99+ Ways on How to Get an Internship in High School : The Complete 2025 Handbook
Wondering how to get an internship in high school? In 2025, how to get an internship in high school is not just an option but a smart strategy for ambitious students who want to explore careers early. Internships are no longer limited to college students; knowing how to get an internship in high school helps teens gain real-world experience, hands-on learning, and exposure to professional environments while still in the classroom. Whether you are interested in engineering, healthcare, business, technology, or the arts, understanding how to get an internship in high school gives you an edge in developing critical skills for the future. By learning how to get an internship in high school, you not only boost your resume but also build confidence, expand your network, and gain clarity about your passions. For motivated teens, how to get an internship in high school is one of the best ways to prepare for college, careers, and lifelong success.
How To Get An Internship In High School
Why You Should Get an Internship in High School
Learning how to get an internship in high school is one of the smartest steps for students. With options in STEM, business, healthcare, law, and the arts, knowing how to get an internship in high school gives teens an early advantage. These programs let you explore careers, gain real skills, and stand out in college and job applications. Here is why students should learn how to get an internship in high school :
Early career exploration with how to get an internship in high school : Students explore fields like medicine, engineering, or media while still in school. Learning how to get an internship in high school helps you discover interests and plan your future.
Competitive edge through how to get an internship in high school : Students who learn how to get an internship in high school stand out on resumes and college applications. It shows ambition and readiness for challenges.
Skill-building from how to get an internship in high school : Internships teach teamwork, problem-solving, and communication. Knowing how to get an internship in high school helps you build real skills outside the classroom.
Confidence from how to get an internship in high school : Experience in real workplaces gives students confidence. How to get an internship in high school prepares you to take on bigger opportunities.
Proof of initiative with how to get an internship in high school : Employers and universities respect students who take action. Showing that you know how to get an internship in high school proves you are motivated and resourceful.
Learning how to get an internship in high school helps you gain clarity, open doors, and prepare for long-term success.
How To Get An Internship In High School
99+ Tips to Secure a High School Internship in 2025
1. Identify Your Interests
Pinpoint fields like STEM, arts, or business that excite you to find internships that align with your passions.
Action: Make a list of your favorite subjects or hobbies to guide your search.
2. Set Clear Goals
Define what you want to gain—skills, experience, or career clarity—to guide your internship search.
Action: Write down specific objectives, like learning coding or exploring medicine.
3. Assess Your Skills
List your strengths, like coding or writing, to match them with internship requirements.
Action: Create a skills inventory to identify what you can offer.
4. Research Career Paths
Explore job roles in your field of interest to understand what skills internships prioritize.
Action: Read job descriptions on sites like LinkedIn to learn about required skills.
5. Create a Schedule
Plan your time to balance school, activities, and internship applications effectively.
Action: Use a calendar to allocate time for research and applications.
6. Build a Resume Early
Start a simple resume with school projects, clubs, and volunteer work to showcase your abilities.
Action: Draft a one-page resume using a template from Canva or Google Docs.
7. Learn Basic Tech Skills
Familiarize yourself with tools like Google Docs or basic coding to stand out in applications.
Action: Take a free online course on platforms like Codecademy.
8. Join School Clubs
Participate in relevant clubs (e.g., robotics or debate) to build skills and show commitment.
Action: Join a club related to your internship field this semester.
9. Volunteer Locally
Gain experience through community service to enhance your resume and demonstrate initiative.
Action: Volunteer at a local nonprofit or community center.
10. Take Relevant Courses
Enroll in online courses (e.g., Coursera) to gain skills relevant to your target internship.
Action: Complete a free course in your field, like Python for tech internships.
11. Use Online Platforms
Explore sites like TeenLife for internship listings across various fields.
Action: Visit TeenLife to browse opportunities.
12. Check University Programs
Look for university-based internships like MIT’s RSI or Stanford’s SIMR for research opportunities.
Action: Search university websites for high school programs.
13. Explore Government Programs
Search for internships at NASA, NIH, or the Department of State for structured opportunities.
Action: Check NASA STEM for openings.
14. Investigate Nonprofits
Find internships at nonprofits via Idealist for community-focused roles.
Action: Browse Idealist for nonprofit internships.
15. Look Locally
Check local businesses, hospitals, or museums for regional internship programs.
Action: Contact local organizations to inquire about opportunities.
16. Review Eligibility
Ensure you meet age, grade, or location requirements before applying to save time.
Action: Read program requirements carefully before applying.
17. Note Deadlines
Track application deadlines, as many programs close as early as November or January.
