Remote internships have taken off in recent years, and for university students looking to get ahead while keeping flexible, they sound like a dream. But are they really worth your time, energy, and (sometimes) money? Or are they just a glorified online course with a fancy title?
Let’s break down the pros, cons, and key things to consider before you hit “apply.”
Table of Contents
Flexibility
This is the big one. Remote internships give you the freedom to work from anywhere—your dorm room, your parents’ house, or even a beach in Bali (Wi-Fi permitting).
You can save hours by skipping the commute, manage your own schedule, and often pair your internship with summer classes or another part-time job. For busy students or those balancing other responsibilities, it’s a game-changer.
Accessibility
Remote roles open up a ton of doors that wouldn’t be possible in person. You can intern for a company in New York or Silicon Valley even if you’re studying in a small town in Kansas.
Plus, you’re not limited by housing costs or relocation expenses. That means more students—including international students—can get access to quality internships without financial strain.
Experience
But let’s talk about the real value: the experience.
Remote internships can still help you:
- Build real-world skills (communication, project management, remote collaboration)
- Work on actual company projects
- Learn industry tools like Slack, Trello, Notion, or HubSpot
- Grow your professional network—even if it’s virtual
Just because you’re not in the office doesn’t mean you’re not gaining value. It all comes down to how the company runs the program.
Mentorship
Here’s where remote internships can fall a little flat: mentorship and feedback.
In an office, you can ask questions in real time, shadow experienced professionals, or just casually chat with coworkers. Remotely? You might only interact over email or Zoom.
If the company doesn’t have structured mentorship, you might feel isolated or unsupported. Before accepting, ask about:
- Check-in frequency
- Assigned mentors or managers
- Team collaboration tools
- Training or onboarding
The better the structure, the better your experience.
Credibility
Wondering if a remote internship will look good on your résumé? The answer is yes—if it’s legitimate and skill-building. Employers care more about what you did than where you sat.
If you gained new skills, contributed to real work, and have results to show for it, you’re golden.
What doesn’t count? Internships where you were doing mindless admin tasks with zero learning involved—or worse, unpaid “opportunities” that only exist to boost someone else’s business.
Pay
Let’s be real. Many remote internships are unpaid, especially in fields like marketing, media, or nonprofits. That doesn’t mean they’re not valuable—but it does mean you have to weigh your investment.
Ask yourself:
- Can I afford to do this unpaid?
- Will this help me get a better paid job later?
- Are there other paid options available?
And don’t be afraid to negotiate. If you’re being asked to work full-time hours, you deserve some form of compensation—even if it’s a stipend.
Verdict
So, are remote internships worth it? If they’re structured, skill-focused, and legit—absolutely. They’re flexible, accessible, and offer real growth if you choose wisely.
But not all remote gigs are created equal. Be picky. Do your research. And make sure the role aligns with your career goals—not just your schedule.
FAQs
Do remote internships count on a résumé?
Yes—if they’re skill-based and involve real work.
Are remote internships usually unpaid?
Many are unpaid, especially in creative fields.
Can I get hired full-time after a remote internship?
Yes, some lead to job offers if you perform well.
Is mentorship available in remote internships?
It depends—ask about support before accepting.
Are remote internships flexible?
Very. You can often choose your own hours.
