Are you a high school student looking to jumpstart your career in business? Whether you dream of becoming an entrepreneur, a marketing expert, or a finance professional, gaining hands-on business experience early can set you apart. Or maybe you’re a parent or counselor searching for opportunities to help a motivated student succeed? Internships for high school students are one of the best ways to build real-world skills, gain valuable experience, and explore the business world. In this blog, we’ll share the top seven business internships for high school students designed to help them develop essential skills, build their resumes, and start their journey toward a successful career in business.
Why Internships Matter for High School Students Interested in Business
Internships are more than resume builders; they’re opportunities to explore passions, develop career-ready skills, and connect with inspiring professionals. They give you firsthand insights into what it feels like to work in the business world and identify areas you love (or don’t love!) before committing to a career path.
Whether it’s mastering finance basics, learning how to lead a team, or facing the exciting chaos of launching a startup, internships prepare you for the future while making your college applications shine.
7 Business Internships for High School Students
Now, are you ready to take a glimpse at opportunities that could shape your business career? Here are seven internships perfect for high school students interested in business:
1. Microsoft High School Internship
Microsoft, one of the world’s leading technology companies, offers internship opportunities for high schoolers interested in software development and business strategy.
- Overview: This program includes hands-on experience in coding and project development. Students gain insights into the intersection between business and technology.
- Responsibilities: Collaborate on real-world projects, attend team meetings, and learn about Microsoft’s business processes.
- Benefits:
- Learn directly from industry experts.
- Build professional connections at a world-renowned company.
- Gain a better understanding of how technology influences global business decisions.
Make sure to Highlight personal projects in tech or entrepreneurial club experiences to make your application stand out!
2. Goldman Sachs Summer Analyst Program
Goldman Sachs is a global leader in investment banking, and this program provides high school students with an introduction to finance.
- Overview: Expose yourself to the fast-paced world of investment banking, gain insights into market strategies, and understand financial modeling.
- Responsibilities:
- Shadow analysts and assist with financial research.
- Review and analyze data for reports and presentations.
- Benefits:
- A unique intro to corporate finance and investments.
- Networking with seasoned industry professionals.
- Add an impressive name to your resume.
Not sure you have enough experience? Not a problem! Frame your application around skills from school leadership roles, math competitions, or personal finance projects.
3. Google Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI)
If tech and business excite you, Google’s CSSI has a program aimed at high schoolers interested in computer science and its applications in the real world.
- Overview: A deep-dive workshop introducing computer science fundamentals while highlighting potential business applications.
- Responsibilities:
- Participate in coding practice and project building.
- Learn how technology is leveraged for world-changing business solutions.
- Benefits:
- Foundational training in one of the most in-demand fields.
- Be a part of Google’s inspiring culture.
- Build experience to explore tech-enabled business strategies.
This one looks great for students attending DECA or robotics clubs!
4. Bank of America Student Leaders Program
For students passionate about leadership and civic engagement, Bank of America’s Student Leaders program offers opportunities to explore business with a focus on community impact.
- Overview: Internship placement in nonprofits, along with a leadership summit in Washington, D.C.
- Responsibilities:
- Work with nonprofit staff to implement business solutions for societal challenges.
- Collaborate on community projects with other interns.
- Benefits:
- Develop leadership and teamwork skills.
- Contribute meaningfully to your community.
- Earn a stipend for the summer.
This internship is perfect if you have volunteer or leadership experience at school!
5. DECA Emerging Leader Internship
DECA helps prepare students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management with their exciting internship opportunities.
- Overview: DECA internships focus on developing real-world business skills through competitions and practical business projects.
- Responsibilities:
- Participate in career-focused activities.
- Develop marketing plans or event proposals.
- Benefits:
- Gain niche insights into marketing and hospitality.
- Build valuable public speaking and presentation skills.
- Impress future colleges with DECA’s prestige.
Our tip to you is to Mention any regional DECA events you’ve attended when applying!
6. Junior Achievement Company Program
Do you dream of creating your own company? The Junior Achievement Company Program lets students start and run their own businesses with expert mentorship.
- Overview: Collaborate with your peers to create ideas, develop business strategies, and run a functioning company.
- Responsibilities:
- Develop products or services from idea to execution.
- Pitch to investors and sell to customers.
- Benefits:
- Learn practical entrepreneurship.
- Build confidence in decision-making and teamwork.
- See the direct impact of your efforts in a real-world setting.
Want to be bold? Use this experience as a launchpad to create your first real startup!
Suggested Reading: Gilman Scholarship Program | 2025 Ultimate Guide
7. Local Small Business Internships
If you want to explore business without committing to big corporations, check out local small businesses in your community.
- Overview: Interning at a small business gives you a unique understanding of how day-to-day operations work and how businesses grow.
- Responsibilities:
- Assist in marketing, customer support, or operations.
- Gain experience in wearing “many hats” within a small team.
- Benefits:
- Personalized mentorship from small business owners.
- Develop a diverse skill set.
- Network with local professionals.
Finding an Internship: Ask friends, family, or neighbors if they know small business owners looking for interns.
FAQs: Business Internships for High School Students
1. Who is eligible to apply for these business internships?
Most internships are open to high school students, typically juniors and seniors, though eligibility may vary by program. Be sure to check the specific age or grade requirements on the program’s website.
2. How do I apply for a business internship?
Applications usually involve submitting forms, resumes, essays, or recommendation letters. Some programs may also require an interview. Review each program’s application details carefully to meet all requirements.
3. Do I need prior experience in business to qualify?
Not necessarily! Many programs are designed for beginners and look for enthusiasm and a willingness to learn more than prior experience. However, showcasing interest in business through school clubs or related activities can strengthen your application.
4. Are these internships paid?
Some internships are paid, while others may offer unpaid experiences with valuable mentoring and learning opportunities. Specific details for each program can be found on their respective websites.
5. Can I balance an internship with my school responsibilities?
Most internships understand the commitments high school students have and provide schedules that allow participants to manage both. It’s important to prioritize and plan wisely while staying open about your availability.
6. What can I gain from participating in a business internship?
Business internships help you develop professional skills, gain insight into business careers, and build connections. They also enhance your resume, giving you an edge for college applications and future opportunities.
7. How can I prepare for the application process?
Start preparing early by updating your resume, seeking letters of recommendation, and practicing interview skills. Researching each program thoroughly will also ensure your application aligns with their values.
Suggest Reading: National Merit Scholarship Program: 2025 Full Guide
Conclusion
High school is the perfect time to explore your passions, and internships offer the opportunity to peek into the professional world while developing invaluable skills. Don’t be discouraged if landing one of these competitive opportunities isn’t easy the first time. Highlight your strengths, emphasize your enthusiasm, and start with positions that align with your current skills and passions.
Before applying, make sure to:
- Polish your resume.
- Practice your interview skills using mock interviews.
- Research each program in-depth using the provided links for application details.
Already landed that dream internship? Make the most of it by networking with professionals, asking questions, and reflecting on what you’ve learned.
Start your business career now by choosing one of these exciting opportunities! Share this list with friends, parents, or counselors who might benefit, and visit the programs’ websites to take the first step toward your future.
