15 Part Time Internships for College Students
Taking on an internship during your college years is one of the most effective ways to bridge the gap between classroom theory and the real world, allowing you to gain practical experience directly in the field of your choice. This hands-on opportunity not only makes a remarkably solid addition to your resume but also enhances your overall professional profile, instantly improving your long-term employability with future hiring managers. As you develop these crucial industry skills, you will also be building valuable connections with professionals who can act as mentors or open doors for full-time roles after graduation. Best of all, if a traditional on-site role doesn't fit your schedule or budget, you can always take advantage of online internships, which provide a highly accessible and affordable option to secure all these career-building benefits right from your laptop.
If you think remote/online internships are a better fit for you, then you can check out paid programs here! And if you’re worried about having less experience, check out our blog here!
Why should I do a part-time internship in college?
While traditional (on-site)or online (remote), more students are choosing to do the majority of their internships on a part-time basis. It offers them flexibility in terms of balancing their academic commitments with obtaining valuable work experience. Recent advances in technology have made it even easier and less expensive for students to intern virtually without having to relocate or give up their academic performance.
This curated list provides 15 of the best part-time internships for college students that will allow for 20 hours per week of work or less. Each internship opportunity has been selected based on the level of prestige, quality, and ability to network. If you intend to create a successful career for yourself early on, this list is a good place to start.
Quick Look
15 part-time internships total spanning business, international relations, healthcare, mental health advocacy, finance, and STEM research, hosted by organizations including UNICEF, the OECD, the Council on Foreign Relations, and the American Heart Association
Programs span a wide pay range, from unpaid options like the Ladder Internship Program and NAMI HelpLine Intern to paid roles like the OECD's €1,000 monthly stipend and the American Heart Association's $23 per hour
Standout programs include the Council on Foreign Relations internship, which offers direct access to CFR fellows and global policy events, and the Woodrow Wilson Center, which pairs interns one-on-one with visiting scholars
Most programs offer genuine flexibility with hours ranging from 5 to 20 per week, and several, including Ladder Internships, Intern Abroad HQ, and The Intern Group, are fully remote and open to students anywhere
Deadlines vary widely, with most programs on rolling admissions, though the Council on Foreign Relations has a fixed deadline of July 9 for its fall term
1. International University of Applied Sciences (IU), Berlin, Germany
Location: Online and on-campus
Cost/Stipend: On-Campus: €11,000 – €15,000 per year; Online: €3,000 – €7,000 per year (varies by program and study format) / €9–€20 per hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size varies widely based on the
program and delivery method
Dates: Summer and Winter Semesters
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: High school completion or equivalent with a minimum 2.5 GPA; IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL 80+, Duolingo 95+, or PTE for English proficiency
A part-time job can greatly support your financial needs while studying for higher education in Germany. As a student at IU, you will benefit from a flexible style of learning through blended online and in-class educational sessions. As an international student in Germany, you may work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) or full-time (up to 40 hours per week) during the semester breaks. During the internship, you will obtain hands-on experience in the fields of Business, IT, Engineering, or Health Sciences, all of which provide broad opportunities to secure employment globally.
2. Ladder Internship Program
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Cost varies depending on the program type; financial aid is available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 10–25%; 70–100 students per cohort
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter
Application Deadline: Varies; Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November).
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduates, and gap year students who can work for 10- 20 hours/week for 8-12 weeks.
The Ladder Internship Program gives you a remote opportunity to work with startups across AI, software engineering, finance, media, health tech, and environmental science. Over eight weeks, you will define project deliverables, attend weekly mentorship meetings, analyze real data, and deliver a final presentation. Through these hands-on tasks, you will develop essential skills in professional communication, data analysis, and project management. A unique feature of the program is its dual-mentorship model, pairing you with both a Ladder coach and an experienced startup founder. Because it requires just five to ten hours weekly, you can easily participate in this internship part-time alongside school. Apply now!
