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About the company
BASF is an international chemical company headquartered in Ludwigshafen. Its business is organized into six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions. The group operates six integrated Verbund sites worldwide, the largest of which is in Ludwigshafen.
Program details
Key facts
Program length
18–24 months
Number of rotations
Individual
Departments
All departments
International assignment
Optional
Working hours / week
37,5h
Gross salary per year
Not public
Program description
START IN at BASF
The START IN graduate program prepares graduates for a later specialist or leadership role within the BASF Group, with rotations across several functions. The stations include demanding tasks in the respective department, cross-functional project work and different locations within the group.
Application requirements
Who applies successfully?
Degree
Master's
Field of study
Any discipline relevant to the designated department
Work experience
At least 3 months of relevant practical experience (e.g. internships or working student jobs)
International experience
At least 3 months of international experience (e.g. semester abroad or internship abroad)
Languages
Fluent English, German is a plus
Other
Not specified
Application process
How does the application work?
01
Online application
Application documents, typically a CV, cover letter and relevant certificates, are submitted via the company's career portal. An automatic confirmation follows, while substantive feedback from HR is generally provided within one to four weeks.
02
Online test
A standardized aptitude test completed online, typically covering logical reasoning, numerical and verbal skills as well as personality. The total duration ranges from 20 to 90 minutes.
03
Recorded video interview
An interview without a live interviewer, in which candidates respond to predefined questions on camera. It typically comprises five to seven questions, each with two minutes to respond.
04
Interview with HR
An interview with the HR department, usually conducted via video and lasting 30 to 60 minutes. It focuses predominantly on academic background, motivation, cultural fit and behavioral questions on soft skills.
not required
Department interview
An interview with the manager or team of the department you are applying to, usually conducted via video and lasting 45 to 90 minutes. It centers on technical questions, situational cases and the alignment of mutual expectations.
05
Assessment center
A multi-stage selection day comprising presentations, case studies, group exercises and individual interviews. The format varies by company and may take place on site or virtually.
START IN: your questions answered
What is the gross salary in the BASF graduate program?
BASF does not publicly disclose the gross salary of its graduate program. Remuneration is communicated individually during the selection process.
How many months does the BASF graduate program last?
The START IN program lasts 18–24 months. The program is designed as a structured career entry, in which graduates acquire practical experience across different areas and contribute to their own projects. Upon completion, graduates typically move into a permanent position within the company.
What qualifications does the BASF graduate program require?
The START IN program requires a suitable professional profile. A master's degree is required. Candidates from any discipline relevant to the designated department are considered. Fluent English is essential; German is a plus. Beyond the formal criteria, companies typically place significant emphasis on relevant practical experience, confident English and a convincing presence in interviews.
How does the application process for the BASF graduate program work?
The application process for the START IN program comprises five stages: online application, online test, one-way video interview, interview with HR and assessment center. Application documents, typically a CV and cover letter, are submitted via the BASF career portal. The stages are completed consecutively and may extend over several weeks, depending on the application round. Thorough preparation for the interviews and subsequent selection stages significantly increases the likelihood of success.
Does the BASF graduate program include an international assignment?
The BASF graduate program offers the option of an international assignment. Whether an international rotation takes place depends on the chosen department and individual development goals.
When can I apply for the BASF graduate program?
The BASF graduate program is currently open for applications. An early application is recommended.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Company | BASF |
| Program | START IN |
| Industry | Chemicals |
| Main location | Ludwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate |
| Program length | 18-24 months |
