Work-study guide
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Master in Management - Specialization in Apprenticeship for 4th and 5th Year
M.SC in Audit and Management Control
M.SC in Business Project Management
M.SC in Data Science & Business Analysis
M.SC in Innovation & Entrepreneurship
M.SC in International Business
M.SC in Business Development & Commercial Management
What is a work-study program?
In simple terms, it means alternating between time in the classroom and time working in a company. The result? You earn a recognized degree while gaining real-world experience.
Open to students right after high school, work-study programs are a powerful springboard into the job market. They allow you to discover the professional world from the inside, apply your coursework directly on the job, develop practical skills, and even start building your professional network. And of course — you get paid while studying.
Whether you're aiming for a career in marketing, digital, management, finance, or audit, a work-study program offers a direct path to employment and skill development. It’s a smart, pragmatic choice — and increasingly valued by recruiters.
The Benefits of a Work-Study Program in Business School
Real-world professional experience
With a work-study program, you join a company while still studying.
The result: you learn your future job on the ground, develop professional reflexes, and get a head start over other students. By the time you graduate, you’ll already have 1 to 3 years of experience to highlight on your resume.
A salary while you study
Yes — you get paid. Your salary depends on your age and level of study, but in every case, it’s a real financial boost that helps you gain independence.
100% tuition coverage
In a work-study contract, your tuition fees are fully covered by your host company. No out-of-pocket expenses. You get trained for free and earn money at the same time.
Valuable, job-ready skills
At work, you gain hands-on skills recruiters look for: project management, digital tools, teamwork, autonomy...
👉 Read more: Soft skills you’ll develop during a work-study program
A real springboard to employment
Work-study programs greatly boost your employability. Many companies offer full-time contracts (CDIs) at the end of the program. And even if they don’t, your profile stands out: you’re already trained, already operational.
Who Can Enroll in a Work-Study Program?
High school seniors
Thinking about a post-secondary business school and wondering if work-study is right for you? Good news: it’s possible from the very first year! It’s a great way to enter the professional world early and explore careers in marketing, digital, business, or management.
Post-secondary students or those changing academic paths
Whether you're in a BTS, a bachelor’s degree, a licence, or even a master’s program, work-study can be integrated at any point in your journey. It’s a great way to boost your studies, gain maturity, and take a real step toward a professional career.
Graduates pursuing further education
Already earned a first degree and aiming for a master’s level (bac+5)? Work-study offers a strategic way to strengthen your profile with a specialization and solid on-the-job experience — a true asset in the job market.
Adults in career transition
Looking to change paths? Work-study programs allow you to learn a new profession while staying connected to the working world. It’s a fast, practical, and hands-on way to retrain without starting from scratch.
How Does a Work-Study Program Work in Business School?
A Tripartite System: School / Company / Student
The system is based on a contractual relationship between three parties:
- The student attends theoretical classes at school while working at the company.
- The school provides the training, validates the skills acquired, and ensures academic support and mentoring for the student.
- The company employs the student, integrates them into a team, assigns real tasks, and monitors their progress within the organization.
This is formalized through a work-study contract, usually:
- An apprenticeship contract for young people aged 16 to 29.
- A professionalization contract available to a broader audience (students, job seekers, etc.).
- A Schedule Tailored to the Training
The work-study schedule varies depending on the school and level of study. In business schools, the most common models are:
- 3 days in the company / 2 days in class
- 1 week in the company / 1 week at school
- 3 weeks in the company / 1 week of classes
- Or blocks of consecutive weeks (e.g., 2 months / 1 month).
This schedule is defined by the school and communicated to both the student and the company at the beginning of the academic year.
Types of Contracts: Apprenticeship or Professionalization?
Apprenticeship Contract
The apprenticeship contract is primarily aimed at young people and allows them to follow a work-study program leading to a qualification (CAP, BTS, bachelor’s, master’s, etc.). It is governed by the Labor Code and the Education Code.
Objective: Obtain a professional qualification or diploma listed in the RNCP (National Directory of Professional Certifications).
Target Audience: Young people aged 16 to 29.
There are exceptions (no age limit for individuals with disabilities or those wanting to start or take over a business requiring the targeted qualification).
Professionalization Contract
The professionalization contract is more flexible and can be applied to a broader audience. It focuses on acquiring professional skills through a recognized qualification or title.
Objective: Promote professional integration or re-integration with a recognized certification or title.
Target Audience:
Young people aged 16 to 25
Job seekers aged 26 and over
Recipients of RSA, ASS, AAH, or those on subsidized contracts.
How to Find an Apprenticeship?
Prepare Your Application
Before you start applying, make sure you have solid and personalized documents:
CV
Opt for a clear and concise CV with a neat layout.Highlight your skills, internships, student projects, volunteer work, and professional experiences.Tailor the CV for each application (especially the introduction and key skills).
