Trying to figure out the next step in your career? You’ve probably come across terms like “fellowship” and “internship”, and if you’re unclear about the difference, you’re not alone. Both open doors, but in different ways, depending on where you are in your journey—whether you’re still in school, just graduated, or looking to advance or pivot your career. Understanding the distinction can help you choose the opportunity that best aligns with your goals.
At Remitly, we’re here to support people chasing their dreams at home or abroad. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what fellowships and internships are all about, how they’re different, and how to choose the one that’s right for you.
What is a fellowship?
A fellowship is a merit-based monetary award or position granted to scholars, researchers, artists, or professionals to support their advanced study, research, or work in a specific field.
Defining characteristics of a fellowship
Purpose: Designed for individuals pursuing independent research, advanced academic study, specialized training, or significant projects within their area of expertise. The focus is usually on developing deep knowledge or making a contribution to a field.
Structure: They range from structured programs with specific deliverables to more open-ended support for self-directed work.
Prestige: Many fellowships are highly competitive and prestigious, recognizing exceptional talent or potential.
Outcome-oriented: Often geared towards producing new research, creative works, policy recommendations, or developing leadership skills in a particular domain.
Who typically pursues fellowships?
Fellowships are generally aimed at individuals who have already attained a certain level of education or professional experience. This includes:
- Graduate students: Master’s and PhD candidates seeking funding for their studies or dissertation research
- Postdoctoral researchers: Candidates seeking to continue specialized research after completing their doctorate
- Academics and scholars: For pursuing specific research projects or scholarly work
- Mid-career professionals: Looking to gain specialized skills, undertake a public service project, or pivot into a niche field like journalism, public policy, or the arts
- Artists and creatives: Those seeking dedicated time and resources to develop new creative works
Examples of fellowship programs for students
Many renowned fellowship programs exist across various disciplines. Some well-known examples include:
Fulbright Program: Offers students, scholars, and professionals opportunities to undertake international graduate study, advanced research, university teaching, and primary and secondary school teaching worldwide.
The Rhodes Scholarship: This postgraduate award allows high-potential learners to study at the University of Oxford.
MacArthur Fellows Program: Often called the “Genius Grant”, this fellowship awards exceptionally talented and creative individuals in a range of fields.
NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program: Supported by the National Science Foundation, the GRFP targets outstanding graduate students in STEM disciplines.
Soros Justice Fellowships: Support individuals working on different facets of criminal justice reform in the US.
What is an internship?
An internship is a temporary work experience program offered by companies, organizations, or government agencies to individuals—often for students or recent graduates—seeking entry-level exposure and practical skills in a particular industry or job function.
Defining characteristics of an internship
Purpose: Internships primarily provide practical, hands-on experience and an introduction to a specific career field or industry. They focus on learning by doing.
Structure: They involve working within an organization, often under the supervision of more experienced professionals, on real or simulated work projects.
Duration: Can last from a few weeks to a full year, and usually aligns with academic semesters and breaks. Summer internships are a good example.
Learning and training: Emphasis is on skill development, understanding workplace dynamics, and gaining industry knowledge.
Entry-level experience and skill-building
Internships serve as a bridge between academic study and professional life. They allow ambitious individuals to do the following:
- Apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting.
- Develop job-specific skills like software proficiency or project management.
- Learn about the culture and expectations of a particular industry or company.
- Start building a professional resume and portfolio.
Common industries for internships
Internships are prevalent across a wide range of sectors, especially those where hands-on knowledge and practical expertise are required. These include:
- Business and finance: Marketing, accounting, investment banking
- Technology: Software engineering, data science, UI/UX design
- Media and communications: Journalism, public relations, advertising
- Healthcare: Medical professionals, hospital administration, research support
- Arts and culture: Museums, galleries, theaters
- Non-profit organizations: Advocacy, program support, fundraising
- Government and public service
- Engineering and manufacturing
Difference between fellowship and internship at a glance
While both provide valuable experiences, their core aspects differ. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Fellowship | Internship |
| Primary Purpose | Advanced study, research, specialized training, or project development. | Entry-level work experience, skill development, and industry exposure. |
| Eligibility | Graduate students, postdocs, academics, and mid-career professionals. | Undergraduate or graduate students, recent graduates, and career changers. |
| Audience | Scholars, researchers, artists, and specialized professionals. | Students, aspiring professionals, and those seeking initial job experience. |
| Duration | Often longer-term (one to two years, sometimes more) or shorter, intensive periods. | Generally shorter-term, from a few weeks to a semester, summer break, or up to a year. |
| Payment/Stipend | Provides a stipend and living allowance, and covers tuition/research costs. | Can be paid or unpaid, though paid internships are increasingly the norm. |
| Focus | Academic, research-oriented, project-based, or focused on leadership development. | Practical work experience, job training, and learning standard industry operations. |
| Outcome/Goal | New research, creative work, policy, or specialized expertise. | Gaining job skills, building a resume, networking, or securing a job offer. |
Benefits of a fellowship
Pursuing a fellowship can bring several advantages. Here are just a few.
