Internships
One of five types of work-based learning in RI, internships are making a difference for students. The PrepareRI Internship Program provides paid summer internships for high school juniors.
How can my school participate?
Students from Rhode Island public and public charter high schools are eligible to participate in the PrepareRI High School Internship Program. Any current high school junior in a public school may apply. There are no academic or attendance limitations for eligibility. Students will be selected based on their qualifications.
An outside organization, Skills for Rhode Island’s Future, will match students with internship placements based on fit, preparedness, and skill. If you would like Skills for Rhode Island’s Future to come to your school and present on the opportunity to your students, please contact (401)680-5960 and ask for a PrepareRI Recruiter.
questions?
Contact: prepareri@skillsforri.com
prepareri internship Frequently asked questions
Is there a cost to the PrepareRI Internship Program?
No. PrepareRI Internships are free for schools and students.
Which students are eligible?
Complete interview with Skills RI and/or with employer(s)
Attend 40-hour paid work-readiness bootcamp scheduled for June 22 – June 26, 2026 from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Complete a minimum of 150 hours of work over a 6-week period between July 6 – August 14, 2026
Have a flexible schedule for work during the summer of 2026
Eligible to work in the United States
Attend Rhode Island public or public charter high school or home school with identified LEA
Current junior in high school (2025/2026 school year)
Parental/Guardian consent to participate
Rhode Island resident
Minimum of 16 years of age by March 30, 2026
Eligible to work in the United States
Complete online PrepareRI High School Internship Application - Application Deadline 1/14/2026
Does this replace existing summer youth employment, such as the opportunities available through local nonprofits?
No. The PrepareRI Internship Program was created to provide students with more internship opportunities; it does not replace any existing opportunities. Students interested in a PrepareRI Internship are also encouraged to apply to other programs, including summer youth employment run by local community-based organizations.
Is there a required pre-internship curriculum?
No. Skills for Rhode Island’s Future will provide an orientation and training to all selected students before starting the internship. Schools are encouraged to provide a work-readiness curriculum to their students during the school year, but such a curriculum is not required and will not affect students' eligibility for the internship program.
When will the student application be available?
The application period for the 2026 PrepareRI Internship program is now available and will close January 14, 2026 at 11:59PM. Incomplete or late applications will not be accepted. Visit www.skillsforri.com/prepareri for the application and more information.