14 Internships For College Students In Austin, TX
- Stephen Turban
- Apr 20
- 10 min read
Internships are one of the most practical ways to gain experience while you’re still in college. They help you build industry-relevant skills and understand how different roles function. Through internships, you gain exposure to professional tools, workflows, and expectations, making the transition to full-time work much smoother. Another key advantage is networking; you get to connect with professionals, mentors, and peers who can support your career growth. These experiences not only strengthen your resume for graduate school but also help you make more informed decisions about your career path.
Why should I do an internship in college?
Internships can significantly improve your employability by giving you practical experience that employers look for in entry-level candidates. They demonstrate that you can apply academic knowledge in work settings and adapt to professional environments. Internships also strengthen your graduate school applications by showing initiative, subject interest, and engagement with your field. In addition, they help you build technical and soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Overall, internships provide a clear advantage by preparing you for both job opportunities and further academic pursuits.
Austin, Texas, offers a strong mix of industries for students to explore, from tech and startups to government and creative sectors. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to identify the right opportunities. To make this easier, we’ve narrowed down a list of 14 internships for college students in Austin, focusing on programs hosted by prestigious institutions that offer meaningful work experience, skill development, and strong professional exposure.
If you're looking for more prestigious internships, check out this set of blogs!
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies by program
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort; multiple deadlines year-round
Eligibility: High school, undergraduate, and gap year students able to commit 10–20 hours per week for 8–12 weeks
The University Internship Program at Ladder Internships offers a remote, project-based experience where you work with global startups and nonprofits across various industries. Over 8–12 weeks, you contribute to real organizational goals through roles in areas like business development, marketing, product research, or design. You collaborate closely with a startup manager, gaining hands-on experience in professional communication, problem-solving, and project execution. The program emphasizes ownership of work, allowing you to see how your contributions impact the organization. At the end of the internship, you present your project, demonstrating both your learning and the results achieved. Apply now!
Location: Austin, TX
Stipend: Paid internship with various benefits. Check details here
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Unspecified
Dates: May – August (12 weeks minimum)
Application Deadline: Not mentioned Eligibility: Students currently pursuing a degree in Human Resources, Industrial Organizational Psychology, Communications, Business, or a related field. Check other prerequisites here
Recruiting Internship at Tesla offers college students hands-on experience in talent acquisition and HR operations within a fast-paced corporate environment. As an intern, you will support recruiting workflows by coordinating communication between candidates, recruiters, and hiring teams while ensuring timely follow-ups and smooth processes. You also work with recruiting systems to maintain candidate data, track hiring progress, and ensure accuracy in reporting. The role involves assisting with scheduling, improving candidate experience, and supporting ongoing recruitment initiatives. Through this experience, you gain practical exposure to HR processes, organizational communication, and data management in a global company. Interns are also included in meaningful team projects, giving you insight into how recruitment contributes to overall business success.
Location: Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) locations across the United States
Stipend: Stipend based on educational level and locality. Check details here
Location: Multiple AFRL sites across the United States
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Dates: Vary by AFRL site and project
Application Deadline: January 10
Eligibility: Students enrolled or accepted at an educational institution; must take at least a half-time course load in the preceding semester; minimum age 16 (18 for California placements)
The Scholars Program at Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) offers paid internships for college students interested in advanced STEM research. As an intern, you will work on projects in areas such as aerospace engineering, robotics, cybersecurity, and applied physics, contributing to ongoing research initiatives. You are paired with experienced scientists and engineers who provide mentorship and guide your work throughout the program. The experience emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing you to apply technical knowledge in practical research settings while understanding how large-scale scientific projects operate. In addition to building technical skills, you also gain insight into professional research environments and collaboration within government labs.
Location: Field office and headquarters locations
Cost/Stipend: Paid on a GS-5 or GS-4 pay scale, based on eligibility
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Dates: June–August
Application Deadline: Typically closes in May
Eligibility: U.S. citizens enrolled in a U.S.-accredited college or university (undergraduate, graduate, or post-doctoral); minimum GPA 3.0
The Honors Internship Program (HIP) at the Federal Bureau of Investigation is a competitive, paid 10-week summer internship for undergraduate and graduate students interested in fields like criminal justice, national security, and cybersecurity. You will be matched to roles based on your skills and interests to work on assignments such as legal research, data analysis, forensic science, or intelligence support. During the program, you collaborate with special agents, analysts, and professional staff, gaining exposure to real investigations and federal operations. You may also attend briefings, participate in training sessions, and explore different units through field visits. The experience helps you build critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills in a high-responsibility environment. For many students, it also serves as a pathway to future full-time roles within the agency.
