©2017 New England Aquarium, an affiliate of the HandsOn Connect, 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110 | 617 - 973 - 5200
Log in with
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is an internship?
Are there set start and end dates for internships?
What is the difference between volunteering and interning?
When is the best time to apply?
The date listed as apply by has passed; can I still apply?
May I update my application once it has been submitted?
Can I apply even if I’m not a college student?
What is your selection process for interns and how competitive is it?
Do you provide housing or transportation?
Can international students apply?
Are internships paid?
How are January term internships different from other terms?
Can I defer my internship to the next season?
Can I reapply if I am not accepted into the program?
Who should I address my cover letter to?
Can my letter of recommendation be sent separately?
Can I email my application?
I am studying abroad; can I still be interviewed if I’m selected?
Can I apply to more than one position?
Can an internship lead to a job opportunity?
I have interned before; can I apply for another internship?
How long is an internship?
Are there set start and end dates for internships?
What is the difference between volunteering and interning?
When is the best time to apply?
The date listed as apply by has passed; can I still apply?
May I update my application once it has been submitted?
Can I apply even if I’m not a college student?
What is your selection process for interns and how competitive is it?
Do you provide housing or transportation?
Can international students apply?
Are internships paid?
How are January term internships different from other terms?
Can I defer my internship to the next season?
Can I reapply if I am not accepted into the program?
Who should I address my cover letter to?
Can my letter of recommendation be sent separately?
Can I email my application?
I am studying abroad; can I still be interviewed if I’m selected?
Can I apply to more than one position?
Can an internship lead to a job opportunity?
I have interned before; can I apply for another internship?
Can I call you to get an update on the status of my application?
How long is an internship?
Internships are 12 (14 for some positions- please review each position prior to applying to be aware of any differing time commitments) weeks long and require a time commitment of two to four full days per week. For most positions, a “full day” is roughly 8 a.m. to 5 or 6 p.m.
Back to Top
Are there set start and end dates for internships?
No, schedules are dependent upon intern and supervisor availability. Interns must complete a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks from their start date.
Back to Top
What is the difference between volunteering and interning?
Our interns have a more complex application process from the volunteer application. We also expect that they come to us with a background relating to the positions for which they have applied. Interns generally work two to four days a week for a minimum of 12 weeks, and usually have more in-depth or demanding responsibilities because of their more relevant background.
Our volunteer applicants do not need to have a relevant background to volunteer, and we are mostly looking for interest, passion and curiosity! Volunteers commit one day a week for a minimum of six months. Although their duties may sometimes be less complex than an intern’s responsibilities, we rely heavily on our volunteers. Without them, the Aquarium would not run!
Back to Top
When is the best time to apply?
We start reviewing applications on the dates listed for each term. After that date, we will consider applications on a rolling basis, if there is room. The dates of the priority application dates for our internship terms can be found on our application requirements page.
Back to Top
The date listed as apply by has passed; can I still apply?
Short answer: Yes! We continually accept applications until all positions have been filled. To know if a position has been filled check the position's description. One of the first lines will say "Apply Now For:", and as long as the cycle that is listed is the one you would like to apply for you may still apply. If the position is not listing the cycle (written usually as Season Year, as in Summer 1969), then the position has been filled for the cycle and you will need to apply again in the future, or the position is no longer recruiting for the cycle.
Back to Top
May I update my application once it has been submitted?
Once an application has been submitted it may not be updated. If there are specific items candidates would like to update or documents one would like to submit (additional letters of recommendation, updated resume, etc.), they may be sent to intern@neaq.org for uploading.
Back to Top
May I apply even if I’m not a college student?
Yes. While most of our interns are college students, you are welcome to apply as a recent graduate or career changer. We are usually unable to accept high school students. You do not need to be receiving college credit in order to participate in the program (with the exception of our Giant Ocean Tank Intern position). Boston, Cambridge and suburban youth may want to consider the summer teen intership program.
Back to Top
What is your selection process for interns and how competitive is it?
After we receive an application, we will review it and invite appropriate candidates for an interview. If the candidate is potentially a suitable fit for an internship with us, we will pass on their application for a second interview with a supervisor. We hope to give final decisions roughly a month and a half to two months after the priority application date, depending on the season.
