If you’re a recent graduate in computer science or engineering, a position as a Software Development Engineer I (SDE I) at Amazon could kick-start your career. Amazon is hiring new graduates for SDE I roles under its University Talent Acquisition 2025 program. In this post, we explain the eligibility requirements, job responsibilities, application steps, and key reasons why this role is valuable for freshers.
Amazon SDE I Hiring 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Title | Software Dev Engineer I |
| Hiring Type | Off-campus |
| Experience | 0–2 years (Freshers eligible) |
| Qualification | B.E/B.Tech/M.E/M.Tech in CS/IT/related fields |
| Locations | Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai |
| Application Link | Click Here |
| Compensation | Industry-leading package + Benefits + Stock options |
Why This Amazon SDE I Role Is a Big Deal for Freshers
Amazon works on large-scale projects that affect millions of users. Its engineering teams tackle complex challenges across services like AWS, Alexa, Prime Video, and Amazon.com every day. This SDE I role offers:
- Opportunity to work on scalable distributed systems. You’ll contribute to back-end and cloud services that support millions of customers.
- Hands-on learning with experienced engineers. You’ll collaborate with senior developers and learn from their expertise.
- Experience with the full software development lifecycle (SDLC). From requirements to deployment, you’ll see how production software is built.
- Real-world projects requiring innovation and global collaboration. You’ll work on teams that span locations and improve services for Amazon customers worldwide.
Whether your interest is backend, frontend, or distributed computing, the SDE I role offers many opportunities to build your career at Amazon.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Software Development Engineer I role, you generally need:
- A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
- Solid understanding of data structures, algorithms, object-oriented design, and basic system design.
- Programming experience in one or more of these languages: Java, C/C++, Python, or Perl.
- (Preferred) Internship or project experience with distributed systems or scalable software.
- Strong problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work effectively without detailed instructions.
- Good communication skills.
Key Responsibilities of an Amazon Software Development Engineer I
As an SDE I at Amazon, your role involves more than just writing code. You will:
- Work with senior engineers to design and deliver high-quality software.
- Participate in Agile development cycles for rapid progress.
- Write modular, scalable code for complex systems.
- Build distributed systems with high availability and low latency.
- Create data storage or indexing solutions for efficient data handling.
- Contribute to system architecture decisions.
- Develop customer-focused features and improvements.
Day-to-day tasks could involve building machine learning models, backend services, or real-time applications, depending on your team.
Job Locations
Amazon is hiring SDE I candidates in major Indian tech hubs:
- Bangalore (KA)
- Hyderabad (Telangana)
- Chennai (TN)
- Mumbai (MH)
- Delhi NCR
Choose your preferred location when applying.
How to Apply for the Amazon SDE I Role (Freshers)
Applications for the Software Development Engineer I position are open on a continuous basis. Here are the steps to submit a strong application:
- Go to Amazon’s Careers Site. Visit amazon.jobs, the official portal for Amazon job listings.
- Find the SDE I Position. Use the search bar to locate the “Software Dev Engineer I – University Talent Acquisition” position (Job ID: 3015604). Select your target location (e.g. Bangalore, Hyderabad).
- Complete the Application. Sign in (or create) your Amazon Jobs account and fill in your details, education, and experience. Keep your resume up-to-date and tailored to this role. Include projects (academic or personal) that demonstrate your problem-solving and coding skills. Add GitHub or portfolio links with code samples or demos. Mention any relevant certifications or courses. List internships or relevant work experience. Highlight achievements like coding contests or hackathons. Amazon values clear, detailed applications, so present your skills directly.
- Upload Your Documents. Submit your resume as a PDF. You may add a brief cover letter (optional). Once you submit, your application goes into the evaluation process.
- Track Your Application. Amazon will update your candidate portal with the status. Check the portal or your email for coding test invitations and interview schedules. Remember to check your spam folder for messages from Amazon.
Selection Process: What to Expect
The hiring process for Amazon’s SDE I role has several stages to test your coding skills and overall fit. Amazon looks for candidates who solve challenging problems, work well on teams, and reflect the company’s Leadership Principles.
- Online Assessment (OA). Shortlisted candidates receive an online coding test. It usually includes 2–3 problems on data structures and algorithms (arrays, strings, trees, graphs, dynamic programming). Some tests include debugging tasks (fixing broken code). You’ll have 90–120 minutes to complete it in one sitting. Write efficient, correct code under time pressure—strong fundamentals in DSA can make a big difference.
- Technical Interviews (2–3 Rounds). If you pass the OA, you’ll have two or three technical interviews with Amazon engineers. These sessions focus on coding and problem-solving. You’ll use a shared editor (like a coding whiteboard) to solve algorithmic problems. You may also be asked to outline a basic system design (for example, a cache or rate limiter). Advanced design knowledge isn’t required, but demonstrate clear thinking about modularity, scalability, and performance. In addition, expect behavioral questions based on Amazon’s Leadership Principles (e.g., describe a time you took ownership, overcame a challenge, or learned from failure). Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and show how you fit Amazon’s culture.
