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Why do some internships require college credit?

I find a lot of internships that I want to apply to, but they'd require me to be eligible for college credit, and I've already graduated. Should I apply to them anyways?

  • I'm in an awkward position where I'm under-qualified for entry positions, that require more experience than I have and a higher degree than what I got. I would otherwise qualify for a lot of unpaid internships that sound like a lot of fun and get me over the experience problem, but they've required me to "be eligible for college credit." Does that mean I need to be enrolled in college to be accepted into that internship? I assume companies to list that as a requirement to get around the fact that it's unpaid work. But, I don't know if I've cheated myself by graduating from college before getting all the internship experience I could possibly get.

  • Answer:

    Hi Molly this is a good question. You and Phoebe are both correct in that the primary reason companies require you to take an internship for credit is the belief that this brings their program in compliance with the law (in actuality credit does not fulfill this).  In any case, these position will be very tricky to land without being in school.  There is always the outside chance that the company will be so impressed with you during an interview that you can negotiate a salary, but I would not bank on such positions. On the other hand, there are a ton of companies who offer paid internships (over 40%) and who would still be interested in having you come on board as an intern. I would focus your attention on these roles and do all you can to get a foot in the door and start building experience. Over 70% of interns are offered full-time jobs so while you may be at a disadvantage for having not found internship experience while in school, you can make up for this now.  If you are still within one year of graduation feel free to check out our site http://www.internmatch.com/ -- it is totally free for internships seekers and has a ton of such positions available that fit the criteria you are looking for.

Nathan Parcells at Quora Visit the source

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Other answers

If they require school credit, it is because they are trying to keep an unpaid program within the limits of the law. So they won't be flexible for you even if you're the best candidate in the universe. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but you did indeed cheat yourself. Internship experience is often the key to the door of gainful employment. However, You may still have an option. Look for paid internship opportunities (these are much flexible on the enrollment requirement) or try temping. I don't know what field you're trying to break into, but if it's business related temping can be really helpful. It gets you experience and contacts while you get PAID! Are there any non-profits in your area that could use your help? You can legally work for them for free, you just need to find the right person to offer your services to. LinkedIn can help you do that.

Phoebe Gavin

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