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 and $1,500 during the fall or spring. 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 fall, spring, or summer semesters. Applications open three times per year, one for each term. Completed applications submitted by the deadline are evaluated by a committee of staff members from across campus who then allocate funding. 

The Application

The application, distributed electronically only to students who attend an information session, consists of three essay prompts.  Students are strongly encouraged to give detailed responses tailored to each prompt.

Funded internship Information Sessions

In order to access the funding application, students must attend an information session. Information sessions are held at least once a week during the fall and spring semesters. 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.

Fall 2023 Information Sessions (All sessions are located in Prothro 233): CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

• Wednesday, January 17, 4:00 - 5:00 pm (PRC 233)
• Monday, January 22, 12:00 - 1:00 pm (PRC 233)

While at Southwestern, a student wishing to apply for funding is required to attend only one information session. In subsequent semesters, if applying for internship funding, the student will then have access to the application. The current term’s information session dates, times, and registration links can be found in the Events link to the left.

The deadline to apply for Spring 2023 funding is Tuesday, January 23, 2023  by 5PM

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

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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.