- Bar Raiser Round. The final interview is the Bar Raiser round, led by a senior Amazon engineer not on the hiring team. The Bar Raiser ensures Amazon’s hiring standards are met. This round tests both your technical depth and cultural fit. You might solve a new problem or improve a solution from an earlier round. The interviewer focuses on your problem-solving approach, creativity, and ability to handle open-ended challenges. Bar Raisers look for ownership, leadership potential, and alignment with Amazon’s values. Even if previous rounds went well, this round can be decisive.
The process is challenging, but it assesses a wide range of skills (coding, design, leadership, teamwork). By preparing well and understanding what Amazon looks for, you improve your chances of landing the SDE I role.
Why Join Amazon as a Fresher?
- Continuous Learning: Amazon supports ongoing skill development. From day one, you have resources like AWS credits to learn new technologies. You can join internal hackathons or projects to pursue ideas you care about. The company encourages attending tech conferences and provides training tools, so you can grow continuously.
- Real Ownership from Day One: At Amazon, new engineers can own significant projects. Even at the SDE I level, you may be responsible for code that runs in production and serves customers worldwide. You’ll have a direct impact rather than just doing minor tasks.
- Meaningful Mentorship: Amazon pairs new grads with experienced engineers who guide their development. Through regular check-ins, code reviews, and one-on-one sessions, you’ll receive feedback and support. This focused mentorship helps you improve your skills quickly.
- Global-Scale Impact: The projects you work on run at Amazon’s scale. For example, you might build features for recommendation engines used by millions, improve warehouse logistics, or enhance global security. Each project affects real users, so your work has a tangible impact.
- Inclusive, People-First Culture: Amazon emphasizes diversity and inclusion. If you’re the first in your family to enter tech or from an underrepresented background, you’ll find support networks and affinity groups. The company culture respects every individual’s perspective.
- Global Mobility and Career Growth: Amazon operates worldwide, giving high performers opportunities to transfer teams or relocate internationally. You can explore different roles or geographies as your interests evolve. Your career path isn’t limited to one project or location.
Joining Amazon as a new grad isn’t the destination—it can be the start of a rewarding career. You’ll build real products, learn from experienced colleagues, and improve rapidly. Amazon encourages new ideas and provides support, so there’s room to grow.
You don’t need to wait for a “perfect” moment. If you’re interested, apply early and prepare well. This role could change your career path. Good luck with your application!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Software Development Engineer I
- Q1: Who is eligible to apply for the SDE I role at Amazon?
A: Final-year or recent graduates (B.E/B.Tech/M.E/M.Tech in CS/IT or related fields) from 2025 or earlier with strong programming and analytical skills can apply. - Q2: Is prior internship experience mandatory for this position?
A: No, internships are not mandatory. Strong personal or academic projects and open-source contributions are also highly valued. - Q3: What programming languages are allowed in the online assessment?
A: Amazon’s coding tests usually allow Java, C/C++, and Python (and often C# or similar). Stick to a language you know well. - Q4: How many rounds are there in the Amazon SDE I hiring process?
A: Typically 3–4 stages: an online coding test, 2–3 technical interview rounds, and the final Bar Raiser/behavioral interview. - Q5: Can candidates from Tier-2 or Tier-3 colleges apply?
A: Yes. Amazon focuses on skills and potential, not the college name. - Q6: What is the expected compensation for SDE I in India?
A: Total compensation is often around ₹20–30 LPA (including base salary, performance bonus, and stock grants). Exact amounts vary by location and package. - Q7: Is the SDE I role remote or in-office?
A: The role is primarily location-based (office). Some teams may offer hybrid flexibility, but it generally requires being in the city you apply for. - Q8: Are relocation benefits offered?
A: Yes. Amazon typically provides relocation assistance (travel, temporary housing) if you move for the job. - Q9: Does Amazon require a service bond for SDE I hires?
A: No, Amazon does not have a service bond requirement for this position. - Q10: How long does the interview process take?
A: It usually takes 2–4 weeks from application to offer, depending on scheduling and feedback. - Q11: What topics should I focus on to prepare?
A: Focus on data structures and algorithms (arrays, strings, trees, graphs, dynamic programming), object-oriented programming, and Amazon’s Leadership Principles. Practice coding problems and review basic system design. - Q12: Where can I track my application status?
A: You can track it on the Amazon Jobs portal under your candidate profile. Also watch your email for updates. - Q13: Do I need to take any exam like GATE for this job?
A: No. Amazon’s hiring does not require GATE or similar exams. Only the online test and interviews matter. - Q14: Will I work on real-world projects as an SDE I?
A: Absolutely. Entry-level SDEs at Amazon work on production systems and features used by customers every day. - Q15: Can I reapply if I’m rejected once?
A: Yes. Typically you can reapply after 6–12 months, ideally with more practice or experience in between.
Final Thoughts – Buzzindie
Landing an SDE I role at Amazon can be a career milestone. You’ll work on projects that affect real customers and learn from experienced engineers. The challenges are significant, but the opportunities to grow your skills and career are equally big. If you’re eager to tackle complex problems and collaborate with passionate teams, Amazon can provide a great environment.
Apply early, prepare diligently, and give it your best—this could be the start of an exciting career journey.