15 Paid Internships for College Students

Internships are essential for career success. They provide real-world experience, skill development, and networking opportunities. Paid internships offer the added benefit of earning while you learn. These programs help you explore career paths, apply classroom knowledge, and gain industry insights. Companies across various sectors, from tech to government, offer internships that could kickstart your professional journey. Whether in software engineering, finance, or space exploration, there's an internship for you. Let's explore 15 exciting paid internships in different fields.

1. NIST Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF)

Location: National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD, or Boulder, CO
Stipend: $710 per week
Application Deadline: January 31, 2025
Program Dates: May 19 – Aug 1, 2025 (alternative dates available)
Eligibility: Must be 18+ and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

The NIST Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) allows undergraduates to conduct research in fields like physics, engineering, and cybersecurity at a leading research facility. Participants gain hands-on experience, collaborate with mentors, and attend seminars, developing technical and critical thinking skills. This competitive program offers valuable exposure to STEM careers and contributes to impactful, cutting-edge research.

2. UChicago Data Science Summer Lab

Location: University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Stipend: $600 per week
Application Deadline: Late fall 2024
Program Dates: June to August
Eligibility: Open to high school and undergraduate students interested in data science

The UChicago Data Science Summer Lab offers high school and undergraduate students an opportunity to engage in research in data science, AI, and machine learning. Participants work with researchers on real-world projects, gaining technical skills in programming, data analysis, and model building. The program includes seminars and workshops, fostering collaboration and problem-solving. Students explore diverse fields like healthcare and urban planning, preparing for future careers in data science and AI.

3. Goldman Sachs 2025 Summer Analyst Program

Location: Various locations across the Americas
Stipend: Not specified
Application Deadline: Varies
Program Dates: Summer 2025
Eligibility: Undergraduate students in their penultimate year

The Goldman Sachs 2025 Summer Analyst Program offers undergraduate students hands-on experience in finance and investment banking. Participants will work on real projects in areas like investment management, securities, and financial advisory. The program includes training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, helping students develop skills in financial analysis, problem-solving, and communication. It serves as a valuable stepping stone for those pursuing finance careers.

4. NASA Internship Programs

Location: NASA Centers across the U.S. (including virtual opportunities)
Stipend: Not specified
Application Deadline: Varies by program
Program Dates: Year-round (Fall, Spring, and Summer sessions)
Eligibility: High school, undergraduate, and graduate students

NASA Internship Programs offer students the opportunity to work alongside experts in fields like aerospace engineering, astrophysics, and robotics. Available to high school through graduate-level students, the program provides hands-on experience in research and development. Interns are placed at NASA centers across the U.S. and gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies. The program also offers mentorship, professional development, and networking, preparing students for STEM careers and the future of space exploration.

5. Ford Summer Internship Program

Location: Southeast Michigan with hybrid working options
Stipend: Competitive compensation for full-time work 
Application Deadline: Varies 
Program Dates: 10-12 weeks during the summer 
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students

The Ford Summer Internship Program offers undergraduate and graduate students hands-on experience in various fields such as engineering, marketing, and IT. Interns work on innovative projects related to mobility, sustainability, and technology. The program provides mentorship, career development, and networking, preparing students for future roles at Ford. Participants gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies and business strategies, building critical skills in problem-solving and teamwork.

6. Smithsonian American Art Museum Internships

Location: Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington, D.C.
Stipend: $500
Application Deadline: February 15 for the Summer Program; June 15 for the Advanced-Level Program
Program Dates: Summer Program: early to mid-June for eight weeks; Advanced-Level Program: fall and spring semesters
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students

The Smithsonian American Art Museum offers internships for undergraduate and graduate students in art history, museum studies, and cultural heritage. Interns work on projects such as exhibitions, collections management, and educational programming, gaining hands-on experience in a prestigious institution. The program includes workshops, networking events, and opportunities to develop skills in curation, archival research, and public engagement, preparing students for careers in museums or cultural institutions.

7. Google STEP

Location: Various Google offices in North America.
Stipend: Competitive compensation provided.
Application Deadline: Applications typically open in September of the year prior to the internship and remain open for approximately one month. It's encouraged to apply early, as applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Program Dates: Full-time, 12-week internship between May and August or June and September 2025. Exact dates will be provided later in the process.
Eligibility:
- Completed first or second year of undergraduate studies in computer science or a related field by Summer 2025.
- Programming experience in C++, Java, JavaScript, or Python.
- Completion of 1-2 college computer science courses (AP or IB included).
- Currently attending a university in North America.
- Ability to complete a full-time, 12-week internship between May and August or June and September 2025.

The Google STEP (Student Training in Engineering Program) offers a summer internship for first and second-year undergraduates from historically underrepresented groups in tech. Interns work on software engineering projects, gaining mentorship, coding experience, and professional development. The program builds technical skills in programming, problem-solving, and software development while preparing students for careers in tech

8. Warner Bros. Discovery Internship Opportunities

Location: Various locations globally, including remote options.
Stipend: Paid internship; compensation varies by role and location.
Application Deadline: Varies by internship; refer to the official website for specific dates.
Program Dates: Year-round opportunities, including Summer, Fall, and Spring sessions.
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students actively enrolled in an accredited college or university degree program for the full duration of the internship. Specific requirements may vary by position.

