15 Best Cybersecurity Internships
Internships are such a great way for college students to gain real-world experience and boost their career prospects. By taking part in an internship, you’ll connect what you’re learning in the classroom with practical, hands-on skills, all while growing your professional network and making yourself more appealing to future employers.
If cybersecurity is your area of interest, internships can give you a chance to dive into key areas like information security, risk management, and threat detection. You'll get a peek into the industry’s practices and cutting-edge technologies, helping you develop the skills that will set you up for success.
In this post, we’re sharing 15 cybersecurity internships that can help you stand out in this fast-growing field.
1. Ladder University Internship Program
Cost: $2,490 (Financial Aid Available)
Location: Remote; open to participants worldwide
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year, varies with the cohort
Dates: Multiple 8-12 week cohorts throughout the year, including summer, fall, winter, and spring
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduates, and students on a gap year are welcome to apply.
The Ladder Cybersecurity Internship Program, founded by Harvard alumni, is a selective virtual opportunity connecting students with global cybersecurity startups, tech firms, and nonprofits. Interns can focus on areas like threat analysis, security compliance, incident response, and information security management. You’ll contribute to real-world projects and present your findings at the end. Each intern receives mentorship from both a manager at their assigned organization and a Ladder coach, offering extra support throughout the program.
2. CISA - Scholarship for Service (SFS) Intern
Stipend: $26,975 - $80,737 per year
Location: Anywhere in the U.S. (Remote job)
Dates: May (Minimum 10 weeks, Maximum 20 weeks)
Application Deadline: January 17
Eligibility: Open to current Scholarship for Service (SFS) recipients pursuing an associate, bachelor’s, or graduate degree in a relevant field.
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) offers an internship as part of the Scholarship for Service (SFS) program, aimed at providing students with on-the-job training for federal government cybersecurity roles. Interns will engage in various tasks, gradually taking on more responsibility as they gain experience. Initial duties will be carried out under close supervision, with the opportunity to assume more complex assignments as their skills develop.
3. MITRE Cybersecurity Strategy and Analysis Internship
Cost/Stipend: Paid (compensation details not specified)
Location: Bedford, Massachusetts, and McLean, Virginia
Dates: May–August (Full-time, 40 hours per week)
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Must be enrolled full-time in an accredited degree program in Cybersecurity, Information Security, or a related field, with continued enrollment the semester following the internship.
Join MITRE’s Center for Securing the Homeland (CSH) and contribute to projects that strengthen national security and cybersecurity infrastructure. As an intern, you’ll work alongside experts on critical issues, including cybersecurity strategy, international cyber capacity building, threat analysis, and science and technology forecasting.
Responsibilities include conducting research, analyzing collected data to generate insights, and developing actionable recommendations. Interns will also have opportunities to engage in high-level discussions and present findings to senior government officials and technical teams.
Candidates should have strong analytical and communication skills, experience with cybersecurity frameworks, and an interest in international cyber norms, digital frameworks, or regional diplomacy. Prior experience with tools like PowerPoint and familiarity with State Department initiatives or regional areas like the Western Hemisphere, East Asia, or Eastern Europe is highly desirable.
4. Research Associate – Digital and Cyberspace Policy (Council on Foreign Relations)
Cost/Stipend: $55,000–$58,000 annually
Location: New York City, New York, or Washington, DC
Dates: Full-time, ongoing
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with strong academic credentials or significant experience in a related field.
Join the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), a premier foreign policy think tank, as a Research Associate supporting the senior fellow for digital and cyberspace policy. This role involves monitoring developments in technology policy, including AI governance, data privacy, global digital governance, information integrity, and national security.
Responsibilities include researching and drafting articles, reports, blog posts, and white papers; managing program budgets; coordinating events and logistics; and liaising across CFR departments. The position provides a unique opportunity to engage with global issues, develop expertise in digital policy, and contribute to discussions on U.S. foreign policy.
Candidates must demonstrate strong research, writing, and organizational skills. Familiarity with technology policy, international governance mechanisms, and a commitment to understanding foreign relations is advantageous. This is a full-time position with an annual salary ranging from $55,000 to $58,000, depending on experience.
5. Datacor Summer 2025 Internship Program
Cost/Stipend: Paid (Details not specified)
Location: Remote, US
Dates: Approximately 2 months (Summer)
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program with a minimum GPA of 3.0; prior professional or internship experience preferred.
The Datacor Summer Internship Program offers a unique opportunity to work with a leading software provider in the process manufacturing industry. Interns are matched to roles based on their interests and business needs, with potential assignments in IT (Development, Operations, IT Security), Products, or Sales. Participants will contribute to meaningful projects that support Datacor's priorities, gaining practical experience and collaborating with internal teams.
