Dreaming of gaining real-world experience while studying in the USA? Well, getting an internship as an international student isn’t just possible; it’s one of the smartest things you can do to boost your career. Whether you want to explore your career options, build your resume, or simply learn how the professional world works in the U.S., this guide covers you.
Let’s break it down step-by-step and make the whole process simple.
Table of Contents
Benefits of Doing an Internship in the USA
Before jumping into how to get one, let’s talk about why you should consider internships in the USA.
- Workplace Experience: U.S. companies often use internships as trial periods for future jobs. So, this could lead to full-time roles.
- Resume Booster: Having an “internship in the USA” on your resume adds serious value when applying for future jobs globally.
- Networking: You get to meet professionals in your field, build connections, and learn industry norms.
- Cultural Understanding: It helps you adjust better in American workplaces and understand professional etiquette.
- Hands-on Learning: You won’t just study theory; you’ll learn by actually doing the job.
How do you get an internship in the USA as an international student?
Okay, let’s talk about the real deal: how to get an internship in the USA if you’re an international student. It may sound overwhelming at first, but follow these steps and you’ll be good to go.
1. Check Visa Rules First
Before anything, make sure your student visa allows you to do an internship. Most international students in the U.S. are on an F-1 visa, and you’ll need CPT (Curricular Practical Training) or OPT (Optional Practical Training) authorization to work legally.
Some internships may also require a J-1 visa, which is specifically for exchange programs and internships. Don’t worry, we’ll talk more about visas later in the FAQ section.
2. Update Your Resume & LinkedIn
American-style resumes are short, usually one page. Keep it clean and to the point. Add your skills, education, and any past experience, even if it’s volunteering.
Also, create or polish your LinkedIn profile. Recruiters in the U.S. often check LinkedIn before hiring.
3. Use Your University’s Career Centre
Most U.S. colleges have a career center that helps students find internships. Don’t ignore it; they often have partnerships with companies that love hiring international students.
4. Start Applying Early
Some internships, especially summer ones, are posted 6-8 months in advance. So don’t wait for the last minute.
Popular platforms to search for internships:
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Indeed
- Glassdoor
- Handshake
- GoOverseas—Great for international internship programs
- Shorelight—Offers tailored guides for international students.
5. Practice for Interviews
Interviewing in the U.S. might feel different. Be confident, speak clearly, and prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer. Practice makes perfect!
Top 12 Internships in the USA for International Students
Here are some of the best internships for international students in the USA that are not only well-known but also super valuable in terms of learning, networking, and even getting full-time jobs after graduation.
1. Google Internship Program
If you’ve ever dreamed of working at one of the most innovative companies in the world, Google’s internship program is where you want to be. They offer roles in software engineering, UX design, marketing, product management, and more. Further, many interns land full-time offers after graduation. Google accepts international students and even helps with the visa process, especially if you’re on CPT or OPT.
2. Microsoft University Internship
Microsoft has a highly structured internship program for students interested in immersing themselves in tech, business, or research. There’s more to internships than just coding, finance, marketing, and supply chain; HR opportunities are available too. Interns get to work on impactful projects and participate in workshops, speaker sessions, and career coaching. The highlight? Microsoft is famous for recruiting international students and offering visa assistance if necessary.
3. Tesla Internships
Want to work with cutting-edge technology? Then Tesla is the answer, as it offers internships in engineering, manufacturing, operations, sales, and more. These internships are fast-paced and provide hands-on experience; Tesla
enables the internet to thrive under pressure. Interns at Tesla get real responsibilities from day one and are treated like full-time employees. Tesla also welcomes international interns, especially those with strong academic backgrounds and relevant experience.
4. Amazon Internships
Amazon runs one of the largest internship programs in the world. Whether you’re into software development, product management, data science, or operations, there’s something for everyone. Interns work on real problems that impact millions of customers. Plus, Amazon is known for its supportive intern culture, with mentorship, feedback sessions, and tons of networking opportunities. They also support international students with proper visa documentation.
5. Meta University Grad Internships
Formerly Facebook, Meta offers exciting internships in engineering, product design, data analytics, and research. Their internships are intensive, innovative, and high-impact. You’ll work closely with teams building products for billions of people. Meta welcomes international students and has a history of extending return offers to high performers.
6. Goldman Sachs Summer Analyst Program
This is a very renowned internship in finance. If you’re interested in investment banking, risk management, human capital, or international markets, Goldman Sachs provides a balanced experience. Interns undergo formal training programs, work on actual deals, and learn directly from market leaders.
7. JP Morgan Chase Internships
JP Morgan internship opportunities are best suited for students who want to study finance, technology, or consulting. Their summer internships, such as the Software Engineer Program or the Investment Banking Analyst Internship, are highly competitive and influential. Interns receive mentoring, training, and a peek into one of the world’s largest financial firms. International students are welcome, especially those studying at U.S. universities.
8. Deloitte Global Internship Program
Deloitte’s internship program gives you the chance to work on real-world business problems, especially in consulting, auditing, or technology. It’s a great fit for students who enjoy problem-solving and teamwork. Interns receive mentorship and often work with big-name clients. Deloitte is friendly toward international students and is open to hiring those on CPT/OPT, especially if you bring strong analytical or tech skills.
