12 Internships for Software Engineering Students
Internships are valuable for college students, serving as a bridge between academic learning and the professional world. They help strengthen resumes and create profiles that stand out to potential employers. These experiences allow you to apply classroom knowledge to real-world projects, gaining practical insights into your field. Interns also develop key skills and learn about workplace dynamics and industry standards.
For students pursuing software engineering, internships provide hands-on experience with live projects, collaboration with professionals, and exposure to industry tools and technologies. This experience enhances employability by building confidence and expertise, making you more competitive in the job market. Internships also offer valuable networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers. Overall, they play an important role in your growth and future career success.
Here are 12 internships for software engineering students to consider:
1. Ladder Internships - Engineering Track
Cost: $2490 (Financial Aid Available)
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: November 24, 2024 (for the Winter Cohort)
Program Start: December 16, 2024
Duration: 5-10 hours/week, 8 weeks
Eligibility: Open to high school students, undergraduates, and gap year students.
The Ladder Internship is a selective program offering virtual hands-on experience in engineering. Participants collaborate with startups and nonprofits worldwide, working on innovative engineering projects.
Interns will tackle real-world tasks such as software development, product design, and problem-solving across sectors like technology, machine learning, and AI. The program includes startups from the U.S., Asia, and Europe, providing a global perspective on engineering challenges and solutions.
This immersive experience allows you to apply technical skills while gaining insights into the fast-paced world of engineering startups, preparing you for future careers in engineering and technology
2. Google Software Engineering PhD Internship, 2025
Location: Various U.S. locations, including Mountain View, CA; Atlanta, GA; Austin, TX, and more.
Cost: Paid
Application Deadline: February 28, 2025 (rolling basis, may close earlier)
Internship Dates: Summer 2025
Eligibility: Open to penultimate-year PhD students in Computer Science or related technical fields, with U.S. work authorization.
Google’s Software Engineering PhD Internship offers students pursuing advanced degrees the chance to work on impactful engineering projects that will shape the future of technology. Interns collaborate with world-class engineers to solve complex problems in fields such as algorithms, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and systems design.
This 12-week, full-time internship allows you to contribute to real-world products and research, gaining hands-on experience with coding languages like C/C++, Java, and Python. The program is highly selective, seeking candidates with strong skills in data structures, algorithms, and software design.
Interns will be based at one of Google’s U.S. locations and must be available to work full-time. Applicants should submit an updated CV and an unofficial or official transcript. Early application is encouraged, as positions may fill before the deadline, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis.
This internship is a great opportunity for PhD students to deepen their software development expertise while collaborating on groundbreaking projects in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
3. Explore Microsoft Internship Program, 2025
Location: Various U.S. locations
Cost: Paid
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Internship Dates: Summer 2025
Eligibility: Open to first- and second-year college students majoring in technical fields such as Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Technology, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, and Cybersecurity, who are enrolled in a bachelor’s program in the U.S., Canada, or Mexico. Special encouragement is given to students from underrepresented groups.
The Explore Microsoft program is a 12-week summer internship designed for early college students to gain hands-on experience in software development. It offers a great opportunity for first- and second-year students to explore various technical roles and learn about the product development cycle. The program focuses on three core phases: Design, Build, and Quality, allowing interns to work on real-world projects under the mentorship of experienced professionals.
Interns will collaborate in teams with other Explore interns, learning through team-based projects and activities. In addition to technical development, you will participate in community-building, networking events, and mentorship opportunities to foster both personal and professional growth.
Microsoft encourages applications from individuals underrepresented in engineering and computer science fields, including women, Black, Hispanic/Latinx, Native American, and LGBTQIA+ students, as well as those with disabilities.
This internship provides valuable early-career experience and insight into the world of software engineering at one of the largest tech companies, helping you refine your skills and explore potential career paths in technology.
4. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)
Location: Various Department of Navy (DoN) laboratories across the U.S.
Cost: Stipend provided
Application Deadline: November 1, 2024
Internship Dates: Summer 2025 (8 weeks)
Eligibility: Open to high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a strong academic background in STEM fields.
The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) offers high school students the chance to engage in real-world Naval research. Over eight weeks in the summer, you will work alongside top scientists and engineers in Department of Navy (DoN) laboratories, gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge Naval technology and research.
This competitive program places around 300 students in over 38 Navy labs nationwide, allowing you to explore STEM fields like robotics, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and materials science. In addition to contributing to important research projects, you will receive mentorship from leading professionals.
The selection process considers academic achievements, personal statements, recommendations, and career interests. Accepted students receive a stipend and may gain future career opportunities within the Department of Navy. Many SEAP alumni have gone on to pursue careers in Naval research.
