Virtual Work Experience Open Now

Virtual work experience: what counts and how to make the most of it

Virtual work experience programmes — also called online work experience, remote placements, or digital insight programmes — allow you to gain structured professional experience from home. They are run by employers directly and by platforms like Forage, which delivers virtual programmes on behalf of major organisations including Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Clifford Chance, BCG, and many others. Virtual programmes vary in depth: some are self-paced online modules with simulated exercises; others involve live sessions with employees, collaborative tasks, and assessed components. When referencing virtual work experience in applications, be specific about what you actually did. Phrases like "I completed Goldman Sachs' investment banking virtual experience on Forage, where I built a discounted cash flow model and presented an investment recommendation" are far stronger than simply listing the programme name. Virtual work experience does not carry the same weight as in-person placements — employers know the difference — but it is genuinely useful for demonstrating sector knowledge, initiative, and application ahead of a more formal placement. It is also highly accessible: most programmes are free, can be completed in a few hours, and are available to anyone with internet access. For students with limited access to in-person placements due to geography, financial constraints, or caring responsibilities, virtual programmes are a practical and legitimate way to build relevant experience.

Frequently asked questions