Location: Statewide Texas, including Austin area (in-person, hybrid, or remote)
Cost/Stipend: Minimum $15/hour
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive
Dates: Multiple periods; varies by internship
Application Deadline: No fixed deadline
Eligibility: Texas undergraduate students; check all criteria here.
The TXWORKS Internship Program, by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, is a paid initiative that connects undergraduate students in Texas with real-world internship opportunities. As a participant, you will work with approved employers across the state, including many in Austin, gaining experience while earning at least $15 per hour. The program allows you to apply classroom knowledge to practical tasks, contributing to meaningful projects in professional settings. Opportunities may be in-person, hybrid, or remote, offering flexibility based on the role. Alongside work experience, you build career-readiness skills and expand your professional network. To participate, you must meet eligibility requirements and apply through TXWORKS-participating employers.
Location: Various locations, including Austin
Cost/Stipend: Paid; varies by internship
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive
Dates: Varies by role and location
Application Deadline: Varies by role
Eligibility: Currently enrolled university students
The Internship Program at Arm Holdings offers college students the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology across software engineering, hardware design, research, and marketing. As an intern, you will contribute to projects involving AI, computing systems, and next-generation chip design, working alongside experienced engineers and professionals. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, encouraging you to experiment, solve problems, and take ownership of your work from day one. In addition to technical experience, you benefit from a strong intern community through events, networking opportunities, and collaborative team environments. Many interns also transition into full-time or graduate roles, making it a strong pathway for long-term career growth.
Location: Construction-focused placements nationwide, including the Austin area
Cost/Stipend: Paid; amount not specified
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: 12 weeks from June to August
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Students currently enrolled at an accredited U.S. college, university, or higher education program entering junior or senior year. Check more details here
Austin Industries offers paid summer internships, allowing you to work directly on large-scale construction projects alongside experienced professionals. Typically structured as a 12-week program, the internship gives you exposure to project workflows, including planning, coordination, and on-site execution. You’ll collaborate with construction managers, engineers, and fellow interns, gaining practical insight into how multi-million dollar projects are delivered. The experience helps you build transferable skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and project management. You’ll also develop an understanding of industry standards, safety practices, and day-to-day operations in construction environments. Along the way, you’ll form professional connections that can support your future career in the field.
Location: Various NASA facilities across the U.S.; limited remote options
Cost/Stipend: Stipend provided; amount varies by duration and academic level
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Varies by placement
Dates: Varies by cohort and placement
Application Deadline: Summer: February 27 | Fall: May 22
Eligibility: Full-time or part-time college students (undergraduate through graduate level); minimum GPA 3.0; at least 16 years old at time of application; U.S. citizen
The OSTEM Internship at NASA Office of STEM Engagement offers paid opportunities for college students to work on real projects tied to space, science, and technology. As an intern, you may contribute to areas like aeronautics, engineering, data analysis, or mission support, depending on your placement. The program is available in both remote and on-site formats across NASA centers, giving you flexibility in how you participate. You’ll be paired with a mentor, often a scientist, engineer, or technical expert, who guides your work and helps you understand real-world applications. During the internship, you might design experiments, analyze mission data, or support the development of new technologies. With multiple sessions offered each year, the program also gives you structured exposure to professional workflows and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Location: 40+ city departments across Austin
Cost/Stipend: Paid; varies by internship
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive
Dates: Year-round opportunities
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate students; varies by internship
The City of Austin College Internship Program offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience across more than 40 city departments, ranging from communications to public administration to computer science to art history. Internships are available throughout the year on a rolling basis, allowing you to find opportunities that align with your academic background and career interests. As an intern, you will contribute to projects that support city operations while developing professional skills in areas like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. The program also offers flexible schedules, wellness resources, and professional development opportunities. Working within a public service environment, you gain insight into how local government functions and impacts the community.
