Are you interested in learning how we apply economics to regulate the UK communications sectors?

As the UK’s communications regulator, we’re at the forefront of innovation, working on projects that shape the future of how we stay connected. From phones and broadband to TV, radio, and even the postal service, we’re responsible for keeping the UK connected. But that’s just the beginning. We’re also tackling one of the biggest challenges of our time—making the online world a safer, more trusted place, and we need passionate, talented people from all walks of life to help us achieve this.

You’ll be part of one of the UK’s largest and most dynamic teams of competition and regulatory economists, data analysts, and finance professionals. Together, we work on some of the most exciting sectors in the UK—whether it’s the BBC, TV, broadband, mobile, online services, or the wireless airwaves powering the latest tech devices.

This isn’t just an internship—it’s your chance to make a real impact. As an economist intern at Ofcom, you’ll dive into live projects, contributing vital economic analysis that influences real-world decisions. You’ll collaborate with economists, lawyers, technologists, and policy experts, gaining invaluable cross-functional experience.

At Ofcom, your work will never be just theoretical. You’ll be working on live projects with immediate impact, gaining exposure to leaders and subject matter experts. Our internship is designed to give you hands-on experience and deepen your understanding of competition and regulatory economics.

Plus, past successful interns have been offered places on Ofcom’s prestigious Economist Graduate Scheme or fast-tracked to the assessment centres. This could be the first step in a rewarding career with one of the UK’s leading regulators.

You’ll even have the chance to express your preferences for project areas before you start, allowing us to align your interests with our business needs, so you get the most out of your time with us.

From day one, you’ll have a hand in groundbreaking projects. Past interns have worked on:

  • Market reviews that shape the core of UK internet infrastructure.
  • Designing the UK’s 4G and 5G spectrum auctions, enabling the future of mobile connectivity.
  • Competition assessments in the broadcasting sector, ensuring fair practices and innovation.

If you’re interested in data analysis, you’ll also have the opportunity to be exposed to advanced techniques like econometrics and machine learning to drive evidence-based decisions. You won’t just be an intern- you’ll be part of our community. You’ll have access to seminars and trainings hosted by our Economics Group, allowing you to expand your knowledge and connect with colleagues at every level, from recent grads to directors sharing their career journeys.

 

How the scheme works

Successful applicants will be aligned to one of our London, Manchester or Edinburgh offices for eight weeks between 1 July – 22 August 2025. We ask that candidates identify their office preference, in addition to whether they prefer to work entirely remotely (remote working is not guaranteed but will be considered on an individual basis).

All interns will be paid a salary equivalent to the level of the London Living Wage.

Necessary requirements

At a minimum, applicants should be in their penultimate year of undergraduate studies and at least 50% of the course content should be sat in economics. We also welcome applications from students taking part in postgraduate studies, or equivalent.

Please only apply if you have right to work in the UK during the internship period (including if you are currently on a visa that allows you to work).

The application process

When you apply you will be asked to submit your CV and then you will be asked to complete a blended assessment. On successful review of your online application, you will be invited to take part in an interview with Economics Group colleagues over video platform.

Diversity & Inclusion at Ofcom

Ofcom has a clear mission: to make communications work for everyone.  To be able to deliver on this, we want our organisation to reflect the diversity of background, experience, upbringing and thought that exists across the UK.  We aim to recruit from the widest pool of candidates possible – no matter your gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or social background.

 Where positions are listed as full-time, we remain open to reduced hours, part-time arrangements, job shares, and other flexible working options. From day one, we champion flexible work arrangements to accommodate individual needs.

 We also warmly welcome applicants who are returning to the workforce after a break – for whatever reason. If you have taken time away and are ready to rejoin, we look forward to reviewing your application.

 Our recruitment processes prioritise accessibility and inclusivity. If you need information in an alternative format or have specific preferences, please contact our recruitment team at ofcomcareers@ambertrack.co.uk.

 As a Disability Confident employer, we offer an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for our advertised roles. When you apply, you can let us know if you would like your application to be considered under this scheme (sometimes known as ‘guaranteed interview scheme’). Find out more about the scheme here.