20 Excellent Medical Internships
If you’re a college student seeking a career in medicine, consider participating in a medical internship. A top-notch medical internship will enhance your profile and resume, helping you stand out in highly competitive fields. It will improve your employability odds by immersing you in the day-to-day realities of patient care, research, or public health initiatives.
In this blog, we’ve listed 20 excellent medical internships for college students, each designed to support budding medical professionals in their journey toward a fulfilling healthcare career. Let’s get started!
1. Ladder University Internship Program
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,490 (financial aid is available)
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year
Internship Dates: 8-week programs with multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer, fall, winter, and spring
Eligibility: Ambitious and hardworking college-level students (experience in the selected field is not required)
The Ladder University Internship Program is a world-class program founded by alumni of the prestigious Harvard University. It provides ambitious college students and young professionals with virtual internship experiences at start-ups and not-for-profit organizations all across the world. This program not only enhances practical skills but also fosters personal growth through one-on-one training and group sessions with fellow interns, creating a comprehensive learning experience in the medical field.
What sets the Ladder University Internship Program apart is its strong emphasis on mentorship. It gives students and young professionals the opportunity to collaborate with seasoned professionals, engage with innovative research, and contribute to significant projects. As an intern, you will get to work closely with your startup manager and also be paired with a Ladder Coach, providing an additional layer of guidance and support. You can choose from a variety of medical internships, whether research and lab-based or healthcare-based.
2. Summer Training as Research Scholars Program (STaRS) Graduate – Medical Sciences, Boston University
Location: Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
Stipend: Stipend available for program participation
Application Deadline: February 1. Apply here
Internship Dates: June 2 – August 8
Eligibility: Rising juniors or rising college seniors at the start of Summer (i.e. graduating next year and beyond) who:
- Are U.S. citizens or permanent residents
Are currently enrolled in a STEM degree program, part-time or full-time, leading to a Bachelor’s degree
- Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
The Summer Training as Research Scholars Program (STaRS) is an immersive on-site summer research program for undergraduates and first-year Boston University medical students. The program is designed to confirm your interest in pursuing doctoral studies and a career in biomedical research. It is funded by the NIH and targets individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds to broaden access to careers in biomedical sciences.
As a participant, you will gain hands-on research experience through independent projects on topics like heart, lung, and blood research, while being guided by faculty mentors. You’ll also attend research skills seminars, article presentations, oral and written skills workshops, and more.
3. Summer Honors Undergraduate Research Program (SHURP) – Harvard University
Location: Harvard University, Division of Medical Sciences, Boston, Massachusetts
Stipend: A stipend of $5,000 is available to most participants
Application Deadline: Applications are open from November 1. Apply here!
Internship Dates: June 2 – August 8
Eligibility: Medical Undergraduate students. Previous research experience is required – at least one summer or semester of independent lab research.
The Summer Honors Undergraduate Research Program (SHURP) is a ten-week paid research program at Harvard Medical School’s Division of Medical Sciences. It is tailored for undergraduate students from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds.
As a participant, you will engage in life sciences research under faculty guidance, with some opportunities in physical sciences and bioengineering, as well as computational biology and bioinformatics. The program includes weekly career development sessions, peer mentoring, and opportunities for networking with SHURP alumni and mentors. You’ll also get to showcase your research through poster presentations at the Leadership Alliance National Symposium and an oral presentation at the program’s conclusion.
4. Pre-Med Enrichment Program – UCLA Medical School
Location: UCLA, Los Angeles, California
Stipend: Participants can choose between receiving a stipend at the end of the program or pre-arranged housing
Application Deadline: Applications open on December 2 and close on March 3
Internship Dates: July 7 – August 15; Virtual MCAT Review: July 7 – July 18; In-Person: July 21 – August 15
Eligibility: Community college students, non-California residents, and post-baccalaureate students. See more info here.
UCLA’s Pre-Med Enrichment Program (PREP) is an intensive six-week summer program for pre-med students facing social, economic, or educational disadvantages. The program aims to prepare you to study medicine and improve your chances of acceptance into medical school.
During the program, you can expect to benefit from:
Personal development: Develop the skills needed for medical school and discuss pathways to medical school, career paths, mental health, and more. You’ll get to participate in panels with medical professionals and PREP alumni and form connections with your peers.
Academic enrichment: Take part in workshops and a problem-based learning (PBL) curriculum to study clinical cases and develop appropriate responses.
MCAT bootcamp and review: Participate in daily MCAT review sessions and make sure you’re ready for the MCAT.
