2 answers
Amber
Student
Monroe Township, New Jersey
2
Questions
Asked
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In regards to summer internships, how early is it to apply, and is there anything we should keep in mind while applying (like red flags, particular requirements, etc)?
I am currently a sophomore majoring in Biology and I am looking forward to next summer's intership opportunities. However, I am unsure what to look for as many either have very specific requirments or are just a lottery pool of submitting a resume and hoping you get contacted. Is there anything I should keep in mind or look out for as I start to apply, especially for jobs that relate to biology? #Fall25
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2 answers
Sandeep Khandelwal
Software Engineer
50
Answers
San Ramon, California
Updated
Sandeep’s Answer
Hello Amber,
It is absolutely not too early to start looking and even applying for summer internships, especially since you are targeting Summer 2026. For highly competitive programs, particularly those in research or large corporate sectors, applications often open as early as August or September and close by November or December of the year prior to the internship.
As a sophomore, starting your preparation in the fall of 2025 is perfect as it gives you time to polish your resume, write targeted cover letters, and research specific organizations. Think of this early period as your competitive edge to secure a spot before the application windows close.
Hope this helps!
It is absolutely not too early to start looking and even applying for summer internships, especially since you are targeting Summer 2026. For highly competitive programs, particularly those in research or large corporate sectors, applications often open as early as August or September and close by November or December of the year prior to the internship.
As a sophomore, starting your preparation in the fall of 2025 is perfect as it gives you time to polish your resume, write targeted cover letters, and research specific organizations. Think of this early period as your competitive edge to secure a spot before the application windows close.
Hope this helps!
Thank you so much for the advice! I will definitely start applying to secure a spot as early as possible.
Amber
Cassie Webb
Enterprise Account Executive (Sales)
6
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Cassie’s Answer
It is never too early to apply for an internship, especially if you already meet some of the requirements. Many companies are even starting to offer one- or two-day programs for first-year and second-year students who are too early for their traditional internships. Do not be afraid to ask recruiters or employees how you can stay engaged and involved in the process if you are not yet eligible for the main program.
Companies may not always have a clear path for younger students, but you can still look for ways to stay ready and visible. Even if you are not “in the game” yet (in this case, not in the internship) stay hungry and eager by building your skills. This might mean pursuing relevant certifications, taking online courses, or joining student organizations related to your field of interest.
Companies may not always have a clear path for younger students, but you can still look for ways to stay ready and visible. Even if you are not “in the game” yet (in this case, not in the internship) stay hungry and eager by building your skills. This might mean pursuing relevant certifications, taking online courses, or joining student organizations related to your field of interest.