Back to Top
Do you provide housing or transportation?
No, the New England Aquarium is unable to provide housing or transportation to interns. However, our main building is easily accessible by public transportation.
Back to Top
Can international students apply?
Yes, international students are welcome to apply. Please note that we cannot offer assistance with housing, transportation or visas.
Back to Top
Are internships paid?
No, internships at the New England Aquarium are unpaid; however, they are well compensated through hands-on experience, networking connections, and a unique learning environment. Our apprentice-style internships are ideal if you would like to gain experience working for a large non-profit, educational, and conservation-focused institution. We also offer our interns many benefits, such as free Aquarium membership, and we are able to provide college credit.
Back to Top
How are January term internships different from other terms?
Winter Internships extend for a period of just four to six weeks, with a required time commitment of 125 hours. This usually means that Winter Interns work more days per week than interns in the spring, summer, or fall term. Also, not all internships are available for the Winter Session.
Back to Top
May I defer my internship to the next season?
No, if you decline an internship offer you must reapply to be considered in the future.
Back to Top
May I reapply if I am not accepted into the program?
Yes. We ask that you send in a full, updated application each cycle that you wish to apply for.
Back to Top
Whom should I address my cover letter to?
You may address your cover letter to “Office of Volunteer Programs and Internships.”
Back to Top
Can my letter of recommendation be sent separately?
Yes, your letter can be sent separately, just be sure to leave a note explaining this in your application materials. You or the author may send the letter via email to intern@neaq.org.
Back to Top
May I email my application?
We request that you complete the online application form to be considered for positions. If your current situation makes this difficult, please inquire about different options by emailing your request to intern@neaq.org.
Back to Top
I am studying abroad; can I still be interviewed if I’m selected?
Yes, we are willing to conduct interviews over the phone or via Zoom if applicants are abroad.
Back to Top
May I apply to more than one position?
Yes, you may apply for up to three positions. You will need to complete the application for each individual position. Please list the positions in the order of your preference in your cover letter, unless you choose to submit a cover letter for each position.
Back to Top
Can an internship lead to a job opportunity?
Some of our current employees started as volunteers or interns, but it is very rare for interns to transition to staff. We consider interning to be an excellent professional development opportunity; however, volunteering or interning with us does not lead directly to paid work. Job openings are limited and opportunities are usually related to museum operations. Current job openings can be found here.
Back to Top
I have interned before; may I apply for another internship?
Yes, you are welcome to apply for another internship in a different department. Interns are allowed to intern up to three times with the New England Aquarium but may only hold one internship at a time.
How long is an internship?
Internships are 12 (14 for some positions- please review each position prior to applying to be aware of any differing time commitments) weeks long and require a time commitment of two to four full days per week. For most positions, a “full day” is roughly 8 a.m. to 5 or 6 p.m.
Back to Top
Are there set start and end dates for internships?
No, schedules are dependent upon intern and supervisor availability. Interns must complete a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks from their start date.
Back to Top
What is the difference between volunteering and interning?
Our interns have a more complex application process from the volunteer application. We also expect that they come to us with a background relating to the positions for which they have applied. Interns generally work two to four days a week for a minimum of 12 weeks, and usually have more in-depth or demanding responsibilities because of their more relevant background.
Our volunteer applicants do not need to have a relevant background to volunteer, and we are mostly looking for interest, passion and curiosity! Volunteers commit one day a week for a minimum of six months. Although their duties may sometimes be less complex than an intern’s responsibilities, we rely heavily on our volunteers. Without them, the Aquarium would not run!
Back to Top
When is the best time to apply?
We start reviewing applications on the dates listed for each term. After that date, we will consider applications on a rolling basis, if there is room. The dates of the priority application dates for our internship terms can be found on our application requirements page.
Back to Top
The date listed as apply by has passed; can I still apply?
Short answer: Yes! We continually accept applications until all positions have been filled. To know if a position has been filled check the position's description. One of the first lines will say "Apply Now For:", and as long as the cycle that is listed is the one you would like to apply for you may still apply. If the position is not listing the cycle (written usually as Season Year, as in Summer 1969), then the position has been filled for the cycle and you will need to apply again in the future, or the position is no longer recruiting for the cycle.
