Most students accept the first offer without negotiating. Here's how to professionally ask for more—without jeopardizing your opportunity.
The idea of negotiating your internship stipend can be intimidating. Many students worry about seeming greedy or losing the offer entirely. But with the right approach, you can professionally advocate for yourself—and often succeed.
This guide will walk you through the exact process, with scripts and templates you can use.
Short answer: Yes, in many cases.
Knowledge is power. Before negotiating, understand what's normal for your role and location.
| Industry/Role | Average Stipend | High End |
|---|---|---|
| Software Development | ₹15,000 - ₹40,000/month | ₹80,000+ |
| Data Science/ML | ₹20,000 - ₹50,000/month | ₹1,00,000+ |
| Marketing | ₹8,000 - ₹20,000/month | ₹35,000+ |
| Finance | ₹15,000 - ₹35,000/month | ₹60,000+ |
| Content/Writing | ₹5,000 - ₹15,000/month | ₹25,000+ |
| Design (UI/UX) | ₹12,000 - ₹30,000/month | ₹50,000+ |
✅ Best Time to Negotiate
After you have a written offer, but before you've accepted it. This is when you have maximum leverage.
⚠️ Okay to Negotiate
During final interview stages when they ask about salary expectations.
❌ Too Late
After you've already accepted the offer in writing. The deal is done.
Golden rule: Never negotiate before you have an offer. Don't bring up money until they've decided they want you.
Negotiation isn't about what you want—it's about demonstrating your value. Here's how to build leverage:
"Hi [Name], thank you so much for the offer! I'm really excited about the opportunity to work with [Company] on [specific project/team].
I did want to discuss the stipend. Based on my research of similar roles and my experience with [specific skill/project], I was hoping we could discuss a stipend closer to ₹[X].
Is there any flexibility on the compensation?"
Accept graciously. The goal was to try, not to win at all costs:
"I completely understand. I appreciate you considering it. I'm still very excited about this opportunity and would love to accept the offer as-is."
Subject: Re: Internship Offer - [Your Name]
Dear [Recruiter Name],
Thank you so much for the internship offer for the [Role] position. I'm genuinely excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company] and work on [specific area].
Before I formally accept, I wanted to discuss the stipend. Based on my research of similar roles and my relevant experience in [skill/project], I was hoping we could explore a stipend of ₹[Y] per month.
I understand there may be constraints, and I'm certainly open to discussing this further. Please let me know if there's any flexibility.
Looking forward to your response.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Subject: Re: Internship Offer Discussion
Dear [Recruiter Name],
Thank you for extending the offer for the [Role] internship. [Company] is my first choice because of [genuine reason - team, product, culture].
I want to be transparent: I've also received another offer with a stipend of ₹[X]. While compensation isn't my primary factor, I wanted to check if there's any possibility of matching or getting closer to that figure.
I'm happy to discuss this further or provide any additional information.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
If they can't budge on stipend, consider negotiating other valuable benefits:
🏠 Work Flexibility
📚 Learning & Development
💼 Experience
🚗 Practical Benefits
❌ Negotiating Too Early
Wait until you have an offer in hand. Bringing up money before they've decided they want you weakens your position.
❌ Being Aggressive or Demanding
Negotiation is collaborative. Aggressive tactics can cost you the offer entirely.
❌ Not Having a Number Ready
Know exactly what you want to ask for. Vague requests like "more" aren't effective.
❌ Lying About Competing Offers
If caught, you'll lose the offer and damage your reputation. Only mention real offers.
❌ Burning Bridges If They Say No
Accept graciously. The experience matters too, and you might convert to full-time.
The worst they can say is no—and most employers respect candidates who professionally advocate for themselves. Negotiation is a valuable career skill that will serve you throughout your professional life.
Even if you don't succeed this time, you've practiced asserting your value. That's a win in itself.
Know your worth. Ask for it professionally. Accept the outcome gracefully. 💰
Written by Sproutern Career Team
Our team has coached thousands of students through salary negotiations, helping them secure better offers across industries.
Last updated: October 1, 2025
