Internships

Internship Funding

Southwestern supports students’ investment of time in life-changing high-impact experiences, including internships, by offering funding support so that limited funds are not an obstacle.

Students have the opportunity to apply for funding to help offset the costs of unpaid and low-paying internships through a rigorous application process managed by the Office of Internships in the Center for Integrative Learning. Generous philanthropic support from alumni, parents, and friends of the university gives students the opportunity to complete a high impact intellectual experience during the fall, spring, and summer while enrolled at Southwestern. 

The Opportunity

Students may receive up to a maximum of $5,000 during the summer semester. Amounts vary based on a number of factors, such as internship length or number of hours worked per week.

The Application Process

Students can apply for funding for the summer semester. There are two application cycles for summer funding. Completed applications submitted by the deadline are evaluated by a committee of staff members from across campus who then allocate funding. 

Summer 2024 application dates:

Cycle One:

  • Application Live: Thursday, February 15, 2024
  • Application deadline: Friday, March 1, 2024 at 5 pm
  • Student award notification: Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Cycle Two:

  • Application live: Tuesday, March 19, 2024
  • Application deadline: Thursday, April 18, 2024 at 5 pm
  • Student award notification: Tuesday, April 30, 2024
The Application

The application consists of three essay prompts and will be shared with students on the listed application live dates.  Students are strongly encouraged to give detailed responses tailored to each prompt.

Start your application here.

Funded internship Information Sessions

Funded Internship information sessions are held each semester. It is advised that students attend at least one info session before applying, but it is not required. The information session lasts 30-45 minutes and covers the nuts and bolts of the funded internship program, tips on writing a successful application, as well as information about academic internships.

For additional guidance on your application, please schedule an appointment with the Debby Ellis Writing Center. The Writing Consultants are trained to assist students with their Funded Internship applications. Please make an appointment here

Spring 2024 Information Sessions (All sessions are located in Prothro 233): CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

  • Thursday, March 7, 4:00 - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday, March 26, 12:30 - 1:30 pm
  • Wednesday, April 10, 12:30 - 1:30 pm

The deadlines to apply for Summer 2024 funding is Friday, March 1, 2024 at 5 pm and Thursday, April 18, 2024 at 5 pm.

Have any other questions about the Funded Internship Program? Contact us or make an appointment!


International Internships

Students may receive funding through the Funded Internship Program if they are participating in an international internship that is offered as an approved internship abroad program. Students apply for programs through Via and must be approved by the Office of Study Abroad and International Student Services

International Students

International students who engage in an internship, shadowing or research experience, paid or unpaid, must first seek the appropriate work authorization: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).

International students may be eligible for the Funded Internship Program through SU only if the student has approved Curricular Practical Training (CPT), is enrolled in an Academic Internship AND the employment takes place in the U.S.

 Students should consult with the Office of Study Abroad and International Student Services for assistance.