How to Build an Internship Search Plan

Last updated March 5, 2026

In this article

• Start by deciding what kind of internship you want
• Prepare your application materials 
• Organize your search
• Be intentional starting your search
• Use your network to find opportunities
• Stay persistent 

If you’re ready to get real-world experience and explore career options, building an internship search plan is a smart first step. Internships offer more than a short-term experience. They can help you figure out what kind of work you enjoy, build practical skills, and create a network of professionals who can support your career goals. Having a clear plan will help you stay focused, land the right opportunity, and take your next steps with confidence. In this article, we’ll show you how to build an internship plan! 

Start by deciding what kind of internship you want

Before you start your search, spend some time thinking about the types of opportunities you want to pursue. Take into consideration your strengths, interests, and long-term goals. An internship can be a perfect opportunity to explore a new field or find an opportunity in your desired career path to determine if it’s what you want to pursue. In general, internships are designed to be learning experiences that help you gain insight into specific industries. 

Consider the following when searching for opportunities: 

• Size – Consider the size of the company you want to work for. How will the size impact your experience?
• Pay – We always encourage students to seek paid opportunities first. Are you willing to take an unpaid internship if the opportunity is intriguing or the right fit? 
• Location – Where do you want to intern? Do you want to look for opportunities that are local, remote, or in a specific city/region?
• Mission – Does the mission of the organization resonate with you? Can you picture yourself representing their mission through your work? 
• Culture – What is the makeup of the team? Will there be other interns going through the experience with you? Will the work you do be collaborative, independent, or structured?
• Diversity & Inclusion – Does the organization have a commitment to equity and representation? 
• Benefits – Aside from pay, are there other benefits like paid time off, flexible hours, or professional development? 

Regardless of the type of opportunity you’re looking for, it’s important to take some time to consider what’s going to be the best fit for you, your schedule, and your obligations.

Prepare your application materials 

Resumes and cover letters are often the first way employers get to know you, so you’ll want to make sure they represent who you are. Both should be reviewed ahead of time and free of any errors when you submit. Your resume should incorporate all of the relevant information that demonstrates that you have the experience, education, and skills to succeed and grow in your internship role.

While not every job you apply for will require you to submit a cover letter, doing so anyways can help you stand out from other candidates. An effective cover letter should explain your interest in the position you’re applying for and highlight the skills and experience that make you the best candidate. We recommend drafting a basic cover letter template that highlights your experience and skills and tailoring it to each position you apply for. 

Organize your search

Depending on how many opportunities you are pursuing, it’s a good idea to keep track of your applications throughout the internship search process. Use our free Internship Search Tracker to get started! You can keep track of the internships you applied for, application statuses, important contacts, required application materials, and any other relevant information.

Be intentional starting your search

Focus on internships that align with your goals. Use internship boards, LinkedIn, your college’s career center, and company websites to find opportunities that interest you. When you apply, make sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to match the role. Hiring managers can tell when you’re genuinely interested!

Be sure to look for internship opportunities with plenty of time. Many internships, especially those held in the summer, begin recruiting and hiring months in advance. Handshake recommends that students prep their application materials about 4 months prior to applying or starting. This will allow plenty of time to ask for feedback from peers and mentors! 

Use your network to find opportunities

A solid internship search plan includes more than just online applications. Your network can be a powerful tool in helping you find the right fit. Start by talking to people you already know within your network, such as coworkers, professors, advisors, or supervisors who may be aware of internships you haven’t heard of. Friends, classmates, or family members might also have leads or tips based on their own work experience. Don’t hesitate to lean on your network to find new opportunities! 

Attending job fairs, workshops, or employer events can also be helpful. If you use LinkedIn, follow companies you’re interested in and connect with people who work there. A short message asking about their internship experiences or advice can go a long way! Most people are happy to help when you ask respectfully.

Stay persistent 

Applying for internships takes persistence and follow-through, and it’s easy to feel discouraged if you don’t hear back from employers. Keep at it! Every application you submit and interview you go through builds skills and experience. When you take time to build an internship search plan that reflects your interests and needs, you’re setting yourself up for success! 

Do you have any questions about building your internship search plan? Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.

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