The Warner Bros. Discovery Internship Program offers students hands-on experience in media and entertainment, with opportunities in film production, marketing, journalism, animation, technology, and corporate roles. Interns contribute to real-world projects, gain mentorship, and attend networking events. The program fosters creativity, leadership, and critical thinking, preparing students for careers in media, entertainment, and technology.

9. U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division: Volunteer and Paid Student Internships

Location: Various locations across the U.S., including Washington, D.C., and regional offices.
Stipend: Paid and unpaid opportunities available; compensation depends on the position.
Application Deadline: Varies by internship; refer to the official website for specific dates.
Program Dates: Year-round opportunities, including Fall, Spring, and Summer sessions.
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in accredited academic programs. Additional requirements may apply depending on the specific internship.

The U.S. Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division offers both volunteer and paid internships for undergraduate and graduate students interested in civil rights law. Interns gain hands-on experience with legal research, writing, case preparation, and outreach on issues such as voting rights, housing discrimination, and police reform. The program provides mentorship and professional development while contributing to impactful legal work

10. Morgan Stanley Internship Program (Singapore)

Location: Morgan Stanley, Singapore
Stipend: Paid internship
Application Deadline: Varies by program; check the official website for specific deadlines.
Program Dates: Year-round opportunities, including Summer, Fall, and Spring sessions.
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students. Specific requirements may vary by program.

The Morgan Stanley Internship Program in Singapore offers undergraduate and graduate students hands-on experience in investment banking, wealth management, technology, risk management, and more. Interns work on real financial projects and gain skills in analysis, client service, and strategy. The program provides structured training, mentorship, and networking, helping students build professional skills and expand their understanding of global financial markets. This internship is an ideal opportunity for those pursuing careers in finance.

11. Nike Undergraduate Global Technology Internship

Location: Nike Headquarters, Beaverton, Oregon
Stipend: Paid internship
Application Deadline: Varies by program; refer to the official page for specific details.
Program Dates: Summer
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate students pursuing degrees in computer science, engineering, information technology, or related fields.

The Nike Undergraduate Global Technology Internship offers students a chance to work at the intersection of sports and technology, contributing to projects in software engineering, data analytics, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure. Interns gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, innovative environment, working alongside experts to solve real-world problems. The program includes mentorship, networking, and skill-building sessions, making it an ideal opportunity for students pursuing technology careers with one of the world's leading brands.

12. Los Angeles County Arts Internship Program

Location: Various arts organizations across Los Angeles County
Stipend: $17.28 per hour
Application Deadline: Varies; refer to the official page for details.
Program Dates: Summer
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate students, community college students, or recent graduates who reside or attend school in Los Angeles County.

The Los Angeles County Arts Internship Program offers undergraduate students and recent graduates paid summer internships in arts organizations, including museums, performing arts companies, and nonprofits. Interns gain experience in arts administration, marketing, fundraising, and production while building professional skills and networks. With guidance from industry professionals, participants contribute to the cultural vitality of Los Angeles County and explore career opportunities in the arts. This program prepares students for future careers in the creative industry.

13. UNICEF Internship Program

Location: Various global locations and remote options
Stipend: Provided
Application Deadline: Varies by internship; check the official page for specific deadlines.
Program Dates: Year-round
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as recent graduates.

The UNICEF Internship Program offers students and recent graduates the chance to contribute to global challenges affecting children. Interns work across diverse fields like education, health, and communications in both field offices and headquarters. This program provides hands-on experience in international development, advocacy, and humanitarian aid, while offering mentorship and skill-building workshops. It prepares interns for careers in global development and child advocacy, allowing them to make a tangible impact on children's rights and humanitarian efforts.

14. Spotify Global Summer Internship Program

Location: Various Spotify offices, including London, Stockholm, and New York City
Stipend: Paid internship
Application Deadline: March 15, 2024
Program Dates: 10 weeks, starting June 10, 2024
Eligibility: Open to students graduating in 2024 or 2025, pursuing degrees in relevant fields.

Spotify's Summer Internship Program offers students hands-on experience in areas like software engineering, marketing, and product management. Interns collaborate on real-world projects, contributing to global products and services. The program includes mentorship, networking, and company events, promoting both professional and personal growth. Interns are also considered for full-time roles after graduation, making it a valuable opportunity for students interested in music streaming and digital innovation.

15. The New York Times Company Summer Internship Program

Location: New York City
Fee: Paid internship (competitive rates)
Application Deadline: Varies by department
Program Dates: 10-week program, typically starting in early June
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students, especially those interested in journalism, digital media, technology, and business.

The New York Times Company's Summer Internship Program offers students a chance to work across departments such as reporting, data journalism, engineering, and product design. Interns gain hands-on experience, contribute to impactful projects, and participate in professional development activities. The program fosters creativity, career growth, and exposure to the evolving media industry. Competitive candidates may also be considered for future full-time roles.


Looking for an immersive internship experience?
Check out Ladder Internships!

Ladder Internships is a selective, virtual internship program that connects students with startups and nonprofits from industries around the world! As part of the internship, you will work on real-world projects that are important to the startup and present your work at the end of the internship. You will also be mentored by their manager from the startup as well as a Ladder Coach. Apply now!

Dhruva Bhat

Dhruva Bhat is one of the co-founders of Ladder, and a Harvard College graduate. Dhruva founded Ladder Internships as a DPhil candidate and Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University, with a vision to bridge the gap between ambitious students and real-world startup experiences.

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