9 Paid Internships for High School Students: Unlock Career Growth Early
Quick Insights: Best Paid Internships for High School Students
If you’re a high school student eager to gain professional experience and earn money, exploring 9 paid internships for high school students offers invaluable opportunities. From tech giants to creative agencies and nonprofit organizations, these internships provide hands-on learning, mentorship, and a stepping stone toward future careers. Dive in to discover detailed insights, eligibility, and how to apply for these top programs.
When I first sought work experience as a high school student, I found paid internships to be a game-changer. Not only did they help me build real skills, but earning while learning boosted my confidence. In this article, I’ll share a comprehensive look at 9 paid internships for high school students that stand out for their meaningful work, competitive pay, and positive reviews. Whether you’re interested in STEM, creative fields, or social impact, there’s something here that could launch your career early.
Top 9 Paid Internships for High School Students with Deep Dives
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Google Summer Internship: Tech and Innovation
Google’s internship for high school students is one of the most coveted in the industry. It offers paid opportunities in coding, UX design, and AI research. The program lasts 8-12 weeks and includes mentorship from Google engineers.
Eligibility: Sophomores, juniors, and seniors with strong coding skills and an inquisitive mindset.
Compensation: Approximately $20-$25 per hour, with remote and on-site options at various offices including Mountain View, CA.
What makes it unique: Extensive networking, challenging projects, and access to Google’s learning resources. One intern shared, “This internship pushed me to solve complex problems and confirmed my passion for computer science.”
Microsoft High School Internship: Software Development and Design
Microsoft offers paid summer internships designed for high school students interested in software engineering, data science, and game design. Interns work on real projects and develop skills with the support of senior mentors.
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors with academic excellence and extracurriculars in STEM.
Compensation: Competitive hourly wages, about $22-$27/hour, plus access to Microsoft’s exclusive learning materials.
Why it stands out: Interns enjoy hands-on projects that often impact Microsoft products and can participate in workshops on leadership and career development.
Smithsonian Internships: Arts, History & Public Engagement
The Smithsonian Institution offers paid internships for high school students interested in museums, research, and cultural programs. These roles provide experience in curating, archiving, and public history projects.
Eligibility: Students with a passion for history, art, or science communication.
Compensation: Approximately $15-$18 per hour during summer programs based in Washington D.C.
Unique Benefits: Access to national collections, networking with renowned experts, and opportunities to help organize exhibitions and educational programs.
NASA High School Internship Program: STEM Exploration
NASA’s paid internships immerse students in cutting-edge aerospace projects, from satellite development to data analysis supporting space missions. Many interns engage in STEM research alongside NASA professionals.
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors with strong science and math backgrounds.
Compensation: Stipends vary but generally range from $1,500 to $3,000 for summer internships.
What I found important: NASA’s real-world challenges motivate interns to think beyond textbooks and innovate. One award-winning participant noted, “My NASA internship was the turning point that made me want to pursue aerospace engineering.”
The New York Times Summer Internship: Journalism & Media
If your ambition lies in journalism, The New York Times offers a paid summer internship for exceptional high school reporters and creatives. You’ll cover stories, craft multimedia content, and learn newsroom workflows.
Eligibility: Juniors and seniors demonstrating journalistic skills, writing aptitude, and curiosity.
Compensation: Paid internships offer a stipend between $1,200 and $2,500 for summer engagements in NYC.
Why apply: You gain inside experience at a major media outlet and have stories published with professional edits. One former intern told me, “It was surreal to see my byline printed in the Times—it sparked my journalism career dream.”
Smith College Museum of Art Internship: Curatorial & Education Roles
For high school students interested in museum work, this paid internship focuses on curatorial assistance and arts education. Interns help with exhibit research, cataloging, and community outreach.
Eligibility: Motivated high school students with interest in arts and museum careers.
Compensation: Hourly pay around $13-$16, with summer and academic year sessions available.
Unique aspect: Working in a college museum provides exposure to academic research and creative interpretation, enhancing interns’ critical thinking.
The Walt Disney Company Internship: Entertainment & Creative Roles
Disney’s high school internship pays and offers roles across animation, film, marketing, and theme park operations. Interns are immersed in a professional environment brimming with creativity and innovation.
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors excelling in creative disciplines or business-related skills.
Compensation: Around $15-$20 per hour, depending on location and role.
Highlight: From corporate marketing to character performance, Disney’s internships provide diverse experiences and networking opportunities in a globally recognized brand.
Smithsonian Latino Center Internship: Cultural and Policy Focus
This paid internship at the Smithsonian Latino Center focuses on cultural programming, research, and community outreach. It provides a platform for students passionate about Latino history and advocacy.
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors interested in cultural studies and public policy.
Compensation: $14-$17 per hour for summer sessions in Washington D.C.
Why it matters: Interns actively contribute to cultural programs that promote diversity and inclusion, building a unique skill set in communications and nonprofit work.
Local Hospital Internship Programs: Healthcare Exposure
Many city hospitals and health systems offer paid internships or summer programs for high school students interested in nursing, research, or healthcare administration. These programs focus on clinical observation and patient care support.
Eligibility: High school students with an interest in medical sciences and strong academic records.
Compensation: Usually stipends or hourly pay around $12-$16.
Insider tip: Check local hospital websites or contact volunteer coordinators. Interns often gain indispensable direct experience and build relationships with healthcare professionals. One intern said, “My hospital internship gave me hands-on exposure and solidified my goal to become a nurse.”
Summary: Why These 9 Paid Internships for High School Students Are Worth It
From my own experience and countless inspiring stories, securing any of these 9 paid internships for high school students can accelerate your career trajectory, teach valuable life skills, and provide financial benefits. Each program stands out for offering real-world tasks, professional mentorship, and a chance to explore fields before college.
Whether it’s working alongside NASA scientists, crafting stories for The New York Times, or innovating at Google, these internships are practical pathways to success. I encourage every high schooler serious about their future to research these options, prepare thoughtfully, and apply early. The doors they open can shape your next decade—and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paid Internships for High School Students
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What qualifications do I need for paid internships as a high school student?
Most paid internships require you to be a high school sophomore, junior, or senior with strong academic records. Skills vary by industry but generally include a demonstrated interest in the field, good communication, and sometimes prerequisite coursework or personal projects. Internships like those at Google or NASA prefer candidates with relevant STEM skills, while media internships want strong writing portfolios.
How can I increase my chances of getting one of these internships?
Start by researching the application timelines and tailoring your resume and cover letter specifically to each role. Highlight any relevant experience, volunteer work, or clubs. Strong recommendation letters and personal statements explaining your passion are often crucial. Applying early and preparing for interviews with knowledgeable questions also help.
Are these internships remote or on-site?
Many programs now offer hybrid or fully remote internships due to recent global shifts, providing flexibility. For example, Google and Microsoft have remote options, but some require on-site participation, especially those involving lab work or physical presence, like hospitals or museums. Check each program’s details carefully.
Can internships help with college applications?
Absolutely. Paid internships demonstrate maturity, initiative, and career focus, which are highly valued by college admissions committees. They provide concrete experiences to discuss in essays and interviews. Internships like these also connect you with mentors who can write impactful recommendation letters.
Where can I find more internship opportunities?
Besides the programs listed here, look at local universities, community centers, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations. Websites such as Internships.com, LinkedIn, and government portals often list high school opportunities. Your school’s career counselor can also be an excellent resource.
Useful Links for Application and Location Details
For deeper information on each program and to apply, use these official pages:
