Are paid internships available for African students?

Yes — Google STEP, Microsoft Explore, Goldman Sachs Possibilities Summit, World Bank Internship, UN Internship Programme and the African Leadership Academy all offer paid or fully funded internship pathways.

Do internships sponsor visas?

Major US programmes sponsor J-1 or F-1 CPT visas. UK, EU and African internships handle short-stay visas through the host organisation.

Are internships open to undergraduates?

Yes — most STEP, Explore and bank summer programmes target first- and second-year university students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds.

How competitive are these internships?

Top-tier programmes have acceptance rates under 5%. Apply 9–12 months before the start date and prepare technical interviews early.

Internships & Fellowships

Paid internships and fellowships for African students

Internships and fellowships are the fastest way to gain global work experience and a foot in the door at top employers. Below are the live, paid opportunities open to Africans.

Listings include Google STEP, Microsoft Explore, Goldman Sachs Possibilities Summit, World Bank Internship, UN Internship Programme and African-led fellowships at the African Leadership Academy and Tony Elumelu Foundation.

Most of these close 6–9 months in advance — plan with our 12-month application timeline, sharpen your motivation letter using our scholarship essay guide, and if you also need degree funding, read the full-ride scholarship playbook.

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