Back to Top
May I update my application once it has been submitted?
Once an application has been submitted it may not be updated. If there are specific items candidates would like to update or documents one would like to submit (additional letters of recommendation, updated resume, etc.), they may be sent to intern@neaq.org for uploading.
Back to Top
May I apply even if I’m not a college student?
Yes. While most of our interns are college students, you are welcome to apply as a recent graduate or career changer. We are usually unable to accept high school students. You do not need to be receiving college credit in order to participate in the program (with the exception of our Giant Ocean Tank Intern position). Boston, Cambridge and suburban youth may want to consider the summer teen intership program.
Back to Top
What is your selection process for interns and how competitive is it?
After we receive an application, we will review it and invite appropriate candidates for an interview. If the candidate is potentially a suitable fit for an internship with us, we will pass on their application for a second interview with a supervisor. We hope to give final decisions roughly a month and a half to two months after the priority application date, depending on the season.
Back to Top
Do you provide housing or transportation?
No, the New England Aquarium is unable to provide housing or transportation to interns. However, our main building is easily accessible by public transportation.
Back to Top
Can international students apply?
Yes, international students are welcome to apply. Please note that we cannot offer assistance with housing, transportation or visas.
Back to Top
Are internships paid?
No, internships at the New England Aquarium are unpaid; however, they are well compensated through hands-on experience, networking connections, and a unique learning environment. Our apprentice-style internships are ideal if you would like to gain experience working for a large non-profit, educational, and conservation-focused institution. We also offer our interns many benefits, such as free Aquarium membership, and we are able to provide college credit.
Back to Top
How are January term internships different from other terms?
Winter Internships extend for a period of just four to six weeks, with a required time commitment of 125 hours. This usually means that Winter Interns work more days per week than interns in the spring, summer, or fall term. Also, not all internships are available for the Winter Session.
Back to Top
May I defer my internship to the next season?
No, if you decline an internship offer you must reapply to be considered in the future.
Back to Top
May I reapply if I am not accepted into the program?
Yes. We ask that you send in a full, updated application each cycle that you wish to apply for.
Back to Top
Whom should I address my cover letter to?
You may address your cover letter to “Office of Volunteer Programs and Internships.”
Back to Top
Can my letter of recommendation be sent separately?
Yes, your letter can be sent separately, just be sure to leave a note explaining this in your application materials. You or the author may send the letter via email to intern@neaq.org.
Back to Top
May I email my application?
We request that you complete the online application form to be considered for positions. If your current situation makes this difficult, please inquire about different options by emailing your request to intern@neaq.org.
Back to Top
I am studying abroad; can I still be interviewed if I’m selected?
Yes, we are willing to conduct interviews over the phone or via Zoom if applicants are abroad.
Back to Top
May I apply to more than one position?
Yes, you may apply for up to three positions. You will need to complete the application for each individual position. Please list the positions in the order of your preference in your cover letter, unless you choose to submit a cover letter for each position.
Back to Top
Can an internship lead to a job opportunity?
Some of our current employees started as volunteers or interns, but it is very rare for interns to transition to staff. We consider interning to be an excellent professional development opportunity; however, volunteering or interning with us does not lead directly to paid work. Job openings are limited and opportunities are usually related to museum operations. Current job openings can be found here.
Back to Top
I have interned before; may I apply for another internship?
Yes, you are welcome to apply for another internship in a different department. Interns are allowed to intern up to three times with the New England Aquarium but may only hold one internship at a time.
Externships are 6 week long intensive rotations. We currently offer two Externships, our Veterinary Technician Externship and our Veterinary Externship.
Am I eligible for an Externship?
To be eligible for the Veterinary Technician Externship, applicants must be in their senior year or recently graduated from an accredited Veterinary Technician program. To be eligible for the Veterinary Externship, applicants must be in their 3rd or 4th year of Veterinary school. Please note that at this time we are unable to accept applicants who have already obtained their D.V.M.
Can I call you to get an update on the status of my application?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide application status updates over the phone. Due to the volume of applications we receive, most applications require approximately three weeks for processing. Additionally, please refer to these dates for more information on when we begin reviewing applications for each cycle.
Back to Top
Still have questions?
- E-mail: intern@neaq.org
Connect with Us!