Interns will receive mentorship from experts, develop technical and professional skills, and engage in workshops and networking events with company leaders. Typical responsibilities include coding new features, conducting application support tests, researching product improvements, piloting IT security initiatives, and analyzing sales and marketing data.
This program is ideal for students eager to make a tangible business impact while developing industry-relevant skills in software development, IT security, product research, and revenue operations.
6. IT Security Summer Internship – Cornerstone Advisors
Cost/Stipend: Paid Internship
Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
Dates: May 21 – August 1
Application Deadline: April 10
Eligibility: Rising seniors majoring in Information Technology, Information Security, or Cybersecurity with a minimum GPA of 3.4.
The IT Security Summer Internship at Cornerstone Advisors offers hands-on experience in banking and fintech. Interns actively engage with security alerts, tools, data analysis, and provide level 1 help desk support. Projects include security monitoring, data management, and possibly business analysis. Interns complete a Capstone project based on primary research, presenting practical insights into consulting. Participants receive mentorship, interact with senior executives, and attend professional development sessions. High-performing interns may be offered a full-time role after graduation.
7. Qualcomm Cybersecurity Internship Program
Stipend: $17.00 - $98.00 per hour, with additional benefits including relocation coverage and furnished housing accommodations
Location: San Diego, California, or various U.S. offices
Dates: Summer (11–14 weeks from May to September)
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Students pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems,
Cybersecurity, or related fields, with graduation dates of December 2025 or later. Ideal candidates have knowledge of cybersecurity principles, statistics, ML/AI, security frameworks, and programming skills in Java, C, C++, Python, and more.
Qualcomm’s Cybersecurity Internship provides hands-on experience in various cybersecurity areas, including OT security, security architecture, GRC, threat intelligence, and incident response. Interns collaborate with engineers and stakeholders to enhance Qualcomm’s infrastructure, gaining practical skills in a dynamic setting. The program emphasizes teamwork, professional development, and DEI. Interns receive mentorship, attend workshops, networking events, and cross-functional sessions, and have access to the Qualcomm employee community.
8. GE HealthCare IT Leadership & Development Internship Program
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Location: Wisconsin, Illinois, or remote
Dates: Summer (10-week full-time internship)
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Legal authorization to work in the U.S. required. Must be pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, IT Security, Software Engineering, or a related STEM field, with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
GE HealthCare’s Information Technology Leadership & Development Internship Program is designed for students eager to build leadership, technical, and business skills in IT. Over 10 weeks, interns work on projects in Data Analytics, IT Operations, Digital Engineering, and Technical Product & Project Management. Interns tackle real-world IT challenges, contribute creative solutions, and develop leadership abilities through cross-functional team projects. The program provides exposure to IT and software trends, fostering growth in technical and project management skills within a global healthcare innovator.
9. NYSERDA Data Solutions Internship
Stipend: Paid ($18–$20/hour)
Location: Hybrid (New York State or adjacent states)
Dates: Summer; potential to continue during the school year
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Open to full-time undergraduate or graduate students with knowledge of data management, cybersecurity, or related fields.
The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA) is at the forefront of combating climate change and transitioning to a clean energy economy. The Data Solutions team seeks a summer intern passionate about data governance, cybersecurity, and renewable energy. This paid position offers a hybrid work model, combining remote and in-office opportunities for candidates based in New York or nearby states.
Interns will collaborate with the Chief Information Security Officer, Legal teams, and other NYSERDA departments to implement data management best practices and information security controls. Responsibilities include supporting initiatives tied to data security, open data, and renewable energy programs, offering hands-on experience in a critical area of energy innovation.
10. CIA Cyber Security Researcher
Stipend: $72,965 - $128,956 (dependent on experience)
Location: Washington, DC metro area
Dates: This information is not available at the moment
Application deadline: This information is not available at the moment
Eligibility:
- U.S. citizenship, age 18+, completion of security/medical evaluations, selective service registration if applicable
- Bachelor’s degree (3.0 GPA minimum) in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Software Engineering; or 5+ years of hands-on professional experience in fields like offensive security and system-level software development
This role requires a strong foundation in system programming, particularly with languages like C and C++, and experience with operating systems such as UNIX/Linux, Windows, iOS, or Android. Familiarity with key cybersecurity concepts, such as Computer Network Exploitation (CNE) and Computer Network Attack (CNA) techniques, is essential. Proficiency in scripting languages like Python, Bash, Ruby, or PowerShell is necessary for task automation and log interpretation. Strong communication skills are important for explaining technical concepts to non-technical audiences. A commitment to information security, analytical skills, and adaptability is key for success in this role.
