Resumes and Supporting Documents

When you apply for an internship in the USA, you’ll need to submit, at a minimum, a resume and a cover letter outlining your education, experience, and why you feel you’re the best candidate for the position. Many employers also require you to submit several references, either at the time you apply or following an interview. We’ve compiled a few guidelines and resources to assist you in preparing your resume and other documents.

Tips on Writing your Resume

  • Your resume should not be longer than one page.
  • Do not include personal information, such as your age/date of birth, marital status, religion or photos.
  • Highlight your education, professional skills, and past work experience.
  • Keep the content brief, yet provide enough detail to help employers understand your background and level of skill or experience.
  • Consult our guide, which explains how to format your resume and shows what information to put in each section.
  • Use our resume template to create your resume—simply type your information into the appropriate places.
  • Review this sample to see what your completed resume should look like.

Tips on Writing a Cover Letter

When you submit an application to an American employer, you must include a cover letter. The purpose of the letter is to describe why you are a good candidate for an internship or training program and what skills and talents you will bring to the company.

  • Tailor each cover letter to the specific job and company you are applying to.
  • Mention that although you are not a U.S. citizen that you are eligible for a J-1 Visa and that InterExchange will be able to assist you in the visa sponsorship process.
  • Explain the benefits an international intern can bring to an American company, including diversity, language skills, and an international perspective.
  • Mention that the company will not have to sponsor your visa—InterExchange can sponsor it for you.
  • Use this guide, which provides suggestions on how to organize and write your cover letter.

Tips on Letters of Reference

Since U.S. employers will likely not have a chance to interview you in person, you are more likely to be considered for an internship if you can provide letters of reference from past or current employers and professors.

  • Letters should indicate how your references know you, how long they have known you, and how you performed as a student or employee.
  • Letters should be written in English and printed on official letterhead.
  • Do not submit a letter of reference without the writer’s consent.
  • Ask your references if American employers may contact them. If so, verify their contact information (email address, phone number, etc.) and include it when you submit the letters of reference.

Get tips on searching for internships in the USA.