Students

Your degree is more than just a qualification—it's the launchpad for your career. 

Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) is the critical link between the theory you learn in the classroom and the practical skills you need to succeed in the professional world. It’s your chance to test-drive a career path, build a professional network, and develop a real-world understanding of your chosen field before you even graduate.

WIL activities can take many forms – including internships, industry projects, community placements, simulations, and virtual experiences – all designed to help you apply your learning in real-world settings, build professional skills, and explore career pathways.

Why is WIL a Career Game-Changer?

Engaging in a quality WIL experience is one of the most effective things you can do to enhance your employability. The National WIL Strategy identifies WIL as a key driver of graduate success, helping students to:

Your WIL experience is a powerhouse for skills development. It’s your chance to intentionally cultivate the professional, technical, and transferable skills that employers are looking for. Use our Skills Development Checklist when exploring potential WIL activities and programs.

Your Skills Development Checklist

Use this checklist to have a conversation with your WIL provider or supervisor about what you can learn:

☐ Communication Skills: how can I practice presenting ideas, writing professional emails, and collaborating effectively in team meetings?

☐ Problem-Solving: what real-world challenges can I get involved in that don’t have textbook answers?

☐ Teamwork & Collaboration: what opportunities will I have to work with colleagues from diverse backgrounds to achieve a common goal?

☐ Professionalism & Initiative: what are the workplace expectations? How can I best take initiative and manage my time effectively?

☐ Technical Skills: what specific tools, software, or industry practices will I get hands-on experience with?

Articulating Your Skills

Your university's careers service can help you identify and articulate these skills on your resume and in job interviews. This ensures you can showcase the full value of the learning you gained from your WIL experience.

FAQs

Hear from students who have been there. A WIL experience is more than just a line on your CV; it's a journey of growth, discovery, and connection

Equip yourself with the tools and resources needed to design, deliver, and manage high-quality WIL.  This hub serves as a starting portal for WIL development resources and guides.

Each year, WIL Australia offers two types of scholarships for student participation in WIL activities:

• Student Scholarships: these scholarships support students undertaking WIL experiences by helping to reduce financial barriers. They are designed to promote equity, access, and career development across diverse disciplines and student backgrounds. Recipients gain not only financial support but also recognition for their commitment to professional growth through WIL. Read more about the 2025 student scholarships.

• Pagoda-Partnered Equity Scholarships: in partnership with Pagoda Projects, these scholarships provide funding and access to global virtual internships for students from equity backgrounds. The program supports inclusive participation in international WIL experiences, helping students build cross-cultural skills, global networks, and career confidence—regardless of financial or geographic constraints.  Read more about the 2025 equity scholarships.

Previous Scholarship Awardees

See what other students have achieved! 

Reading about past students is a fantastic way to understand the different types of WIL experiences available and the real-world impact they can have.