• Many students cannot afford to accept an unpaid internship while also meeting living, transportation, and other expenses.
• Paid opportunities generally attract a broader and more diverse applicant pool.
• Compensation communicates that interns’ work has value.
• Financial support can improve recruitment, participation, and completion. 

When full compensation is not possible, organizations should consider transportation benefits, meal support, technology or equipment, professional-development funding, or other assistance that reduces the cost of participation. 

All UCDC students complete internships as part of an academic program during the academic year (all terms but summer). Academic credit is awarded by the student’s university and does not replace compensation. Internship providers are responsible for determining and maintaining compliance with all applicable wage-and-hour requirements.