SEAP is a great opportunity for high school students seeking hands-on experience in a dynamic research environment. You must choose a preferred lab, submit materials by November 1st, and expect award decisions between January and March.
5. Software Engineering Internship in Bellevue, WA
Location: Bellevue, WA (In-person)
Cost: Paid
Application Deadline: TBD
Internship Dates: Summer 2025 (8 weeks)
Eligibility: Open to high school students in the Greater Seattle area with a cumulative GPA of 3.8/4.0 or higher, and at least basic experience in a mainstream programming language (e.g., JavaScript, Java, C/C++, PHP, .NET).
This 8-week software engineering internship provides high school students in the Greater Seattle area with the opportunity to work on real-world technical challenges. You will be involved in projects such as frontend web development, infrastructure and content management, and mobile development for Android and iOS platforms.
The program focuses on solving navigation challenges through a real-time navigation platform, giving you hands-on experience with industry-level software engineering tasks. You will receive mentorship from professionals, educators, and community leaders to help you navigate a professional work environment.
You will take responsibility for your own projects while collaborating within teams. Some projects may involve research, such as customer usage analysis, competitor comparisons, or market outreach, depending on the company's needs.
This internship is a great opportunity if you’re passionate about technology and want to gain practical software engineering experience. You must be available to work 40 hours per week, with flexible scheduling options.
6. Experiences in Research (EinR) Internship
Location: Berkeley Lab, Northern California (In-person)
Cost: Paid ($500 per week)
Application Deadline: Applications open in February 2025. Deadline TBA.
Internship Dates: June 16 – July 25, 2025
Eligibility: Current 10th, 11th, and 12th-grade students from Northern California, at least 16 years old by June 16, 2025. Students must live within a 20-mile radius of Berkeley Lab for hybrid or in-person projects.
The Experiences in Research (EinR) program offers high school students the chance to engage in hands-on STEM research at Berkeley Lab. Over six weeks, you will work on innovative projects alongside experts in areas such as administration, science communication, data science, and experimental research.
You will be expected to commit 30-35 hours per week to projects tailored to your interests. While you can indicate your preferences during the application, direct communication with mentors before submission is not allowed. This program is well-suited for self-motivated students who are eager to gain practical experience in STEM careers.
In addition to project work, you will receive professional mentorship to enhance your technical skills and gain valuable insights into career opportunities in STEM. For those seeking an introductory STEM experience, Berkeley Lab also offers the Director’s Apprenticeship Program.
7. Yale ITS High School Internship Program
Location: Yale University, New Haven, CT (In-person)
Cost: Paid
Application Deadline: Nominated by schools (No direct application)
Internship Dates: Six weeks during summer 2025
Eligibility: Open to high school students residing in New Haven, West Haven, or Orange, Connecticut, and attending a participating high school
The Yale ITS High School Internship Program provides paid, hands-on learning opportunities for local high school students interested in information technology. Over six weeks, you will collaborate with Yale's Information Technology Services team, gaining exposure to IT careers and contributing to the university's operations.
You will receive on-the-job training and participate in career-building workshops, helping you explore potential technology careers and develop valuable skills. The program also offers insights into university life, fostering both professional and personal growth.
You will work closely with managers on real IT projects. Students are nominated by their schools, so check with your teachers or guidance counselors to see if your school participates. If selected, you will be interviewed by Yale ITS managers and matched with roles that align with your interests and career goals.
8. SPARK Data Engineering and AI Internship
Location: Remote. Available for regular meetings 9AM-6PM EST. Internship offered by start-up based in Washington, DC
Hours per Week: 30+
Duration: 8-10 weeks
Stipend: Unpaid
Application Deadline: Applications open in March/April 2025 for Summer 2025
Eligibility: Open to U.S. high school students in grades 10-12. International students and U.S. citizens living outside the USA are not eligible
This mentorship program offers high school students the opportunity to apply technical skills in AI/ML, data pipelines, and predictive analytics to solve real-world industry challenges. You will focus on verifying and validating structured and unstructured data from various sources, developing practical solutions to these problems.
The program emphasizes building data engineering pipelines and working with machine learning models. You will gain hands-on experience with data extraction, verification, and predictive analytics. Ideal candidates have strong technical skills, an interest in data analysis, and familiarity with programming languages like Python or Java. While prior experience with cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure) is helpful, it is not required.
You will work approximately 30 hours per week and collaborate closely with mentors during scheduled meetings. This intensive, research-oriented experience encourages independent thinking and problem-solving, with regular mentor meetings providing guidance and feedback throughout the project.