3. Intern Abroad HQ – Remote Internships
Location: Remote/virtual
Cost/Stipend: $1,099–$1,799 program fee depending on internship length (100, 250, or 350 hours) / No stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not competitive; 52+ remote internship programs hosted across 10 countries
Dates: Rolling, year-round start dates; part-time (under 20 hours/week) schedules run approximately 5 weeks (100 hours), 12 weeks (250 hours), or 17 weeks (350 hours) depending on the option chosen
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Current college/university students; English language proficiency; reliable computer and internet access
In this program, you'll be matched with an international host organization in a career field of your choosing, working under 20 hours per week on real remote projects such as digital marketing campaigns, business research, data analysis, content creation, or NGO support, depending on your placement. Throughout the internship, you'll use everyday workplace technology like video conferencing, cloud-based document sharing, and project management tools to collaborate with your supervisor and team from a different country. Intern Abroad HQ's Experiential Learning Curriculum guides you through structured reflection and professional-development exercises alongside your work. You'll finish with a portfolio, an international reference letter, and the option to earn academic credit.
4. The Intern Group Part-Time Internships
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: $1,990 –$2,490 depending on the duration; need-based and merit-based aid, discounts, and scholarships are available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; 2,000+ participants globally each year
Dates: Year-round; 4 to 24 weeks (flexible)
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Must be 16 years or older, a current college student or recent graduate, and possess a strong level of English proficiency
The Intern Group’s Part-Time internships offer flexible remote placements where participants can work 10–20 hours per week alongside their studies or other commitments. You are matched with global companies and gain hands-on experience in their chosen field while working in fully remote teams. The program emphasizes career development through mentorship, networking, and exposure to industry professionals. You also receive career coaching, including resume support and interview preparation. Overall, it’s designed to build practical skills and help interns transition smoothly into full-time roles.
5. UNICEF Internship Programme
Location: Global (USA, UK, Europe, and other international offices; some remote roles available)
Stipend: Paid monthly, amount not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; cohort size varies continuously based on the needs of individual offices
Dates: 6 to 26 weeks (flexible; part-time or full-time depending on role)
Application Deadline: Rolling (varies by position)
Eligibility: Minimum 18 years old, enrolled in a degree program (or graduated within the past two years), proficient in English/French/Spanish, strong academics, and no immediate relatives at UNICEF
The UNICEF Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the humanitarian and development sector. You work on real projects such as research, communications, and data management, depending on the office and role. The program provides a monthly stipend and may cover travel-related expenses when funding is available. While many roles are full-time, some positions offer part-time or flexible arrangements, making them suitable for students. Overall, it’s a highly prestigious global internship that builds strong professional and cross-cultural experience.
6. OECD Internships
Location: Paris (HQ) + global offices (Berlin, Tokyo, Washington DC, etc.; some remote flexibility)
Cost/Stipend: €1,000 per month
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; approximately 450–700 interns
Dates: 1 to 6 months (renewable up to 12 months)
Application Deadline: Rolling applications
Eligibility: Students (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) enrolled in relevant fields; remain enrolled as a student for the entire duration of the internship; strong English/French skills
The OECD Internship Programme offers students the opportunity to work on policy research, analysis, and global economic issues in an international environment. You contribute to real projects across areas like finance, environment, AI, and public policy while collaborating with experts from 38+ countries. The program provides a monthly stipend, training opportunities, and access to a strong professional network. While many roles are full-time, flexible and part-time arrangements (including remote work) may be available depending on the team. Overall, it’s a highly respected internship for those interested in global policy, economics, and international development.
7. Woodrow Wilson Center – Internships
Location: Washington, D.C.
Stipend: Varies as per role
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; roughly 80–90 interns
Dates: Internships generally run about 3–4 months, aligned with fall, spring, and summer academic terms
Application Deadline: Varies as per role
Eligibility: Current undergraduate students; a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is expected
As a Wilson Center intern, you contribute to nonpartisan policy research and public programming out of the Center's Washington, D.C. headquarters. If placed as a Research Assistant, you work one-on-one with a visiting scholar, searching library and online databases, compiling bibliographies, summarizing source materials, and helping draft literature reviews and analysis for books or reports. Staff Assistant placements support the Center's program and press offices with conference planning, publication production, outreach materials, and administrative coordination. Along the way, you build research, writing, and editing skills, and gain exposure to nonpartisan policy analysis. You can also attend the Center's public panels and events, and network with scholars, diplomats, and former officials in residence.
