10 Essential Items to Include in Your Internship Application Checklist

Internships are one of the best ways to gain practical experience, build your resume, and develop valuable professional connections. Whether you're applying for your first internship or you've had previous experience, having a well-organized and complete internship application is crucial to making a strong impression on potential employers. A comprehensive application checklist can help you stay on track and ensure that you submit everything necessary to stand out from the competition.

In this article, we'll outline 10 essential items to include in your internship application checklist, offering tips and best practices along the way. Following this guide will not only increase your chances of landing your ideal internship but also help you present yourself as a competent, organized, and professional candidate.

Updated Resume

Your resume is the first thing that employers will see, and it serves as a snapshot of your academic background, skills, and any relevant experiences. Whether or not you have prior internship experience, ensure that your resume highlights your most recent academic achievements, part-time jobs, volunteer work, and any special skills you possess.

Key Resume Tips:

• Tailor your resume: Customize your resume to align with the specific internship you're applying for. Highlight any relevant coursework, volunteer work, or skills that are applicable to the internship role.
• Use a clean, professional format: Avoid using excessive colors or fonts. Stick to a professional layout with clear headings and bullet points for easy readability.
• Quantify your achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate your accomplishments. For example, "Increased social media engagement by 30%" is more impactful than "Managed social media accounts."

Checklist Item:

• Ensure your resume is up to date with your most recent experiences and skills.
• Tailor your resume to the specific internship you're applying for.

Compelling Cover Letter

A cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself to the hiring manager and explain why you're a great fit for the internship. A strong cover letter can make a significant impact, giving you the opportunity to showcase your passion, explain how you align with the company's goals, and express why you're eager to contribute.

Key Cover Letter Tips:

• Personalize your letter: Address the cover letter to the hiring manager or recruiter by name. Avoid using generic greetings like "To whom it may concern."
• Explain why you're interested: Let the employer know why you're excited about the internship. Highlight your passion for the industry or company.
• Focus on your skills: Instead of simply restating your resume, focus on how your skills and experience make you an ideal candidate. Showcase any relevant projects or coursework.

Checklist Item:

• Make sure your cover letter is well-written, free of typos, and tailored to the company and role.

Portfolio or Work Samples

If applicable, including a portfolio or work samples is an excellent way to demonstrate your skills and abilities. A portfolio could include academic projects, personal projects, presentations, designs, or writing samples, depending on the field you are pursuing.

Key Portfolio Tips:

• Showcase your best work: Select samples that demonstrate the depth and quality of your work. Include projects that are most relevant to the internship role.
• Make it accessible: If you're submitting digital work, use online platforms like GitHub (for code), Behance (for design), or Google Drive to share your portfolio. Include links in your application.
• Provide context: When possible, explain the context of each work sample and what skills or techniques you used.

Checklist Item:

• Include relevant work samples or a link to your online portfolio if it applies to the internship.

Transcripts and Academic Records

Internships are often designed for students or recent graduates, which is why employers will likely want to see your academic history. An official or unofficial transcript can provide insight into your academic performance, especially if you're lacking work experience.

Key Transcript Tips:

• Request early: If the application requires an official transcript, make sure to request it well in advance to avoid any delays in submitting your application.
• Highlight academic achievements: If your grades or certain courses are relevant to the internship role, point them out in your cover letter or resume.

Checklist Item:

• Include a current transcript or academic records if required. Make sure it's up to date and error-free.

Recommendation Letters

A strong recommendation letter from a professor, mentor, or previous employer can be a powerful addition to your internship application. These letters help employers gauge your character, work ethic, and potential as an intern.

Key Recommendation Tips:

• Choose the right person: Select someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths and qualifications. This could be a professor who taught you in relevant courses, a previous supervisor, or a mentor from a club or organization.
• Give enough time: Ask for recommendation letters well in advance to give the person writing it enough time to craft a thoughtful and strong letter.
• Provide context: When asking for a recommendation letter, offer some context about the internship role so that the recommender can tailor the letter to the position.

Checklist Item:

• Request recommendation letters from credible individuals early enough to meet deadlines.

Application Form or Online Application Submission

Many internship programs have an online application portal or a physical application form that needs to be filled out. Ensure that you've completed all required fields and followed the application instructions closely.

Key Application Form Tips:

• Fill out everything: Double-check to ensure that all fields are completed. Missing information could result in your application being rejected.
• Be mindful of deadlines: Many internships have strict deadlines. Ensure that you submit the form well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.

Checklist Item:

• Fill out the internship application form thoroughly and submit it on time.

Personalized Email

When submitting your internship application, it's important to accompany your documents with a professional email. This email should be concise, polite, and professional, and it should briefly explain your interest in the internship and what documents you're attaching.

Key Email Tips:

• Use a professional subject line: Include the position title and your name in the subject line (e.g., "Internship Application -- Marketing Intern -- [Your Name]").
• Be brief and professional: In the email body, introduce yourself, briefly state why you're applying for the internship, and mention the documents you've attached.
• Proofread: Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors in your email. This is a reflection of your attention to detail.

Checklist Item:

• Compose a professional email introducing your application and attach the required documents.

LinkedIn Profile or Professional Social Media Links

Including your LinkedIn profile or links to any other professional social media accounts can provide the employer with additional insights into your background and skills. Make sure your profile is polished, up to date, and aligned with your resume.

Key LinkedIn Tips:

• Update your profile: Make sure your LinkedIn profile is current with your most recent experiences and achievements.
• Customize your URL : For a more professional look, customize your LinkedIn URL (e.g., linkedin.com/in/yourname).
• Engage with content: If appropriate, engage with industry-related posts or share your own work to demonstrate your interest and involvement in your field.

Checklist Item:

• Include a link to your updated LinkedIn profile or any relevant professional social media accounts.

Proof of Skills or Certifications

Certain internships may require specific skills or certifications, such as proficiency in specific software, languages, or technical abilities. Be sure to include documentation of any relevant certifications or proof of skills.

Key Proof Tips:

• Certifications: Include any certifications or online courses you've completed that are relevant to the internship.
• Skills assessments: If available, take any online skills assessments that may help bolster your application.

Checklist Item:

• Include any relevant certifications, proof of skills, or assessments that align with the internship requirements.

Interview Preparation Materials

Once you've submitted your application, it's time to prepare for the interview process. Being prepared for the interview is just as important as submitting a strong application.

Key Interview Prep Tips:

• Research the company: Understand the company's mission, values, products, and services. This will allow you to tailor your answers to align with the company's goals.
• Prepare for common questions: Practice answering common internship interview questions, such as "Why do you want this internship?" or "Tell me about a time you worked in a team."
• Prepare questions for the interviewer: Have thoughtful questions ready for the interviewer to demonstrate your interest in the position and company.

Checklist Item:

• Prepare for potential internship interviews by researching the company and practicing common interview questions.

Conclusion

Successfully landing an internship requires a combination of organization, attention to detail, and effective communication. By following this checklist and ensuring you have all the necessary documents and materials ready, you'll present yourself as a professional and motivated candidate.

Remember to stay organized, be timely with your applications, and personalize your materials to show your genuine interest in the role. With these 10 essential items, you're well on your way to securing the internship of your dreams and gaining valuable experience for your future career.

View Product