Facebook is more than just a social media platform — it has transformed the way we connect, made its founder a billionaire, and even inspired a Hollywood film about its origins. Given its impact and influence, it’s no surprise that Facebook is also considered an exceptional place to work.
Recognized for its outstanding employee benefits, the company offers an opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology under one of the most innovative teams in the world. With such prestige, however, comes intense competition. Some candidates have gone through as many as 17 rounds of interviews before landing a job, and in 2014 alone, Facebook received over 250,000 applications for just 330 available positions.
That being said, securing an internship is one of the best ways to get your foot in the door. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process and improve your chances of landing an internship at Facebook.
Step 1: Identify the Right Role
The first step is to find an internship that aligns with your skills and interests. Facebook lists all its available internships on its official careers page. Additionally, participating in university networking events or coding competitions can help you gain visibility among Facebook recruiters.
Internship opportunities at Facebook fall into two main categories:
- Technical Internships (e.g., Engineering, Technology, and Design)
- Non-Technical Internships (e.g., Business and Program Management)
Available Technical Internships
Facebook offers various 12-week technical internships for students, typically at the postgraduate level. Some roles require programming knowledge, research experience, or prior work in relevant fields. Current opportunities include:
- AI Research
- Data Science
- Software Engineering
- Machine Learning
- Infrastructure
- UX Research
- Virtual Reality (Oculus)
- Security
Available Non-Technical Internships
For those pursuing a business-related degree, Facebook provides internships in areas such as:
- Program Management
- Business Strategy
- Marketing and Sales
- Human Resources
Carefully review the qualifications for your desired position before submitting your application.
Step 2: Build a Strong Résumé
Your résumé is your first opportunity to make an impression, so it must stand out. Harvard graduate Jessica Pointing, who secured internship offers from Facebook, Google, and Apple, emphasizes the importance of showcasing the impact you’ve made in previous roles.
To strengthen your résumé:
- Highlight measurable achievements rather than listing job duties.
- Avoid exaggerations—be prepared to discuss everything you include.
- Tailor your résumé to the specific internship role.
For instance, emphasizing analytical skills is crucial for a data science role, while project management experience would be more relevant for a business internship.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Once you’ve identified the right role and refined your résumé, it’s time to apply. The process is relatively simple through Facebook’s careers website, where you’ll be asked to provide:
- Personal details
- Work experience
- Areas of expertise
- Education history
- Additional links (e.g., LinkedIn profile or online portfolio)
If your application stands out, you may be invited for an online coding test (for technical roles) or an interview.
Step 4: Prepare for the Interview
Facebook’s interview process typically includes two rounds:
Screening Interview
This is a short interview conducted via Skype or at a university campus. The recruiter will ask about your career goals, motivation, and technical skills. If applying for a technical role, be ready for coding challenges—previous interview questions are available online, so practice is essential.
Onsite Interview
If you pass the initial screening, you’ll be invited to Facebook’s office for a full-day interview session. This may include:
- Technical Challenges – Hands-on problem-solving exercises
- Design Interview – A whiteboard discussion on system or product design
- Behavioral Interview – Questions about past experiences and teamwork
Pro Tip: Prepare insightful questions for your interviewer to demonstrate enthusiasm and industry knowledge.
Step 5: Receive an Offer
If you successfully clear all interview rounds, you’ll receive a job offer along with details about your assigned project. According to past interns, Facebook does an excellent job matching interns with projects that fit their skills and background.
For those looking to transition from an internship to a full-time role, former intern Utkarsh Sharma advises that success goes beyond coding skills. Collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability are just as crucial in making a lasting impression.
Although landing an internship at Facebook is highly competitive, don’t be discouraged. Focus on showcasing your real-world impact, technical expertise, and passion for innovation.
To improve your chances:
- Choose an internship that matches your skill set and tailor your résumé accordingly.
- Follow a formal structure when writing your application letter, ensuring clarity and professionalism.
- Research common Facebook interview questions and practice problem-solving to boost your confidence.
By taking these steps, you can significantly increase your chances of securing an internship at one of the most influential tech companies in the world.
