Most interns accept the first stipend offered without a word. Those who negotiate — politely and professionally — often walk away with 20–40% more. Negotiating a stipend is not rude or greedy; it's a normal, expected part of professional life. Here's how to do it the right way.
Is It Really OK to Negotiate as a Fresher?
Yes. Employers expect a brief conversation about compensation. As long as you're respectful and reasonable, negotiating signals confidence and professionalism — qualities companies want. The worst realistic outcome is "Sorry, the stipend is fixed," and you simply say "Understood, I'm still excited to join." You lose nothing.
Step 1: Know Your Market Rate
Before you negotiate, find out what's normal for your role, city and skill level.
- •Software/tech internships: typically higher, often ₹15,000–₹50,000/month at funded startups and large firms
- •Marketing, content, design: commonly ₹8,000–₹25,000/month
- •Early-stage startups may offer less cash but more learning and equity exposure
Browse live roles on MyInternships.in to see real stipend ranges for your category before you talk numbers. Create a free profile to compare verified openings.
Step 2: Time It Right
Never negotiate before you have an offer. Leverage only exists once they've decided they want you. The right moment is after the offer and before you accept.
Step 3: Use a Simple, Professional Script
Here's a script that works:
"Thank you so much for the offer — I'm genuinely excited about the role and the team. Based on my skills in [X and Y] and the projects I've built, I was hoping we could discuss a stipend closer to ₹[your number]. Is there any flexibility?"
Notice the structure: gratitude → enthusiasm → justification → specific ask → open question.
Step 4: Justify With Value, Not Need
Never say "I need more because rent is expensive." Say "I can contribute X because I've already built Y." Anchor on the value you bring:
- •Relevant projects or prior internships
- •Specific tools/skills the role needs
- •Any measurable results ("grew a page to 5k followers", "shipped 3 features")
Step 5: If Cash Is Fixed, Negotiate the Rest
If the stipend truly can't move, negotiate other things:
- •A pre-placement offer (PPO) conversation at the end
- •A certificate and letter of recommendation
- •Flexible hours around exams
- •A clear learning plan or mentor
What Not to Do
- •Don't issue ultimatums ("Match this or I walk")
- •Don't lie about competing offers
- •Don't negotiate over and over — one respectful round is enough
- •Don't go silent if they say no — stay warm and professional
The Bottom Line
A two-minute conversation can be worth thousands of rupees over an internship — and it builds a skill you'll use your whole career. Get the offer first. Sign up free on MyInternships.in, apply to verified internships, and when the offer lands, use this script with confidence.