Are you a high school student dreaming about a successful future in business? Whether you’re interested in finance marketing tech or entrepreneurship business internships for high school students can open doors to new opportunities real world experience and career clarity.
In this guide we’ll cover everything you need to know about the best business internships for high school students how to apply what to expect and why it’s one of the smartest moves for your future success.
Why Business Internships Matter for High School Students
Business internships aren’t just about fetching coffee or organizing folders. They offer experiential learning hands on tasks and a front row seat to how real businesses operate. Here’s why they’re important:
- Career Exploration: Get a taste of different business roles like marketing finance or project management.
- Resume Building: Stand out in college applications with real job experience.
- Skills Development: Improve teamwork communication skills leadership and time management.
- Professional Networking: Connect with mentors leaders and like minded peers.
- College Preparation: Understand workplace expectations and boost your employability skills early.
How to Find Business Internships for High School Students Near Me
Looking for business internships for high school students near me? Start here:
Talk to Your Guidance Counselor
Most high schools have partnerships with local businesses and community service programs. Your school counselor can guide you to opportunities and help with the application process.
Use Online Internship Platforms
Platforms like Chegg Internships Handshake, and Indeed are full of listings for virtual internships remote internships and in person placements.
Network Through Family & Friends
Know someone who works in a company nonprofit or startup? Ask about job shadowing or entry-level internships.
Cold Outreach to Local Companies
Write a short polite email to local businesses asking if they offer internships. Include your resume and a brief note about your interest and availability.
Top Business Internship Programs for High School Students in 2025
Here are some of the most trusted and exciting internship programs for high schoolers interested in business.
Bank of America Student Leaders Program
- Type: Paid in-person
- Location: Nationwide
- What You Get: Leadership training nonprofit experience and a trip to Washington D.C.
- Deadline: January 2025
Meta Summer Academy
- Type: Tech + Business internship
- Location: Menlo Park California
- Who Can Apply: Sophomores from select cities
- Focus: Communication marketing and tech industry exposure
1435 Capital Management Venture Analyst Internship
- Type: Hybrid business internship
- Location: Princeton NJ
- Focus: Finance entrepreneurship venture capital
- Eligibility: Juniors and seniors
StandOut Connect
- Type: Virtual internship matching platform
- Industries: Business law finance STEM
- Perfect For: Students seeking business internships for high school students NJ CA TX and more
Chicago Summer Business Institute (CSBI)
- Location: Chicago
- Details: Students intern at law firms finance companies and nonprofits
- Skills Gained: Workplace readiness communication time management
Benefits of Doing a Business Internship in High School
| Benefit | Description |
| Career Readiness | Understand business roles early on |
| Mentorship | Learn directly from industry professionals |
| Academic Credit | Some programs offer credits for school |
| Scholarship Opportunities | Some internships lead to future scholarships |
| Interview Skills | Gain confidence through mock or real interviews |
How to Apply for Business Internships in High School
Step 1: Build a Resume
Use tools like Zety or Canva to design a simple 1-page resume.
Step 2: Write a Cover Letter
Tell your story. What excites you about business? What are your goals?
Step 3: Prepare for Interviews
Practice with your friends or use free resources like Big Interview.
Step 4: Apply Early and Often
Some internships are competitive. Apply to at least 5 10 different opportunities.
Final Thought
Business internships in high school are more than just a resume booster they’re a powerful launchpad for your future.
They give you the chance to explore real world roles discover what excites you and build skills that textbooks can’t teach.
From learning how to present in a meeting to networking with professionals each experience helps shape your confidence career direction and maturity.
Whether you’re aiming for a top business school or launching your own startup one day the foundation starts here.
Start early stay curious and don’t be afraid to take that first step you never know where it might lead.
FAQs
What age can you start a business internship?
Most programs start accepting students from age 16 but some take motivated sophomores too.
Are high school internships paid?
Some are paid (like Bank of America Student Leaders) but many offer experience and mentorship instead.
Can I do a business internship if I don’t have any experience?
Yes! Most programs are designed for beginners and teach everything from scratch.
How long do internships for high schoolers usually last?
Typically 4 8 weeks during summer with part time or full time schedules depending on the program.
Are there virtual business internships available?
Absolutely platforms like StandOut Connect offer virtual options across many industries.
How do I make my application stand out?
A clear resume a strong cover letter and early application give you a competitive edge.
Can internships help with college admissions?
Yes they show initiative real world skills and set you apart on college applications.
What if there are no internships near me?
Look for remote programs or reach out directly to local businesses to create your own opportunity.