Application support: Attend presentations hosted by admissions professionals and gain a better understanding of what to expect from medical school applications. You’ll also be able to stay in touch with admissions staff regarding your applications even after PREP.
Location: School of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington D.C.
Stipend: $4000
Application Deadline: Typically, late February
Internship Dates: June to July (tentatively)
Eligibility: College sophomores and juniors enrolled in U.S.-accredited colleges/universities and authorized to work in the U.S. Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher. See here for more info.
The Academy for Research, Clinical, and Health Equity Scholarship (ARCHES) at Georgetown University School of Medicine is a six-week residential summer program for pre-health students from accredited U.S. colleges and universities. Each year, ten undergraduate fellows are selected to participate in ARCHES, where they engage in hands-on research, gain clinical exposure, and tackle pressing health equity issues in the Washington, D.C. area.
6. Travelers Summer Research Fellowship Program – Weill Cornell Medicine Medical College
Location: Weill Cornell Medicine, New York City (NYC), New York
Stipend: $3,000
Application Deadline: February 1
Internship Dates: June 16 – August 1
Eligibility: Undergraduates in their junior year (third year of college), seniors applying to medical school, and college graduates in a pre-medical post-baccalaureate program. Read here for more info.
The Travelers Summer Research Fellowship Program offers an in-depth research and professional development experience for 25-27 premedical students, emphasizing both clinical and basic science research training under the supervision of Weill Cornell Medicine faculty. This experiential learning allows you to gain investigative techniques that you can carry forward into your medical education.
The program's didactic curriculum covers key public health topics, including healthcare for underserved and uninsured populations, healthcare disparities, and foundational research principles. In addition, it provides practical insights into financing medical education, preparing for the MCAT, and navigating the medical school application process.
7. Summer Student Pre-Med & Research Program – Hartford Hospital
Location: Hartford Hospital, Hartford, Connecticut
Stipend: $4,000
Application Deadline: Open from December 4 to February 20
Internship Dates: June 2 – August 8
Eligibility: Pre-medical college students completing their junior year by May with a cumulative GPA of 3.4 or higher. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
The Summer Student Pre-Med & Research Program at Hartford Hospital is a 10-week clinical research opportunity for third-year college students aspiring to careers in medicine. The program will introduce you to research methodology, patient care, and medical ethics, with exposure to a wide array of healthcare providers in a large teaching hospital setting. Under the guidance of senior investigators, you will work on research projects that align with your interests, though project assignments are based on availability.
8. Biostatistics Epidemiology Summer Training – Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
Location: Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York City (NYC), New York
Stipend: $2,800
Application Deadline: March 15
Internship Dates: TBA; 8 weeks
Eligibility: For more information, read here.
- Undergraduate students with a disability or physical impairment or students who are economically disadvantaged. Must be committed to diversity in public health training.
- Students should have completed at least one year at an accredited school or university or be enrolled in a community or junior college. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
The Biostatistics Epidemiology Summer Training (BEST) Program, hosted by the Department of Biostatistics at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, is an eight-week immersive experience designed to diversify the behavioral and biomedical sciences workforce. As a participant, you will gain valuable insights into the field through research training, academic and career planning, and social activities around New York City.
The BEST program targets undergraduates from underrepresented backgrounds who have faced barriers in pursuing education in the sciences and public health. It will introduce you to biostatistics and research on cardiovascular and pulmonary disease.
9. Summer Pathway Programs – The University of Chicago
Location: The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
Stipend: $3,200
Application Deadline: January 27
Internship Dates: June 9 – August 4 for both CAMP and PSOMER
Eligibility: Rising juniors or seniors who have completed intermediate- or advanced-level biology, chemistry, and/or physics courses. Gives priority to students who come from disadvantaged or underrepresented communities.
The Chicago Academic Medicine Program (CAMP) and the Pritzker School of Medicine Experience in Research (PSOMER) offer intensive eight-week programs for undergraduate students. These programs provide a platform to develop research skills, forge mentor relationships, and prepare for medical school.
During CAMP, you will focus on basic science and clinical research and conclude the program with a research presentation forum. You will benefit from pre-medical advising, MCAT preparation, and hands-on experience in research projects under the guidance of faculty and clinical staff. Similarly, PSOMER combines rigorous research opportunities with discussions on healthcare disparities, ethics, and statistical tools, fostering a well-rounded perspective on medical research.
While these programs provide valuable mentorship and career preparation, the intensity and competitive nature may feel overwhelming without strong organizational and time-management skills. You should be ready for a demanding schedule involving lab work, discussions, and presentations.