8. University of Sussex Brighton – Online Global Summer Internship Programme
Location: Online
Stipend: £13.45 per hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; cohort size not disclosed
Dates: 4 weeks (30 hrs/week) or 6 weeks (20 hrs/week); start dates are July 20 or August 3
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: University of Sussex 2nd, 3rd, and final-year undergraduate students; cannot simultaneously accept the Career Lab UK Summer Internship or the Junior Research Associate scheme
The Online Global Summer Internship Programme offers students the chance to gain international work experience remotely with companies across 195+ countries. You are matched with organizations in fields like business, tech, healthcare, and sustainability, and work on real-world projects. The program includes structured training, career coaching, and weekly mentorship support. You also receive a bursary and access to a global professional network. With a part-time option of 20 hours per week, it’s a flexible and highly accessible international internship opportunity.
9. Capital Placement Part-time Online Internship Program
Location: Remote (Companies based in London, New York, Singapore)
Cost/Stipend: £1,550; scholarships are available / Limited paid opportunities available depending on the host company
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size not specified
Dates: 6 weeks to 6 months (flexible)
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Current university students (with at least one year of bachelor's study completed) and recent graduates; requires fluency in written and spoken English, strong communication skills, a stable internet connection, and the ability to commit 5 to 25 hours per week
The Capital Placement Part-time Online Internship Program is designed for students who want to gain global work experience while studying, with a flexible commitment of 5–20 hours per week. You are matched with companies across 25+ industries, including finance, marketing, tech, and consulting, and work remotely with international teams. It also includes structured career support such as CV enhancement, one-on-one coaching, and guidance from a dedicated program advisor. A key highlight is the guaranteed internship placement, ensuring students don’t have to compete endlessly for roles. Additionally, interns receive a host company reference and may qualify for a £500 scholarship toward future international internship programs in cities like London, New York, or Singapore.
10. American Heart Association’s (AHA) – Interns of Impact Program
Location: Both Remote and Hybrid
Stipend: $23 per hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; cohort size varies by role and department
Dates: Varies by semester
Application Deadline: Varies by role and term
Eligibility: Currently enrolled college students (many roles strongly prefer college Seniors or Graduate/Master's students depending on the specific department); must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship; requires a reliable WiFi connection
The American Heart Association’s Intern of Impact Program offers flexible part-time internships focused on health, community impact, and nonprofit work. In this internship, you contribute to meaningful projects while balancing academics, thanks to remote and hybrid options. The program includes professional development sessions, career coaching, and access to extensive learning resources through HeartU. You also build strong networks through nationwide connections and alumni engagement. Overall, it’s a mission-driven internship ideal for students interested in healthcare, public service, and nonprofit careers.
11. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine Intern
Location: Remote (USA)
Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size not specified
Dates: 4 months (part-time 8 hrs/week)
Application Deadline: Rolling applications
Eligibility: College students; 20+ years old; interest or experience in mental health
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine Internship is a role designed for college students, typically those studying psychology, social work, public health, or related fields, to gain hands-on experience in mental health advocacy and peer support. You work around 8 hours per week, providing emotional support, resources, and guidance after completing structured training. The program focuses on developing skills like empathy, active listening, and crisis response. You receive ongoing coaching and mentorship from experienced staff. Overall, it’s a meaningful, impact-driven internship ideal for students interested in psychology, counseling, or social work.
12. Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) – Internship Program
Location: New York, NY, or Washington, DC office (hybrid) or fully remote
Stipend: Paid hourly, rate not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; exact cohort size not specified
Dates: Mid-September – Mid-December
Application Deadline: July 9
Eligibility: Undergraduate or graduate student with a major in international relations, political science, economics, or a related field; completed the equivalent of four semesters of college coursework by the internship start; legal right to work in the United States
In this internship, you are placed on a CFR team such as the Studies Program, Digital Content, or Foreign Affairs magazine. Daily work centers on research assistance, editing and writing, event coordination, and departmental support alongside CFR fellows and staff. You use CFR's internal research databases and office systems to prepare briefing materials for ongoing policy projects. Through the Intern Professional Development program, you build writing, editing, research, and program-planning skills in structured workshops. You attend CFR meetings and events featuring policymakers and global experts, a level of access uncommon in most internships.