Location: Austin, TX
Cost/Stipend: Some departments offer paid internships
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive
Dates: Typically one semester (fall, spring, or summer)
Application Deadline: Varies by opportunity
Eligibility: High school, undergraduate, and graduate students
The Internship Program at Travis County offers college students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience across a wide range of public sector departments, including healthcare, parks, libraries, and forensic labs. You will begin with job-readiness training and then apply those skills in workplace settings, working on tasks such as office coordination, research, and community outreach. The program is typically semester-based and may be paid or unpaid, with potential academic credit depending on your university. Throughout the internship, you may also engage in networking opportunities, including a job fair and a final showcase where you present your work and experiences. Working alongside experienced professionals, you gain insight into how local government functions and how different departments serve the community.
Location: Multiple worksites across Travis County and Austin, TX
Cost/Stipend: Paid; based on role; up to $4,000 per semester or $8,000 per academic year based on financial need
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive
Dates: Full-time and part-time roles available year-round
Application Deadline: Varies by opportunity
Eligibility: Students enrolled in high school, technical school, college, or university; minimum age 16 (some roles require 18+)
The Internship Program at the Texas Department of Transportation offers college students hands-on experience in transportation, engineering, and public infrastructure. You will typically work part-time or full-time across the year, contributing to projects in areas such as construction inspection, maintenance, engineering support, or administrative operations. Through this experience, you develop practical skills in teamwork, project management, and technical processes while working on projects that directly impact communities. The program also includes training sessions and mentorship, helping you understand how large-scale transportation systems are designed and managed. In some cases, you may rotate across divisions, gaining exposure to different roles within the department. Academic credit may also be available depending on your institution.
Location: Various MITRE hub locations, including Austin
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Dates: 10–12 weeks; late May or early June to late July or early August
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: High school, undergraduate, and graduate students
The Intern & Co-op Program at MITRE offers college students the chance to work on real-world, high-impact technology and research projects. As an intern or co-op, you will collaborate with senior staff on sponsor-driven programs, gaining exposure to systems engineering, cybersecurity, data analysis, national security technology, and more. The program combines hands-on project work with structured learning through MITRE’s Learning Track Program, where you attend technical sessions and skill-building workshops. Alongside your project work, you can participate in mentorship programs, networking events, and project expos that help you understand different career paths within the organization. The experience is designed to align closely with your academic background while giving you practical, applied exposure to complex problem-solving environments.
Location: Hometown communities (including Austin and Central Texas)
Cost/Stipend: Most internships are paid; unpaid placements include a $5,000 scholarship
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Dates: June–July
Application Deadline: Mid-February
Eligibility: All enrolled, degree-seeking UT Austin students. Check more details here
The Home to Texas Internship Program at the University of Texas at Austin is a summer initiative that connects students (many of them first-years) with internships in their hometown communities. Over nine weeks, you will work full-time with a local employer, gaining experience in areas such as public service, nonprofits, or community-focused businesses. Alongside the internship, you take a professional development course that helps you reflect on your experience and build skills like communication, teamwork, and time management. The program also includes a final Impact Showcase where you present your learning and contributions. For students in unpaid roles, a scholarship is provided to support participation. Overall, the program focuses on early career exposure while encouraging you to explore how your skills can contribute to your home community.
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Dates: Academic-year program
Application Deadline: Applications open in February and close later that month
Eligibility: High school graduates enrolled in a degree-seeking program in an accredited college or university, who are US citizens. Check more details here
The Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS) program by the U.S. Department of State is a remote internship opportunity for college students during the academic year. As a VSFS intern, you will work on projects supporting federal agencies such as the State Department, EPA, CDC, and USAID. Your work can include research, policy analysis, data visualization, content creation, or technical development, depending on the assigned project. Since the program is fully virtual, you can participate from anywhere, making it a flexible option alongside your college schedule. Although unpaid, the internship may count for academic credit and provides valuable exposure to government operations. Through this experience, you develop professional skills while gaining insight into careers in public service, policy, and international affairs.
One other option—the Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4,000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here, check out students’ reviews of the program here and here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a graduate of Harvard College, where he earned an A.B. in Statistics. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.
Image Source - NASA logo