Preference is also given to applicants who have taken a least one course in conversational Spanish. American university students whose native language is Spanish are encouraged to apply, and must supply evidence of being able to write effectively in Spanish if they have not taken any Spanish coursework in college. Students who have a detailed knowledge or particular interest in a specific field should note this in a cover letter attached to the application. It is intended that students work three days a week in their internships. However, Spanish working hours, including very long breaks at midday in many organizations, mean that it is sometimes difficult to put in three full days per week and students need to be flexible.
Students also take two academic courses in addition to their internships.
Placements also exist in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Politics interns must be flexible and able to work without a great deal of detailed instruction or direct supervision. Past interns have worked on projects ranging from race relations to public health in Angola to European Union affairs. Places are also available for interns in refugee agencies. Some background in political science is helpful, but interns do not need to be Political Science majors.