Action: Create a calendar with all deadlines.
18. Compare Paid vs. Unpaid
Weigh the benefits of paid (e.g., Bank of America) versus unpaid internships based on your needs.
Action: List pros and cons of paid and unpaid programs.
19. Explore Virtual Options
Consider virtual internships like Forage or Polygence for flexibility and accessibility.
Action: Search for virtual internships on Forage.
20. Read Program Reviews
Research past participants’ experiences to ensure the internship aligns with your goals.
Action: Look for reviews on program websites or forums.
21. Tailor Your Resume
Customize your resume to highlight skills relevant to each specific internship.
Action: Adjust your resume for each application to match job requirements.
22. Write a Strong Cover Letter
Craft a cover letter that explains your passion and fit for the internship.
Action: Write a draft cover letter and get feedback from a teacher.
23. Highlight Achievements
Include awards, projects, or leadership roles to make your application stand out.
Action: List key achievements on your resume.
24. Keep Resume Concise
Limit your resume to one page, focusing on the most relevant experiences.
Action: Edit your resume to fit one page.
25. Proofread Applications
Double-check for typos and errors to ensure a professional submission.
Action: Use tools like Grammarly to review your materials.
26. Secure Recommendations
Ask teachers or mentors for letters of recommendation early to meet deadlines.
Action: Request letters at least a month before deadlines.
27. Choose Relevant Recommenders
Select recommenders who know your skills in the internship’s field (e.g., science teacher for STEM).
Action: Identify teachers familiar with your relevant work.
28. Write a Compelling Essay
Use essays to share your story and enthusiasm for the internship’s focus.
Action: Draft an essay highlighting your passion for the field.
29. Follow Application Instructions
Adhere strictly to guidelines, like file formats or word limits, to avoid rejection.
Action: Review instructions twice before submitting.
30. Apply to Multiple Programs
Submit applications to several internships to increase your chances of acceptance.
Action: Apply to at least 5–10 programs.
31. Talk to Teachers
Ask teachers for advice or connections to internship opportunities in your field.
Action: Schedule a meeting with a teacher in your field of interest.
32. Connect with Counselors
School counselors often know about local or national internship programs.
Action: Visit your school counselor to discuss opportunities.
33. Reach Out to Alumni
Contact past internship participants for insights and tips on applying.
Action: Email alumni through program websites or LinkedIn.
34. Use Family Networks
Ask family members if they know professionals who offer internships.
Action: Discuss internship goals with family for referrals.
35. Attend Career Fairs
Visit school or community career fairs to meet recruiters and learn about opportunities.
Action: Attend a local career fair with a resume.
36. Join Professional Groups
Participate in organizations like Junior Achievement for networking events.
Action: Join a local chapter of a professional organization.
37. Use LinkedIn
Create a LinkedIn profile to connect with professionals and find internships.
Action: Set up a LinkedIn profile with a professional photo.
38. Email Organizations
Cold-email companies or nonprofits to inquire about unlisted internship opportunities.
Action: Draft a polite email to a local organization.
39. Volunteer for Exposure
Volunteer at organizations to build relationships that may lead to internships.
Action: Volunteer at an organization in your field of interest.
40. Attend Workshops
Join career workshops to meet mentors and learn about internship openings.
Action: Sign up for a career workshop in your community.
41. Practice Interview Questions
Rehearse common questions like “Why do you want this internship?” with a friend.
Action: Practice with a friend or family member.
42. Research the Organization
Learn about the company’s mission and projects to show informed interest.
Action: Review the organization’s website before the interview.
43. Dress Professionally
Wear appropriate attire, even for virtual interviews, to make a good impression.
Action: Plan your interview outfit in advance.
44. Prepare Questions
Ask thoughtful questions about the internship to demonstrate curiosity.
Action: Prepare 2–3 questions about the role or organization.
45. Practice Virtual Etiquette
Test your tech setup and ensure a quiet, professional background for virtual interviews.
Action: Test Zoom or your interview platform beforehand.
46. Be Confident
Speak clearly and confidently to convey enthusiasm and competence.
Action: Practice speaking clearly in front of a mirror.
47. Highlight Relevant Skills
Emphasize skills or experiences that match the internship’s requirements.
Action: Prepare examples of relevant skills for interviews.
48. Show Enthusiasm
Express genuine excitement for the opportunity to leave a positive impression.
Action: Practice conveying enthusiasm in mock interviews.
49. Practice Active Listening
Listen carefully to questions and respond directly to show engagement.