10. Summer Research Program – Texas A&M College of Medicine
Location: Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Texas
Stipend: $4,000 for selected participants
Application Deadline: February 1
Internship Dates: May 19 – July 25
Eligibility: Undergraduate students from any institution interested in a future career in biomedical research. Participants are expected to complete the entire 10-week program.
The Texas A&M Summer Research Program offers a 10-week, immersive experience for undergraduates interested in pursuing careers in biomedical research. During the program, you will be placed in research labs at the Texas A&M University College of Medicine, where you will work closely with faculty mentors on projects in basic or clinical science disciplines, gaining hands-on experience in biomedical research methodology.
You will be paired with a mentor in your area of interest, assisting with a research project while developing skills in the design, implementation, and analysis of scientific studies. The program's curriculum also includes weekly group meetings focused on scientific investigation principles, ethics in experimentation, and career development.
11. Clinical Research Internship Study Program – Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science
Location: Jacksonville, Florida & Rochester, Minnesota
Stipend: $3,000
Application Deadline: January 31
Internship Dates: May 27 – August 1
Eligibility: Students who are 18 by the start of the program, currently enrolled in or a graduate of an accredited U.S. college or university, and have completed freshman year of college; must be U.S. citizens and have a GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
The Clinical Research Internship Study Program (CRISP) is a paid, 10-week summer internship at the Mayo Clinic's Florida and Minnesota campuses. It is designed for college students exploring careers in medicine, healthcare, or science. As an intern, you will work under the guidance of a faculty mentor on tailored clinical research projects, which the Mayo Clinic Institutional Review Board reviews.
The program includes mandatory orientation, weekly educational lectures, and the completion of a research project, culminating in a written summary and oral presentation. You will gain hands-on experience in research methodology, enhance analytical skills, and deepen your understanding of clinical practices through projects on topics like marathon injuries and liver transplants. While the program offers valuable mentorship and professional growth, its intensive nature and strict on-site requirements demand strong time management and commitment.
12. Cancer Research Interns – National Cancer Institute NIH
Location: NIH Campus at Bethesda or one of the satellite campuses – NCI Shady Grove Campus or NCI Frederick Campus
Stipend: $2,690 – $3,390 per month
Application Deadline: January 6; apply here
Internship Dates: May – August
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who are 18 with a GPA of 3.0 or higher
The Cancer Research Interns (CRI) Summer Program at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) is a paid 12-week internship for undergraduate, graduate, and medical students. It offers hands-on experience in areas like basic and clinical research, cancer epidemiology, cancer control science, and global health.
As an intern, you will work alongside leading researchers, gaining mentorship and professional development tailored to those with limited prior research experience. At the end of the program, you’ll get to present your findings at NIH Summer Poster Day and engage in activities to prepare for advanced academic or professional pursuits. While highly enriching, the internship’s intensive nature and relocation requirements may require significant preparation and adaptability.
13. Summer Internship Program in Biomedical Research – NIH
Location: National Institute of Health
Stipend: Stipend granted based on educational level
Application Deadline: Rolling. Applications close on February 15
Internship Dates: TBD
Eligibility: Students enrolled at least half-time in high school or college who are at least 17 and U.S. citizens or permanent residents
This program provides students with an immersive experience focused on understanding the root causes of human genetic diseases, facilitating the development of innovative methods for detecting, preventing, and treating hereditary and genetic disorders. Alongside hands-on laboratory training and mentorship, you will engage in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Summer Seminar Series, which broadens your exposure to the latest biomedical and clinical research presented by leading scientists.
After the summer program, you can showcase your research during the annual NIH Summer Research Program Poster Day.
14. PURE Internship
Location: MCW Graduate School, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Stipend: No stipend offered
Application Deadline: Apply at least one month before the start of the program
Internship Dates: Mid-August to Mid-May
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who can travel to MCW Milwaukee weekly. Participants should be at least 18 years old, enrolled in a STEM-related major, and able to dedicate at least 8 hours/week. Preference is given to participants with a 3.0 GPA or higher.
The Program for Undergraduate Research (PURE) at the MCW Graduate School is an experiential, unpaid program designed for undergraduate students currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program at an accredited institution. As a selected student, you will be matched with an MCW faculty mentor who will guide you through various aspects of basic, translational, and population research. PURE operates exclusively during the academic year, from mid-August to mid-May.
15. Northwestern Medicine Pre-Med Internship Program
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Stipend: $20/hr (typically)
Application Deadline: January 17
Internship Dates: June 25 – August 19
Eligibility: Students currently enrolled in a doctoral program in clinical or counseling psychology that is accredited by the APA
The Northwestern Medicine Pre-Med Internship Program is an eight-week paid opportunity for undergraduate students aspiring to become physicians. As an intern, you will gain hands-on experience through clinical observation, faculty-sponsored projects, and educational seminars led by leaders from Northwestern Medicine and the Feinberg School of Medicine.