Cover Letter
The letter should be brief, targeted, and personalized to the company.Explain why you are choosing an apprenticeship and why you selected this company.Avoid generic phrases and be sure to highlight your professional goals.
Practical Tools
Free Online CV Generator – CanvaExamples of Apprenticeship Cover Letters – Studyrama
Where to Search for an Apprenticeship?
Specialized Platforms
Welcome to the JungleJobteaser
L'Étudiant
Offers Pôle Emploi –
1jeune1solution
Personal Networks and Schools
Through your school: company forums, partnerships, internal platform.
Through your network: friends, family, alumni, professors, LinkedIn...
Social Media
LinkedIn is essential: posted job openings, unsolicited applications, private messages to recruiters or alumni.
Follow companies that interest you, comment on their content, and show your interest!
Practical Tools
Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile – CIDJCreate a Job Alert on Indeed
Prepare for the Interview
Once your CV catches attention, it’s time for the interview. The goal? Show that you are motivated, reliable, and ready to learn.
Key Tips
Research the company and its values.Be ready to explain your background, projects, and why you want this apprenticeship.Prepare answers for common questions ("Why an apprenticeship?", "Your strengths/weaknesses?") and ask questions yourself.
Attitude to Adopt
Be punctual, polite, professional… but also enthusiastic and curious.Even if you lack experience, emphasize your ability to learn, adapt, and invest yourself in the role.
Tips for Succeeding in Your Apprenticeship
Organization: The Key to Success
Good organization is essential for managing your apprenticeship between school and work effectively.
📋 Plan Your Weeks
Anticipate your time at the company and at school: Write down your working hours and classes to avoid scheduling conflicts.Set Priorities: Prioritize your tasks at work, school projects, and revision time.Manage Your Time: Use a digital or paper agenda to track deadlines and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Develop Organizational Tools
Use task management apps like Trello, Google Calendar, or Todoist to track your tasks and priorities.
Professionalism: A Winning Attitude
An apprenticeship is a great opportunity for professional development. Show your motivation and involvement at all times.
🎯 Adopt a Proactive Attitude
Show initiative: Don’t wait for tasks to be assigned to you—suggest solutions or take on additional responsibilities when possible.
Be Punctual: Punctuality is essential to build trust with your colleagues and supervisors.
Respect Company Rules: Follow the working hours, dress code, and company values.
🤝 Build Good Professional Relationships
Maintain good relationships with your colleagues, mentor, and managers. Be open to constructive criticism and demonstrate your desire to improve.
Learning in the Company: Maximize This Experience
An apprenticeship is primarily a practical learning experience. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn everything you can't acquire in class alone.
💡 Be Curious and Ask to Learn
Don’t limit yourself to your assigned tasks: If you’ve finished your work, offer to help with another project. It’s a great chance to explore other areas of the company.Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification; that’s how you’ll learn the most.Seek to Understand the Stakes: Get familiar with the company’s strategic goals to better understand your tasks.
Track Your Progress
Take regular notes on what you’re learning, the skills you’ve gained, and the feedback you receive. This will help you assess your progress at the end of your apprenticeship.
Networking: Build Professional Connections
An apprenticeship is an excellent way to develop your professional network.
🌍 Expand Your Network:
Attend company events (meetings, conferences, team lunches) to get to know your colleagues and other people within the company.
Use LinkedIn to connect with your mentors, colleagues, and managers. The goal is to maintain relationships even after your apprenticeship ends.
🔑 Ask for Recommendations:
At the end of your apprenticeship, ask your supervisors or colleagues if they would be willing to write a recommendation letter or leave a review for you on LinkedIn. This will strengthen your profile for future opportunities.
The Next Step: Prepare for Life After the Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship is not just a stage in your studies, it can also pave the way for a permanent job. Here are some tips to prepare for what comes next.
🎯 Show Your Value to the Company
If you’ve performed well and the company has needs, you may be approached for a full-time position at the end of your apprenticeship.Let them know you’re interested in a job offer, but don’t be too pushy.
📝 Update Your CV and LinkedIn Profile
Add the new skills and experiences you’ve gained during your apprenticeship to your CV and LinkedIn profile to attract recruiters.
🌟 Keep Learning
Never stop learning. Take advantage of resources offered by your company, as well as online courses or certifications to boost your employability.
4 Key Points to Succeed in Your Apprenticeship
Get Organized: Prioritize your tasks and manage your time effectively.
Be Professional: Show punctuality, motivation, and respect towards your company.
Learn in the Company: Ask to learn more about other aspects of the job and track your progress.
Develop Your Network: Take advantage of events and meetings to build lasting connections.Prepare for What's Next: Stay proactive, demonstrate your value, and get ready to continue either within the company or elsewhere.
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