The Intern Group:
U.S. Internships for International Students (OPT, CPT)

About The Intern Group (TIG)

The Intern Group is the leading provider of international internship programs, abroad and online. We partner with over 3,000 host organizations, from entrepreneurial startups, to large multinational companies, nonprofit organizations and government agencies. Our hands-on roles will give you relevant experience, which is vital in today’s job market, allowing you to gain important insight into your industry on a global scale.

As an international student in the U.S., you may be eligible to participate in an Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) experience. These programs help students and recent graduates gain valuable hands-on experience in U.S. companies and organizations. The Intern Group can help you secure an internship directly related to your area of study in Computer Science or in Business (including Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Finance, and Marketing.)

Our Independent Traveler Internship Program has everything you need to boost your career, including:
 

• A professional, in-person internship in a business or technology field
• Career advancement training focused on developing 8 key competencies desired by employers
• Our Keynote Speaker Series of exclusive live Q&A sessions with experts and industry leaders
• Coordination with your International Student and Scholar Support office 
• Live personal support throughout the program, including placement counseling, resume and cover letter guidance, free & confidential access to mental health services provided by licensed professionals, and a session with a professional career coach after your internship is complete

You choose when you want to start, the hours you can commit (20 to 40 per week), and the length of your internship (6 to 24 weeks). While you are welcome to apply at any time, for the best experience we recommend starting the process at least 3 months in advance of your desired start date. Also, remember to check with your international student and scholar services office for any immigration related paperwork deadlines. Please note, in-person program dates and lengths vary by location.

1. Apply - Fill out our short application form, attach your resume/CV, and schedule an online interview with our Admissions team. Applying is fast and free.

 

2. Connect with The Intern Group's Admissions Team - Similar to an advising session, we will discuss your internship and career goals, and the program structure that best suits your professional and personal needs. Be prepared to talk about your background and goals. During this process we will review your application and determine your eligibility to participate in the program.

 

3. Receive your decision - Within 1-3 days, we will send you our admissions decision. If you are accepted into the program, you can confirm your enrollment by submitting a deposit toward the program fee. 

 

4. Begin the Internship Placement Process - Once you are enrolled in the program, our placement team will create a professional profile for you and share it among our network of host organizations to find an internship opportunity that matches your goals. You will then have an interview with the host organization to ensure that it is a good match, and you also will begin the visa process if necessary. 

Note that participation in our programs has a fee, and that host companies may offer either paid or unpaid internships. Whether you can be paid for the internship depends on your immigration status and other factors. 

Financial aid is available for many students. Speak with a TIG admissions officer to see if you qualify.

A Student's Perspective