Virtual Work Experience for Students in the UK

Why virtual work experience is worth your time

Virtual work experience programmes allow students to gain structured exposure to professional environments without the constraints of location, travel costs, or accommodation. Since 2020, many employers have formalised their virtual offering — providing structured tasks, mentor access, and feedback over one to two weeks via video call and online platforms. For students outside major cities, or those balancing part-time work, caring responsibilities, or disability-related barriers, virtual programmes offer a meaningful and legitimate route into professional experience. Employers increasingly recognise virtual programmes as equivalent to in-person placements when they are structured and delivered by the employer directly. Some virtual programmes are entirely self-paced (such as Forage job simulations), while others involve real-time interaction with employer staff. Both types are worth pursuing, though employer-run interactive programmes typically carry more weight on a CV.

Frequently asked questions