Handshake, the career platform for Gen Z, released its 2025 Internship Index outlining the current internship landscape. Based on survey data from over 6,000 students and recent grads, plus job creation and application trends from across the Handshake network, there are several trends shaping the internship outlook for students.
Competition is rising
Internship competition has significantly increased. By January 2025, 41% of the Class of 2025 had already applied to at least one internship through Handshake; compared to just 34% of the Class of 2023 at the end of their senior year.
Meanwhile, more students are competing for fewer positions as internship availability dropped by more than 15% between January 2023 and January 2025.
The tech and professional services industries are especially competitive, receiving about twice as many applications per internship compared to the overall average. These sectors have seen internship postings decline by more than 30% since 2022, but maintain extremely strong applicant interest.
Timing is everything
September and January are peak intern recruiting months for most industries, but smaller employers tend to recruit year-round. Government, manufacturing, and transportation sectors also frequently hire outside these core fall and spring recruitment seasons. Prospective interns who worry they’ve missed their chance to land a summer gig should consider expanding their industry interests, or pursuing opportunities with smaller-name companies.
Four steps to succeed in the job search
Christine Cruzvergara, Chief Education Officer at Handshake and career expert, shares her four steps for any student looking for an internship or full-time job.
1. Curate Your Documents: Your resume, cover letter, and Handshake profile are your personal brand story. Focus on both breadth and depth to showcase who you are.
2. Do Your Research: Build knowledge at both macro and micro levels. Understand industry trends and hiring timelines, but also dive deep into specific employers and roles.
3. Network Strategically: Connect with industry professionals, alumni, and peers. Even a 15-minute virtual coffee chat can open doors. Remember, networking doesn’t end when you get an offer.
4. Start Your Search: …but only after completing steps 1-3. The biggest mistake students make is skipping research and networking, then wondering why they’re not hearing back from applications.
Internships remain a powerful tool for shaping career goals and building professional pathways. Want to learn more about navigating today’s internship landscape? Visit a university career center and explore the Handshake app.
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About Handshake
Handshake is the career platform for Gen Z. With a community of over 17 million students, alumni, employers, and career educators, Handshake’s network is where career advice and discovery turn into first, second, and third jobs. Nearly 1 million companies use Handshake to build their future workforce—from Fortune 500 to federal agencies, school districts to startups, healthcare systems to small businesses. Handshake is built for where you’re going, not where you’ve been.
Media Contact
Heidi Hagberg
Heidi.hagberg@joinhandshake.com