Action: Practice listening and responding in mock interviews.
50. Follow Up Post-Interview
Send a thank-you email within 24 hours to reinforce your interest.
Action: Draft a thank-you email template in advance.
How To Get An Internship In High School
51. Track Applications
Use a spreadsheet to monitor deadlines, submissions, and follow-up dates.
Action: Create a spreadsheet to track your applications.
52. Follow Up Politely
Email programs to check on your application status after a reasonable period.
Action: Send a polite follow-up email after 2–3 weeks.
53. Stay Persistent
Apply to new opportunities if you face rejections; persistence pays off.
Action: Apply to new programs after any rejections.
54. Seek Feedback
Ask for feedback on rejected applications to improve future submissions.
Action: Email programs for constructive feedback if rejected.
55. Reapply if Needed
Reapply to programs in future cycles if you’re not accepted initially.
Action: Note programs to reapply to next year.
56. Stay Organized
Keep all application materials in one place for easy access.
Action: Create a dedicated folder for application documents.
57. Monitor Email Regularly
Check your email daily for updates or interview requests from programs.
Action: Set a daily reminder to check your email.
58. Respond Promptly
Reply to internship communications within 24–48 hours to show professionalism.
Action: Respond to emails within 48 hours.
59. Confirm Details
Verify internship start dates, locations, and requirements upon acceptance.
Action: Confirm logistics with the program coordinator.
60. Plan Logistics
Arrange transportation or housing for in-person internships well in advance.
Action: Plan travel or accommodations early.
61. Improve Communication Skills
Practice clear and professional communication for emails and interviews.
Action: Practice writing professional emails.
62. Learn Time Management
Develop strategies to balance school, activities, and internship tasks.
Action: Use a planner to manage your schedule.
63. Enhance Teamwork
Work on group projects to build collaboration skills valued by employers.
Action: Join a group project at school or in a club.
64. Develop Problem-Solving
Practice tackling challenges in school projects to prepare for internship tasks.
Action: Work on a challenging project and document your approach.
65. Learn Basic Coding
Take free coding courses (e.g., Codecademy) for tech-focused internships.
Action: Complete a free Python course on Codecademy.
66. Improve Writing Skills
Practice writing essays or reports for internships requiring strong communication.
Action: Write a sample report and seek feedback.
67. Build Public Speaking Skills
Join debate or speech clubs to boost confidence in presenting ideas.
Action: Join your school’s debate or speech team.
68. Learn Data Analysis
Familiarize yourself with Excel or basic data tools for STEM or business roles.
Action: Take a free Excel course online.
69. Practice Leadership
Take on leadership roles in clubs or teams to demonstrate initiative.
Action: Run for a leadership position in a club.
70. Stay Curious
Show a willingness to learn by asking questions and exploring new topics.
Action: Research a new topic in your field each week.
71. Start Early
Begin your internship search in the fall to meet early deadlines.
Action: Start researching programs in September or October.
72. Create a Portfolio
Showcase projects (e.g., coding or art) to demonstrate your skills.
Action: Build a portfolio using Google Sites or GitHub.
73. Attend Info Sessions
Join program webinars to learn more and ask questions directly.
Action: Register for a program’s info session online.
74. Use School Resources
Leverage your school’s career center for resume help or internship leads.
Action: Visit your school’s career center for guidance.
75. Explore Summer Programs
Focus on summer internships for flexible scheduling around school.
Action: Prioritize summer programs in your search.
76. Consider Year-Round Options
Look for part-time internships during the school year for ongoing experience.
Action: Search for year-round opportunities on job boards.
77. Seek Mentorship
Find a mentor in your field to guide your internship search and preparation.
Action: Ask a teacher or professional to mentor you.
78. Stay Positive
Maintain a positive attitude, even after rejections, to stay motivated.
Action: Reflect on your progress to stay motivated.
79. Learn from Peers
Talk to classmates who’ve done internships for tips and recommendations.
Action: Discuss internships with peers who’ve participated.
80. Be Flexible
Consider internships outside your top choice to gain diverse experiences.
Action: Apply to programs in related fields.
81. Understand Stipends
Clarify if stipends cover expenses like travel or housing for in-person programs.
Action: Ask programs about stipend details.
82. Check Application Fees
Confirm if programs have fees and explore financial aid if needed.
Action: Research financial aid options for paid programs.
83. Build a Professional Email
Use a professional email address (e.g., firstname.lastname@gmail.com) for applications.
Action: Create a professional email address.
84. Practice Digital Literacy
Learn to navigate online application portals confidently.