9. UN Internships (New York HQ)
If you’re more interested in international affairs, human rights, or development work, then the United Nations Internship in New York is worth looking into. These internships are usually unpaid but give you direct exposure to global policymaking and diplomacy. You’ll get to attend high-level meetings, draft reports, and work with professionals from around the world. You’ll need to arrange your own visa (usually a J-1), but the experience is truly one of a kind.
10. World Bank Internship Program
The World Bank offers internships in economics, research, public policy, finance, and more. It’s a great place for students interested in global development. Most internships are paid and located in Washington, D.C. The application process is competitive, but international students are absolutely encouraged to apply. They usually require you to be enrolled in a graduate-level program and fluent in English.
11. NASA Internship Programs (for STEM students)
NASA isn’t just for astronauts! Their internships are ideal for STEM students, especially those in engineering, computer science, physics, and environmental sciences. Interns work alongside real scientists and engineers on active missions and research. It’s a fantastic opportunity to build your technical skills and work at one of the most respected science organizations in the world. Most NASA internships are open to U.S. citizens, but some research centres do accept international students through exchange programs or partnerships.
12. GE Internship Programs
General Electric (GE) offers internships and co-ops in areas like engineering, business operations, finance, and information technology. Their programs are project-based, with interns taking ownership of tasks that impact real products and services. GE also runs a Global Internship Program that specifically welcomes students from outside the U.S. If you’re looking for hands-on experience in a multinational company, this is a great pick.
These internships for international students in the USA aren’t just about adding a name to your resume; they’re real opportunities to learn, grow, and maybe even land a full-time job. Remember to always start early, stay consistent, and don’t be afraid to contact your university or mentors for help in applying.
How Rostrum Can Help You Get an Internship
Figuring out how to land an internship in the USA as an international student can feel overwhelming. You’ve got to understand stuff like CPT and OPT, look for legit internship programs in the USA, make sure your resume and documents are right, and then somehow stand out in a sea of applicants. That’s exactly where Rostrum can make life easier.
Rostrum isn’t just another consultancy that helps you apply to universities. We would be more like a personal guide and support system for international students. From helping you pick the right internships to preparing you for interviews, we’ve got your back the whole way.
Here’s what makes Rostrum super helpful:
- We help you build a solid resume and LinkedIn. It’s not enough to just write a list of what you’ve done. You need a resume that speaks the language companies in the U.S. understand. Rostrum helps you polish both your resume and LinkedIn profile so they actually reflect your skills and achievements and catch recruiters’ eyes.
- We train you for interviews. Interviews in the U.S. can feel very different from what you’re used to. Whether you’re applying for roles in tech, business, or design, Rostrum helps you practice with mock interviews. That way, you don’t walk into a real one feeling nervous or underprepared.
- We explain the complicated stuff clearly. Terms like CPT, OPT, and visa sponsorship can be super confusing. Rostrum mentors break it all down for you in simple words so you know what’s what. We also guide you on the best time to apply for internships, depending on your academic timeline.
- We’ve got insider connections: Rostrum has partnerships and connections with companies that actually hire international students. That’s a huge plus because finding employers willing to work with visa rules can be tough. Rostrum can point you toward real, open opportunities, saving you time and stress.
- We stay with you throughout. One of the best parts? We don’t just help you once and disappear. Rostrum sticks around, offering continued mentorship, feedback, and even support when you’re just feeling stuck. We understand how it feels to be far from home, trying to figure it out on our own.
So, if you’re feeling confused about how to find internships in the USA or just don’t want to go through it alone, Rostrum can truly be a game-changer. As we’re not just there to give you advice, we’ll be there to walk with you through every step of the journey, like a trusted mentor who actually gets it.
FAQ on How to Get an Internship in the USA as an International Student
Q. How to get a visa for an internship in the USA?
If you’re on an F-1 visa, you’ll need either CPT or OPT authorization from your university’s Designated School Official (DSO). You apply through your school, and they update your I-20 form.
If the internship is not directly related to your course or is not part of your academic program, you may need a J-1 visa. This visa is often sponsored by programs like CIEE or AAG. Your employer will guide you through this.
Q. How much is a J-1 visa?
The J-1 visa fee itself is around $185 USD, but keep in mind there may be additional costs for sponsorship, which can range from $500 to $2000 USD depending on the sponsor.
Q. Are internships paid in the USA?
Many internships in the USA are paid, especially in tech, finance, and business fields. Some nonprofits and research institutions offer unpaid internships, but they might provide academic credit or other perks.
Always confirm the details in your offer letter; don’t be afraid to ask if it’s a paid internship—no harm in clearing out the doubts.
Q. What visa do I need for an internship in the USA?
You’ll most likely need:
- F-1 visa + CPT/OPT for internships connected to your studies
- Or a J-1 visa if you’re part of an exchange or special internship program
Make sure to never work without proper authorization, as it could impact your future visa applications.
Q. Where can I find an internship in the USA?
Here’s a quick list of trusted platforms:
- Shorelight’s Internship Guide
- GoOverseas – USA Internships
- Indeed
- Glassdoor
- Handshake
- Chegg Internships
- Your University Career Portal
You can also attend career fairs and join student clubs related to your field; they’re a great way to hear about opportunities.
Getting an internship for international students in the USA may sound like a lot, but once you understand the steps, it becomes manageable. Start early, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from your professors, career counselors, or services like Rostrum.
The U.S. has tons of amazing internship opportunities waiting for you. All you need is the right strategy and a little bit of confidence.