During the program, you will be matched with clinical departments and mentors and will work on projects that integrate academic concepts with real-world healthcare practices. The program includes a lecture series on topics like medical school preparation, specialty selection, and women in medicine. It finally closes with a poster session where you’ll present project outcomes to organizational leaders.
16. Internship at Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Care Institute
Location: Georgetown University, Washington D.C.
Cost/Stipend: Free. No mention of a stipend
Application Deadline: March 31
Internship Dates: Early June to late July or early August
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who are at least 16 years by program start and can commit to the full eight weeks. No previous research experience is needed.
The Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Summer Research Volunteer Program is designed to engage and train future scientists in the fight against cancer. Aimed at high school and undergraduate students, this eight-week program provides hands-on laboratory research experience. As a participant, you will work full-time (40 hours/week) on independent projects under the supervision of research scientists, with opportunities to collaborate with postdoctoral fellows and graduate students. This initiative not only fosters discoveries in cancer research but also encourages students to pursue careers in the biological sciences.
17. Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences (CURE) Summer Program
Location: Longwood Medical Area, Boston, Massachusetts
Stipend: Stipend provided (amount unspecified)
Application Deadline: February 3
Internship Dates: May - July; 7-11 weeks
Eligibility: College freshmen, sophomores, or juniors who live in and around Massachusetts and are at least 16 years old. Participants must be from an underrepresented racial or ethnic group or an economically disadvantaged background.
The Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences (CURE) Program offers a full-time, paid summer research internship lasting 7 to 11 weeks for students aspiring to careers in scientific research. As a participant, you will be paired with a research mentor for an immersive, hands-on experience in cancer research. This unique opportunity allows you to gain new scientific knowledge and technical skills while witnessing the process of scientific discovery and the real-world applications of advancements in the field.
After the program, you will compile your knowledge and research findings into an abstract, which you will present at a final event. This will showcase your contributions and learning throughout the summer.
18. Research Summer Trainee Program – Massachusetts General Hospital
Location: Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
Stipend: $5,000
Application Deadline: January 17
Internship Dates: June 2 – July 24
Eligibility: Undergraduate juniors and seniors, incoming first-year medical students, first-year medical students, graduate students, and post-baccalaureate students. Should be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
This program offers undergraduate students the opportunity to engage in research projects related to clinical medicine and public health. As an intern, you will work alongside experienced researchers, participate in seminars, and present your findings at the end of the program. The internship typically lasts for 10 weeks during the summer.
Students are chosen through a national competition to participate in the Summer Research Training Program (SRTP) at Massachusetts General Hospital. Once selected, you will be assigned to a laboratory, clinical site, or research area focused on health policy or health services. There, you will conduct an original research project under the mentorship of a Mass General investigator. These assignments are tailored to align with your research interests and career goals.
19. Duke University Medical Center Summer Internship Program
Location: Durham, NC, or Washington D.C.
Stipend: Stipend based on education level
Application Deadline: February 17
Internship Dates: May 19 – July 25
Eligibility: College undergrads and graduate students living in or willing to commute to Durham, NC, or Washington DC for the summer
The Duke-Margolis Institute for Health Policy focuses on enhancing health, equity, and the value of healthcare through innovative, evidence-based policy solutions. The Institute conducts health policy analysis and development to tackle significant healthcare challenges while training future leaders to address complex issues with an interdisciplinary approach.
The Margolis Summer Experience Program provides undergraduate and graduate students—around 20 participants from Duke and other institutions—a 10-week internship where they can engage in various health policy projects. As an intern, you will conduct rigorous analyses, perform literature reviews, analyze and visualize data, and contribute to writing project reports, policy briefs, blog posts, and peer-reviewed articles.
20. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Summer Research Program
Location: UCSF Graduate Division, San Francisco, California
Stipend: $5,000
Application Deadline: February 1
Internship Dates: June 1 – August 8
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who are currently enrolled and have completed at least four semesters or six quarters of undergraduate study; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
UC San Francisco offers a dynamic summer research program for undergraduate students in health sciences. As a selected student, you will work closely with UCSF faculty on research projects, engaging in an enriching experience that includes seminars, journal discussions, and professional development activities. The program fosters a cohesive community through lectures and social events, culminating in student presentations where you will receive constructive feedback from UCSF students, postdocs, and faculty, enhancing both your research skills and professional confidence.