Legal Internship Opportunity at SEBI: A Gateway to Securities Law Expertise

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) offers a prestigious internship program in its Legal Department, providing students with an unparalleled opportunity to work alongside experts, enhance their legal acumen, and contribute to regulatory practices. This blog post outlines the details of the internship program, eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits.

About the Internship

The SEBI Legal Department internship is designed for law students passionate about securities law and corporate governance. Interns will engage in legal research, assist in litigation matters, and gain insights into regulatory practices that shape India's financial markets.

Objective

The internship aims to:

• Familiarize students with securities laws and their applications.
• Provide hands-on experience in legal research and case analysis.
• Enhance understanding of investor protection measures and market regulations.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this internship program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Who Can Apply?

1. Students pursuing:
   • A 5-year integrated LLB program (in their 4th or final year).
   • A 3-year LLB program (in their 2nd or final year).
   • An LL.M program.
2. Applicants must be enrolled in a law school or university recognized by the Bar Council of India.
3. Academic Requirements:
   • Minimum 60% aggregate marks or equivalent CGPA in previous semester results.
4. Age Limit:
   • Applicants must be below 28 years of age.

Internship Terms

Duration

• The internship lasts for a minimum of four weeks, starting on the first working day of the month.

Location

• Internships are offered exclusively at SEBI’s offices in Mumbai.

Mode

• It is a full-time internship requiring interns to physically report to SEBI’s designated office during working hours (9:30 AM to 6:00 PM).

Application Process

Applications must be submitted online through SEBI's official portal. The application window opens from the 1st to the 7th of every month, for internships commencing in the following month.

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit SEBI’s official website and access the online application portal.
2. Submit a duly filled cover letter issued by your law school/university on its official letterhead.
3. Ensure that the cover letter specifies your academic performance (aggregate percentage/CGPA).
4. Upload all required documents, including proof of enrolment and academic records.

Selection Process:

• Applications are assessed based on merit, considering academic performance, prior exposure to corporate laws, participation in moot courts, paper publications, and other relevant achievements.
• Shortlisted candidates will be notified via email and must confirm their acceptance within two days.

Roles and Responsibilities

During the internship, interns will:

1. Conduct legal research on securities laws and related topics.
2. Assist in preparing briefs, write-ups on legal issues, and summaries of ongoing cases.
3. Gain exposure to litigation processes before High Courts, Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT), and Special Courts.
4. Publish at least one research article on topics such as investor protection measures or developments in securities laws.

Code of Conduct

Interns are expected to:

• Maintain professionalism and confidentiality throughout their tenure.
• Adhere to office discipline, including formal dress codes.
• Report punctually during working hours without unauthorized absences.

Benefits of Interning at SEBI

1. Professional Exposure: Work closely with seasoned professionals in securities law.
2. Skill Development: Enhance legal research skills and understanding of regulatory frameworks.
3. Networking Opportunities: Interact with experts and peers in corporate law.
4. Certification: Receive a certificate upon successful completion of the internship.
5. Stipend: Interns may receive a stipend of ₹10,000 based on performance and compliance with guidelines.

Important Notes

• Interns must arrange their own accommodation and transport during the internship period.
• Any work submitted during the internship becomes SEBI’s property and cannot be published without prior approval.
• Non-compliance with guidelines may lead to termination without certification or stipend.

Official Notification https://www.sebi.gov.in/sebi_data/GUIDELINES%20FOR%20INTERNSHIP%20IN%20THE%20LEGAL%20DEPARTMENT%20AT%20SEBI.pdf

Application Form https://www.sebi.gov.in/sebiweb/other/OtherAction.do?doLegalIntership2022=yes