11. Cyber Software Engineer Co-op/Intern – Northrop Grumman
Stipend: $18.50 to $29.75 per hour
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Dates: Spring (full-time, 40 hours per week)
Application deadline: TBA
Eligibility: Full-time undergraduate or graduate students majoring in a STEM field.
At Northrop Grumman, Cyber Software Engineer Co-op/Interns work on systems that have global impacts. Responsibilities include troubleshooting, testing, and maintaining equipment and systems in electronic, mechanical, electromechanical, or optical areas. Interns will work from engineering drawings and verbal instructions, conduct tests, and report findings in a prescribed format. They’ll also perform calibration and alignment checks, making adjustments as needed to ensure system functionality.
12. CyberPeace Institute Cyber Outreach & Research Internship
Cost: Unpaid (Internship stipend expectations should be outlined in the application)
Location: Remote or U.S.-based
Dates: Start as soon as possible; duration 3-6 months or more (flexible)
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Open to current students or recent graduates in cybersecurity, digital rights, international relations, public policy, or related fields at a U.S. university.
The CyberPeace Institute is dedicated to protecting vulnerable populations in cyberspace and advocating for peace by addressing cybersecurity threats and the misuse of artificial intelligence. As a Cyber Outreach & Research Intern, you will join their U.S.-based team to support outreach, research, scheduling, and writing initiatives. This role offers hands-on experience in cybersecurity advocacy and nonprofit operations, making it ideal for individuals passionate about digital rights and protecting civil society organizations.
Interns will gain practical experience in outreach and advocacy, deepen their understanding of cybersecurity and digital rights, and enhance their research, analytical, and professional communication skills. Responsibilities include conducting research, managing outreach to partners and stakeholders, drafting materials, organizing events, and supporting administrative tasks. Applicants should demonstrate strong writing and organizational abilities, familiarity with tools like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace, and a proactive work ethic.
13. Software Engineering Internship – ByteDance
Stipend: $42.75 per hour
Location: Seattle, Washington
Dates: May/June (12 weeks)
Application Deadline: Rolling basis.
Eligibility: Currently pursuing an Undergraduate/Graduate degree in Computer Science or a related technical discipline.
ByteDance offers an opportunity for interns to work on meaningful projects in a dynamic environment. Interns will develop efficient front-end systems for e-commerce web applications, focusing on code optimization for scalability, reliability, security, and performance. Collaboration with product design, management, and engineering teams will ensure top-tier user experiences. Preferred candidates are agile, self-motivated, creative problem solvers, and team players, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, diverse, and globally distributed setting. Applicants should plan to return to their degree programs after the internship.
14. Cybersecurity Internship – TikTok USDS
Stipend: $30 per hour
Location: New York
Dates: May/June (12 weeks)
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's in Cybersecurity Policy & Compliance, Risk Management, Information Systems, or a related field.
TikTok is offering a summer 2025 internship in its U.S. Data Security division, providing hands-on experience across multiple departments, including Cyber Defense Engineering and Threat Detection. This role allows interns to contribute to TikTok’s mission of creativity and user safety. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. as visa sponsorship is not available. The internship is categorized as "general hire," meaning applications are considered for several positions.
15. Rocket Companies - Information Security Intern (Student Veteran Program) - Summer 2025
Stipend: Competitive salary (not specified)
Location: Detroit, Michigan
Application Deadline: December 31
Program Dates: Summer
Eligibility: Recently transitioned military veterans, military spouses, or actively serving National Guard & Reservists
Rocket Companies' Student Veteran Program offers recently transitioned military veterans, their spouses, and active National Guard & Reservists an opportunity to gain hands-on experience at an award-winning company. Participants will develop their skills, engage in professional development events, and connect with a supportive community of team members across the organization.
16. Refonte Infini Cybersecurity Training & Internship (RIGTIP)
Cost/Stipend: None
Location: Remote (Global)
Dates: Not specified
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Open to students pursuing any degree with a strong interest in cybersecurity and related fields.
Refonte Infini's Cybersecurity Training & Internship Program (RIGTIP) offers hands-on experience in advanced cybersecurity, including SAST, DAST, IAST, and OWASP methodologies. Participants collaborate with global teams across regions like Oceania, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, working on real-world projects in vulnerability assessment, threat modeling, ethical hacking, and secure system development.
Interns gain practical skills in network scanning, reconnaissance, and web security while learning to implement robust security strategies. Open to students from any background, the program values strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability. Though unpaid, RIGTIP provides invaluable training and global exposure for future cybersecurity professionals.