13. CaskX Whiskey Investment Specialist Intern
Location: Beverly Hills, California, USA (in-person)
Stipend: $18 – $18.50/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; small team
Dates: Flexible (part-time internship; hours based on availability)
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: College students ideally from a Business Administration, Event Management, Marketing, or a related field
The Whiskey Investment Specialist Intern role at CaskX is a paid, part-time position tailored for college students interested in the intersection of finance, sales, and alternative assets. The role introduces students to the niche market of investing in bourbon and scotch whiskey barrels. You support event planning, office operations, and marketing initiatives, including social media and PR activities. The role provides exposure to multiple business functions in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment. Students develop practical skills in organization, communication, and business operations. Overall, it’s a strong opportunity for those interested in finance, marketing, or luxury investment sectors.
14. The Pathway Initiative – STEM Research Internship
Location: Boston, Massachusetts, USA (hybrid)
Stipend: $15/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size not specified
Dates: 6 weeks (July – August); 10 weeks (Fall and Spring)
Application Deadline: Varies by term
Eligibility: College students at least 18 years old; minimum 3.5 GPA
This STEM Research Internship offers hands-on experience in biomedical research with a part-time schedule of up to 19.5 hours per week. You engage in research projects, leadership workshops, and mentorship sessions focused on healthcare and life sciences. The program also includes career coaching, financial literacy training, and networking opportunities with professionals. Participants gain practical skills in critical thinking, communication, and scientific research. Overall, it’s a strong early-career opportunity for students interested in medicine, biotechnology, or STEM fields.
15. Center for Strategic & International Studies – Internship Program
Location: Washington, D.C.
Stipend: $18 per hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size varies by program and semester
Dates: Semester-based cycles — Spring (January–May), Summer (June–August), and Fall (September–December); roughly four months with possible extension to six months at program discretion
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Undergraduate students, graduate students, and recent graduates; completed at least two years of undergraduate coursework; U.S. work authorization
In this program, you support research and operations within one of the think tank's programs spanning defense, security, economics, or global development. You'll conduct background research, draft memos and policy briefs, fact-check citations, and help prepare materials for expert briefings and public events. You'll also work with the Microsoft Office Suite, internal research databases, and citation-formatting tools while coordinating with program managers and research associates. Throughout the term, you'll complete structured leadership programming through the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy, building skills in policy analysis, public speaking, and global affairs discussion. This blend of applied research and formal leadership training distinguishes CSIS internships among Washington think tanks.
Questions Students Often Ask About These Programs
1. I want international experience, but I am not sure if I should go the fully remote route or look for something in person. Which is better?
Both paths offer real value, so it comes down to your priorities. Fully remote programs like Intern Abroad HQ, The Intern Group, and the University of Sussex's Online Global Summer Internship Programme let you work with international teams from anywhere, which is ideal if relocating is not realistic for you right now. In person or hybrid options, like the OECD's Paris headquarters or UNICEF's global offices, offer a more immersive experience and in person networking, but usually come with more competitive eligibility requirements and location constraints.
2. Several of these programs are unpaid or require a program fee. How do I know if a part-time internship is worth the cost?
Look closely at what you are getting beyond the internship itself. Programs like The Intern Group and Capital Placement charge a fee, but that fee typically includes structured mentorship, career coaching, and guaranteed placement, which can be valuable if you are earlier in your search and want more support. Free options like Ladder Internships or the NAMI HelpLine Intern role offer strong hands on experience without the upfront cost, so weigh how much guidance and structure you want against your budget.
3. I am not majoring in business or finance. Are there part-time internships on this list that fit other fields?
Yes, this list covers a wide range of interests. If you are drawn to healthcare or public health, the American Heart Association and NAMI HelpLine roles are strong fits. If global affairs or policy interest you, the OECD, UNICEF, CFR, and Woodrow Wilson Center all offer relevant placements. Students interested in STEM can look at the Pathway Initiative's biomedical research internship, and Ladder Internships matches you to a startup based on your own interests regardless of your major.