Plan & Prepare
Begin early. Application, funding, visa, and review timelines vary by program and destination.
I found my own internship. What comes next?
Bring the host name, duties, supervisor, dates, physical work location, and any fees to your department’s internship advisor. Discuss academic credit and certificate requirements before starting. For work overseas, contact Study Abroad in Global Engagement before accepting financial commitments or arranging travel; ask which application and institutional review route applies to your placement.
Define your goals
Identify the skills you want to develop, your preferred field, timing, language skills, and budget. Choose domestic, abroad, or virtual; for abroad, compare internship-only and study-plus-internship programs.
Meet with advisors
For all locations, talk with your department about learning goals, course options, and degree requirements. For work abroad, also talk with Study Abroad about program options and the appropriate review route.
Compare the full experience
Get written details about duties, supervision, hours, housing, support, costs, refund terms, and placement timing. Ask what happens if the placement changes or is not a good fit.
Confirm credit and funding
Establish how credit will be earned before the internship begins. Discuss tuition, financial aid, scholarships, and your full budget with the appropriate USU offices.
What should I ask a host or provider?
- Who will supervise me, and what work will I do?
- How will the internship develop skills connected to my goals?
- When will my placement be confirmed, and what is actually guaranteed?
- Is compensation offered? Which costs are included or excluded?
- Who helps with housing, workplace concerns, and emergencies?
- What authorization is needed for these activities in the host country?
- Can the workplace and housing accommodate my access needs?
- What happens if I withdraw or the placement is canceled?
Planning Tools
Download the deadline tracker (CSV) and budget worksheet (CSV) to edit in Excel or Google Sheets. Use the printable advising checklist before your first appointment. Enter actual deadlines from the responsible offices.
Paid, Unpaid, and Language Requirements
Compensation and language expectations vary by host. Read each posting and ask about duties, supervision, required proficiency, hours, and total costs. An unpaid internship may still involve tuition or provider fees. Credit eligibility depends on academic approval.
Accessibility and Support
Discuss accommodation and access needs early with USU’s Disability Resource Center and your program advisor. Ask about the workplace, housing, transportation, and available support before committing.
International Students and Remote Work
Consult International Student and Scholar Services about authorization before accepting work. Virtual describes how you work; also identify the country where you will physically work. Remote work from overseas needs guidance from Study Abroad and Risk Management.