Helpful? Yes. Necessary? Not Really

If you’re a high school student interested in business school, you may wonder if having an internship is essential for admissions. While internships can definitely add value to an application, they’re not required. A strong business school application can be built in many ways, and internships are just one of the tools to show colleges your dedication and willingness to learn.

What an Internship Can (and Can’t) Do for You

Internships give you a taste of the working world and can help you learn skills like client communication, project management, and problem-solving—abilities that go beyond what you’d learn in the classroom. These experiences show admissions officers you’re serious about a business career. Just remember that internships can also include basic tasks like organizing files or helping around the office. Still, ideally, they’ll offer you some real, varied learning experiences.

Finding the Right Internship Experience

If you’re interested in a specific area like finance or marketing, that’s great, but it’s wise to stay open to different roles for now. A broad view of business can help you understand what you really enjoy and might pursue in the future. Some internships even allow students to rotate between departments, which is especially helpful for a well-rounded experience.

When searching, ask parents for help if needed, as they might offer valuable guidance. However, avoid working solely within a family business. Working in a neutral, professional environment can offer a more meaningful experience that stands out on applications.

Meaningful Experience Over Busy Work

The quality of the internship is what matters most. Look for experiences that involve scheduled activities, defined goals, and opportunities to learn new skills rather than just running errands or “getting the coffee.” Internships can be part-time, full-time, paid, or unpaid—the key is finding something that challenges you to grow.

For students who can’t do an internship due to location, visa restrictions, or language barriers, that’s okay! Other ways to build a strong application include online courses through platforms like Coursera or edX, or volunteering online. Even researching independently or exploring business topics through books or blogs can help you develop a foundational understanding.

The Bottom Line: Valuable, but Not Required

In the end, internships, volunteering, or any work experience can strengthen your application by showing colleges that you’re ready for the world of business. But remember, every application is unique. Whether you do an internship or not, there are many ways to show your interest in business and build skills. Choose experiences that are meaningful and fit your goals, and remember that each one adds to the story you’ll tell in your college applications.