Action: Practice using online forms or portals.
85. Stay Ethical
Be honest in your applications about your skills and experiences.
Action: Ensure all application information is accurate.
86. Explore Niche Fields
Look for internships in unique areas like marine biology or arts administration.
Action: Search for niche programs on Internships.com.
87. Prepare for Virtual Work
Learn tools like Zoom or Slack for virtual internship tasks.
Action: Familiarize yourself with Zoom and Slack.
88. Show Initiative
Demonstrate proactivity by proposing ideas in applications or interviews.
Action: Suggest a project idea in your application essay.
89. Balance Commitments
Ensure you can manage internship hours alongside school responsibilities.
Action: Plan your schedule to accommodate internship hours.
90. Seek Diversity Programs
Apply to internships for underrepresented groups, like Girls Who Code or Meta Summer Academy.
Action: Research diversity-focused programs.
91. Learn from Rejections
Use rejections as opportunities to refine your approach and skills.
Action: Analyze rejections to identify areas for improvement.
92. Stay Updated
Follow program websites for updates on deadlines or requirements.
Action: Bookmark program websites for regular checks.
93. Build a Support System
Rely on family, teachers, or friends for encouragement during the process.
Action: Share your internship goals with supportive people.
94. Practice Gratitude
Thank mentors, recommenders, and interviewers for their time and support.
Action: Write thank-you notes for all support received.
95. Document Achievements
Keep a record of projects or tasks completed during internships for your resume.
Action: Create a document to track internship accomplishments.
96. Reflect on Goals
Periodically reassess your internship goals to stay focused.
Action: Review your goals monthly during the application process.
97. Stay Professional
Maintain professionalism in all communications and interactions.
Action: Review all communications for professionalism.
98. Explore Local Resources
Check with local libraries or community centers for internship listings.
Action: Visit your local library for internship resources.
99. Celebrate Small Wins
Acknowledge progress, like submitting applications or landing interviews.
Action: Reward yourself for completing applications.
100. Keep Learning
Continue building skills and knowledge to prepare for future opportunities.
Action: Enroll in a new course or read about your field regularly.
How To Get An Internship In High School
How to Get an Internship in High School and Keep It
Learning how to get an internship in high school is only the first step. Once you secure one, keeping it requires focus, professionalism, and consistency. High school student internships in 2025 are competitive, so understanding both how to get an internship in high school and how to succeed in one can set you apart. Here’s how students can improve their chances :
Researching how to get an internship in high school : Look for programs that match your passions, whether it’s coding, healthcare, journalism, or environmental science. Early research helps you find deadlines and opportunities before they close.
Building a strong resume for how to get an internship in high school : Keep your resume simple but polished. Highlight school projects, volunteer work, and extracurriculars that show commitment and skills.
Networking for how to get an internship in high school : Reach out to teachers, mentors, family members, or local businesses. Personal connections can reveal hidden internship opportunities.
Keeping how to get an internship in high school once secured : Show professionalism from day one. Arrive on time, communicate clearly, and stay eager to learn throughout the internship.
Growing through how to get an internship in high school : Treat every internship like a stepping stone. Good work habits lead to recommendations and open doors for future opportunities.
High school student internships become truly valuable when you not only know how to get an internship in high school but also how to keep it and make the most of the experience.
How To Get An Internship In High School
Conclusion: The Lasting Advantages of How to Get an Internship in High School
Knowing how to get an internship in high school offers benefits that extend far beyond the internship itself and directly impact your future. High school students who secure internships gain valuable skills like teamwork, time management, adaptability, leadership, and problem-solving while working in real professional settings. These experiences strengthen college applications, impressing admissions officers by showing initiative, responsibility, and ambition. Learning how to get an internship in high school also provides networking opportunities with mentors, industry professionals, and peers who can guide you with recommendations, career advice, and even future job connections.
Equally important, mastering how to get an internship in high school builds confidence and prepares students for the challenges of tomorrow. Internships give clarity about career interests, boost self-belief through hands-on learning, and create readiness for both college, jobs, and leadership roles. By learning how to get an internship in high school and applying those lessons wisely, students transform short-term opportunities into long-term career growth and academic success. These internships not only shape your high school years but also set the foundation for thriving in higher education, competitive careers, and lifelong professional development.
About Inspirit AI
AI Scholars Live Online is a 10-session (25-hour) program that exposes high school students to fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project. Taught by our team of graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and more, students receive a personalized learning experience in small groups with a student-teacher ratio of 5:1.