9. GRASP High School Internships – Summer 2024
Location: Onsite only (no virtual internships available)
Duration: Minimum 6 weeks (varies by internship)
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors (12th grade)
Application Process: High school students are encouraged to directly contact GRASP faculty members whose research aligns with their interests.
GRASP Lab offers internships for rising high school seniors interested in robotics and perception systems research. Interns are selected on a case-by-case basis by individual faculty members, depending on their availability and the current health situation. The internship requires a minimum commitment of six weeks, though the duration may vary based on the project. You will need to demonstrate professionalism, meet deadlines, and contribute meaningfully to assigned tasks.
Women, underrepresented minorities—including Black, Hispanic, Native American, and Alaskan students—first-generation college students, and those from low-income backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. To strengthen your application, you should include a cover letter outlining your research interests, specifying faculty members you wish to work with, and describing your most challenging academic project and future career plans. Additional materials may include letters of recommendation, a high school transcript, a resume, and examples of science writing (e.g., lab reports). You may also submit 1-3 references from adults over 21.
While virtual internships are not available, onsite internships offer a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on research experience at the GRASP Lab. Due to limited availability, you should prepare for a competitive selection process and contact faculty early.
Location: University of Nebraska at Omaha College of Information Science & Technology
Duration: 8 weeks
Hours per Week: 20 hours (On-site, Monday-Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm)
Stipend: Partially funded by a grant from the Bill and Ruth Scott Foundation
Application Deadline: N/A
Internship Dates: June – July 2025 expectedly.
Eligibility: High school students interested in IT and scientific research
The University of Nebraska at Omaha College of Information Science & Technology offers a Summer High School Internship Program that provides students with a hands-on experience in scientific research and development activities. This program is partially funded by a grant from the Bill and Ruth Scott Foundation, highlighting the role of education and community support in nurturing future talent.
Over the eight-week program, you will work on various IT-related projects, learning new concepts, tools, and skills essential for careers in technology. You will have the opportunity to tackle real research and development challenges, gaining insights into problem-solving and the practical applications of your work.
You will be expected to commit 20 hours per week, completing your hours on-site between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. To ensure effective progress, you will need to submit weekly informal progress reports, a formal mid-internship report by June 28, and deliver a final presentation on July 26, 2024. Attendance at all reporting and presentation days is mandatory, helping you develop communication and collaboration skills.
This internship program offers a great opportunity for high school students to explore careers in information technology while building valuable skills in a supportive and engaging environment.
11. Boston University Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) Program
Location: Boston University, Boston, MA (On-site)
Cost: Paid
Application Deadline: To be announced (Applications open December 15)
Program Dates:
- Residential: June 29 – August 8
- Commuter: June 30 – August 8
Eligibility: Open to U.S. students currently in their junior year of high school
The RISE program at Boston University offers high school juniors the chance to participate in hands-on laboratory research. Over six weeks, you will work closely with faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students on research projects in fields such as astronomy, biology, biomedical engineering, chemistry, computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, medical laboratory research, neuroscience, physics, psychology, and public health.
You will dedicate 40 hours per week to research, developing technical and analytical skills while gaining insight into the scientific process. Weekly workshops with Practicum students will help you further enhance your academic and professional skills. The program concludes with a Poster Symposium, where you will present your research findings.
Location: Online
Cost: Free to apply and participate
Application Deadline: Applications for Summer 2025 will open in January 2025
Program Dates: Two weeks during summer 2025 (specific dates TBA)
Eligibility: Open to high school students entering grades 9-12 in Fall 2025; must be at least 14 years old by the start of the program
The Stanford Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging (AIMI) is offering its annual Summer Research Internship for high school students interested in exploring AI in healthcare. This two-week online internship introduces you to the technical and clinical aspects of AI in medicine through activities like technical lectures, mentoring sessions with Stanford researchers, group research projects, and networking opportunities.
You will also have the chance to attend Virtual Career Lunch and Learn sessions, where guest speakers from academia, industry, non-profits, and government sectors will share their insights.
For students seeking more in-depth engagement, there may be an opportunity for an extended independent research internship. Those who attend all sessions will receive a Certificate of Completion. Additionally, this year, Stanford AIMI will host an AI in Medicine Bootcamp for high school students.
Looking for an immersive internship experience?
Check out Ladder Internships.
Ladder Internships is a selective, virtual program where you’ll have the chance to work with startups and nonprofits from around the world! These startups span a variety of industries, including computer science, tech, and engineering. During your internship, you’ll work on a meaningful, real-world project that directly contributes to the startup’s needs, and you’ll present your work at the end of the program.
You’ll collaborate closely with your manager from the startup and also receive guidance from a Ladder Coach throughout your experience. Ready to take the next step? Apply now!