Airbnb has a competitive selection process for software engineering interns, and a well-crafted resume is crucial to getting noticed. Based on recent intern experiences and recruiter insights, here’s what Airbnb looks for in an application:
1. Strong Technical Skills & Programming Proficiency
Airbnb prioritizes candidates with solid computer science fundamentals, including data structures, algorithms, and problem-solving skills. Your resume should highlight coursework, projects, or experiences that demonstrate your ability to code efficiently.
While Airbnb does not mandate a specific programming language, candidates proficient in Python, Java, C++, or JavaScript have an edge. If you have experience with web development (React, Node.js, Ruby on Rails), cloud computing, or distributed systems, be sure to mention it, as these align with Airbnb’s tech stack.
2. GPA & Academic Performance
GPA is often used as an initial screening criterion. A 3.5+ GPA is generally recommended, though it’s not the only factor. If your GPA is strong, include it. If it’s on the lower side, focus on your projects, skills, and achievements to showcase your abilities beyond academics.
3. Personal Projects, Open-Source Contributions & Hackathons
Candidates who build projects outside of coursework stand out. Personal projects, hackathon wins, and open-source contributions show initiative and practical experience. If you’ve built web apps, automation tools, or worked on open-source projects, highlight them in your resume.
Hackathons demonstrate problem-solving, teamwork, and the ability to build under pressure, qualities Airbnb values. If you’ve participated, mention your project and any awards or recognition received.
4. Relevant Work Experience & Internships
Previous internships at tech companies, startups, or research labs add credibility. If you’ve interned before, structure your resume to include technologies used, key contributions, and measurable impact (e.g., “Optimized backend API, reducing response time by 30%”). Even freelance work or contract projects can be valuable if they demonstrate real-world experience.
5. Leadership & Teamwork
Airbnb values collaboration and culture fit, so team projects, leadership roles, or mentoring experience can help. If you’ve led a project, contributed to a team, or worked on cross-functional collaborations, highlight those experiences.
6. Customization & Clarity in Resume Formatting
Your resume should be:
- One page long (concise and focused)
- Well-structured with clear headings and bullet points
- Tailored to Airbnb—mention relevant skills, projects, or technologies that align with their work
Avoid generic resumes, typos, or unnecessary fluff. Clear, impactful descriptions with quantified results (e.g., “Increased database efficiency by 20%”) make a strong impression.
7. Cultural Fit & Airbnb’s Core Values
Beyond technical ability, Airbnb looks for candidates who align with their core values:
- Champion the Mission (passionate about impact-driven work)
- Be a Host (collaborative and community-driven)
- Embrace the Adventure (adaptable and innovative)
- Be a ‘Cereal’ Entrepreneur (creative problem-solver)
In nutshell, your resume should reflect not just technical excellence but also a proactive, problem-solving mindset.
Explore Airbnb’s latest internship opportunities and take the next step in your career. Browse through available roles, explore popular internship programs, and find the perfect opportunity to apply.