About This Page
This page helps immigrant, undocumented, international, and LGBTQIA+ students find internship and career opportunities that are inclusive and accessible. It includes eligibility guidance, internship resources, career support, and application tips to help students navigate barriers related to citizenship, work authorization, and funding requirements.
Understanding Internship Eligibility
Many internships have restrictions based on:
- citizenship or permanent residency requirements
- funding sources (e.g., government-funded programs)
- work authorization (CPT/OPT for F-1 students)
These requirements can limit access even for highly qualified students.
Internship & Fellowship Opportunities
- Dream Summer (UCLA Labor Center)
Internship program focused on immigrant rights- open to students with SSN or ITIN
- Immigrant Student Success Center Opportunities (CUNY)
Internships and fellowships with flexible eligibility - Byron Hanke Fellowship
- $3,000–$5,000 award
- open regardless of immigration status
- Immigrants Rising Resource List
Database of scholarships and fellowships for immigrant students - Higher Ed Immigration Portal (FAQ)
Guidance on funding and experiential opportunities
How to Find Opportunities
- Carefully review eligibility requirements
- Look for phrases like:
- “open to all students regardless of citizenship”
- “international students welcome”
- Contact program coordinators if eligibility is unclear
- Prioritize university-based or privately funded programs
- Seek programs designed for underserved or immigrant students
Career & Campus Support
- CUNY career services and immigrant student centers
- Resume and application support
- Internship advising and mentorship
Accessibility & Inclusion
Some programs are more accessible because they are:
- privately funded
- university-based
- designed for underrepresented students
However, gaps still exist in access and transparency across many opportunities.
Why This Page Matters
Internships and career experiences are critical for future opportunities, yet many immigrant students are excluded due to structural barriers. Providing clear guidance and accessible resources helps students navigate these challenges and find pathways that align with their goals.
This website was created through the collaborative efforts of the 2026 LGBTQIA+ Health Fellows Program, an initiative founded and developed through the leadership and vision of Dr. Jan Oosting, Associate Professor, Nursing; Mateo Tebar, LGBTQIA+ Student Resource Assistant; and Anthony Sweeney, Associate Director of Student Life. Special recognition is extended to Tiya Williams, LGBTQIA+ Health Fellows Program College Assistant, for coordinating resources and supporting the website development. Additional recognition goes to Jesse Evans-Rice, Open Lab Manager, and Christina Chala, CUNY Central’s Student Inclusion Office Manager, for their guidance, support, and contributions throughout the project. Their collective dedication and commitment helped make this resource possible, and it will continue to support the community for years to come.
This project is made possible due to generous funding from the New York City Council Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual Caucus and the Office of the Mayor, and supported by The LaGuardia and Wagner Archives.
