official government portal. The official website for the program is www.pminternship.mca.gov.in. The primary objectives of this scheme are to provide students with work experience alongside their studies, enhance their employability, bridge the gap between academia and industry, and empower the youth to become self-reliant.