How to Write a Strong Internship Funding Application
Many departments, centers, institutes, and offices across Dartmouth offer potential funding to support unpaid and low-paying internships, off-campus research, and other experiential learning opportunities. In most cases, it is necessary to apply for this funding.
At Dartmouth, academic departments, centers, and institutes all offer potential funding. Here is a complete list of academic departments and programs. Here is a comprehensive list of centers and institutes. Note that there are other organizations at Dartmouth, as well as beyond Dartmouth, that offer funding. Professors are a good source of information for discipline-specific funding opportunities. Discipline-specific professional organizations often compile lists of funding opportunities related to that field.
For funding in the form of fellowships and/or grants (most often to support undergraduate or graduate studies), consult the Office of Fellowship Advising.
Keep in mind:
- There is a limited pool of funding available. A small percentage of applicants actually receive funding.
- Most funding programs cover full-time leave term experiences when you will not be enrolled in classes (this generally does not apply to grants/fellowships for study).
- Application and eligibility requirements differ. Contact the office offering funding for information. Most programs ask you to apply by the fifth week of the term preceding your leave term.
- International students should consult with the Office of Immigration and Visa Services regarding funding eligibility.
Pay close attention to application requirements. In most cases, incomplete or improperly completed applications will not be considered. Most applications require:
- Resume
- Completed application form
- Written description of the opportunity in your words, including a description of the organization, why you are interested, and how this will help you refine and achieve your professional goals
- Formal confirmation of opportunity by host organization (see below for what to include)
- Some applications also require a detailed budget (use the currency of the country where the funding organization is based, even if the opportunity is in a different country with a different currency)
Tips for Writing a Strong Application
While funding programs vary, strong applications consistently provide:
- Employer or host organization, documentation verifying position; key tasks and responsibilities; dates and duration of experience; impact of experience on organization and intern; and anticipated hours per week. Be specific: What will you be doing and how will this contribute to the organization? Who will you be working with?
- A clear connection between the opportunity and your professional/academic goals, including special projects, and anticipated skill development: How will this prepare you for your next step? What will this opportunity give you that you could not get otherwise?
- Clear evidence of academic and/or professional preparation for the funded experience. There is no expectation that you are an expert, but you should have some demonstrated interest: What classes have you taken that prepare you for the opportunity? What previous internship or work experience do you have that has helped you develop the skills or knowledge necessary for the opportunity?
Application Process Steps
- Secure an opportunity at least 3 months before your leave term
Most funding applications require you to secure an opportunity (e.g. internship, project) by the time you apply.
- A CPD coach can help you identify and apply to opportunities (some of which may be reasonably paid and do not require funding).
- Take the time to research funding program options at Dartmouth. Even if a program does not require you to have an offer before the deadline, your application will be more competitive if you have a confirmed experience.
- When you receive an offer, ask the organization to confirm your offer in writing.
- Think about housing, which can often be the largest expense incurred in completing an internship, research experience, etc. Having a roommate can significantly reduce this expense. Specificity strengthens a funding application; your application will be stronger if you clearly identify housing options and costs. Be aware of housing application and deposit deadlines.
- Estimate Expenses
Provide a budget that demonstrates need and the ability to adapt. Include expenses that are essential for the successful completion of the opportunity (housing, food, transportation, etc.). Do not include inessential or superfluous expenses (entertainment, non-work travel, inessential technology, excessive budget for business attire, etc.). Make it easy for the application reviewers to conclude that you are thrifty, moderate, and professional in your request for funding.
Ineffective | Effective | |
Phone/Internet | $100/month | My current bill is $100 per month but service is limited; this will give me temporary access to faster broadband required for connectivity. |
Rent (Post-COVID) | $1500 | Sharing housing with three Dartmouth students – my contribution will be $500 per month* |
Food | $750 | Based on MIT Living Wage calculator for D.C. metro area food costs $250/month |
Transportation | $425 | Based on purchase of a monthly Metrocard for $153 ( $8.50 cost per RT daily travel w/out card) |
Check with individual programs to learn about eligible expenses and grant ceiling amounts.
Providing a budget is strongly encouraged.
- Follow Individual Funding Opportunity Guidelines/Deadlines
- If you need clarity regarding funding application guidelines, ask questions before you apply.
- Present a clear, detailed, and complete funding application that presents a compelling case. Spelling and grammar matter. Application deadlines are firm.
- Get feedback. When you finish your first draft, ask a few readers to review your application. What is missing or needs to be clarified? What questions do they have?
- In some cases, it is possible for the organization offering the funding to review your application and provide preliminary feedback ahead of the deadline. Consult the description of the funding opportunity. Do not submit your application for review if the organization does not advertise that they review applications.
- Be transparent. If you apply for funding for the same opportunity through multiple programs, let each office know where else you’ve applied.
- Respond quickly to any questions and express your appreciation.
- Unless it is expressly prohibited by a funding organization, consider reaching out to other students/alumni who have received funding and request their informal input on your application.
Get Support for Your Application
The CPD coaching team is available to help you. Schedule a 1-on-1 appointment to get help identifying opportunities and to get advice on your applications.
While you wait to hear about funding, create a contingency plan – consider what you will do if you do not receive it. Having a back-up plan is critical.