Technology · STEP Internship
Google STEP Internship
Quick answer
Google STEP (Student Training in Engineering Program) is Google's internship for first and second-year students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds in tech. Selection involves an application with CV/transcript and two coding interviews at an accessible-but-real bar. STEP interns often return as full software engineering interns, then convert to full-time.
About the Google STEP Internship
STEP pairs early students with real projects and heavy mentorship. The coding bar accounts for your stage — fundamentals and problem-solving over encyclopaedic algorithms — but it's a genuine coding interview.
Eligibility & entry requirements
The application & selection process
| Stage | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Online application | CV, transcript and short essays. |
| Coding interviews | Two interviews on data structures and problem-solving, calibrated for your stage. |
| Project matching | Matched to a team and project. |
| Internship → return offer | 12 weeks; strong interns return as SWE interns, then convert. |
Likely Google interview questions
- 1Solve this array/string problem and explain your approach.
- 2Walk me through a project you've built.
- 3How would you debug this code?
- 4Why Google, and why STEP?
- 5Tell me about learning a new technology.
How to get the internship (and convert it)
- Master one language's fundamentals deeply.
- Practise easy/medium problems out loud.
- Have one project you can discuss in depth.
- Apply early — windows are short.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Grinding hard problems instead of nailing fundamentals.
- Solving silently.
- No personal projects to discuss.
- Missing the application window.
Application deadlines
Applications typically open in autumn/winter with short fixed windows — check early in the academic year.
Pay & benefits
Google interns are paid well above typical internship rates — competitive monthly salaries plus relocation support.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply for Google STEP?
First and second-year undergraduates — it's designed as an early on-ramp, with a coding bar calibrated to your stage.
Does STEP lead to a Google job?
Often — STEP interns frequently return as software engineering interns and later convert to full-time offers.
Preparing for the Google STEP Internship?
Upload your CV and paste the job description. CareerFast instantly builds your interview readiness score, a company briefing, predicted questions, tailored STAR answers, a mock interview and a downloadable PDF — free to start, no card needed.
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