Financial support and stipends
Many fellowships offer financial backing, which can include a living stipend, tuition waivers, research funding, and travel allowances. With this support, fellows can dedicate all their time and energy to their studies or projects without the immense financial pressure they might face otherwise.
Advancing specialized knowledge or research
Fellowships provide dedicated time and resources for deep immersion into a particular subject. This is invaluable for those looking to study abroad, become experts in a niche area, conduct groundbreaking research, or develop innovative solutions to complex problems.
Contributing to impactful projects
Many fellowships are tied to projects that aim to make a real-world impact, whether in academia, public policy, social justice, science, or the arts. Fellows often get the chance to contribute meaningfully to work that aligns with their passions and expertise. And if your fellowship takes you abroad, Remitly can help you understand how to send money internationally.
Benefits of internships
Internships are a pillar of early career development for many. By pursuing one, you can expect wide-ranging benefits, including:
Gaining practical work experience
The primary advantage of an internship is the chance to acquire hands-on experience in a professional setting. This practical exposure is highly valued by employers and helps bridge the gap between academic learning and the demands of the workplace.
Networking with industry professionals
Internships provide excellent opportunities to meet and interact with people already working in your field of interest. These connections can lead to mentorship, job leads, and a broader professional network that can be beneficial throughout your career.
Understanding industry operations
Interns get an inside look at how businesses or organizations function day-to-day. This can help you understand industry trends, company culture, different job roles, and whether a particular career path is a good fit for you.
Fellowship vs internship: How to choose
Deciding between these two types of opportunities depends on your individual circumstances and aspirations. Keep these factors in mind before picking one:
Alignment with career goals
Consider where you are in your career and where you want to go. If your goal is to deepen academic expertise, conduct specialized research, or become a leader in a scholarly or artistic field, a fellowship might be more suitable. But if you’re looking to gain entry-level job skills, explore a particular career path, or get your foot in the door of a specific industry, an internship is likely the better choice.
Current skill level and experience
Fellowships usually require a foundation of existing knowledge or expertise in a specific area. On the other hand, internships are structured around the needs of those with less direct experience, focused on learning and foundational skill development.
Matching with industry preferences
Fields like academia, research, public policy, and the arts have a strong tradition of fellowships. Meanwhile, many corporate sectors, non-profits, and government agencies rely heavily on internships for early talent acquisition.
Debunking common misconceptions
Several common myths surround fellowships and internships, but we’re here to clear them up. Going off the real picture will help you immensely during career planning.
Myth: Internships are always unpaid.
Reality: Unpaid internships still exist, especially in certain non-profit or arts sectors, but rules regarding their legality vary by country. However, many job placements are paid, sometimes quite well, especially in competitive fields like tech and finance. Today, the trend is increasingly toward funded opportunities.
Myth: Fellowships are only for academics in ivory towers.
Reality: While many fellowships are indeed academic or research-focused, there are also numerous professional fellowships designed for individuals in fields like journalism, public service, arts administration, entrepreneurship, and social impact. These often involve practical project work or leadership development outside a traditional university setting.
Myth: Internships are just about fetching coffee or making copies.
Reality: Good internships provide substantive work, mentorship, and learning opportunities. While some menial tasks might be involved, a quality internship focuses on meaningful skill development and practical contributions.
Myth: Fellowships are impossible to get unless you’re a genius.
Reality: Although many fellowships are highly competitive, they cater to a wide range of talents and expertise levels. There are fellowships for various stages, from graduate study to mid-career development. Many focus on a participant’s potential and the presence of a strong project proposal rather than past achievements alone.
The right path for professional growth
Do you want to enhance your academic and research skills? Or, are you seeking opportunities to gain practical, hands-on experience? Depending on your goals, a fellowship or internship can be a valuable opportunity. With a bit of research, you can pick the right path and make the most of this new opportunity.
FAQs
Can I apply to both fellowships and internships at the same time?
Absolutely! If you are a student or recent graduate exploring options, applying for both types of opportunities can be a smart strategy. A fellowship might support your advanced studies or a passion project, while an internship could provide immediate job skills and industry connections. Just be mindful of the different application requirements and timelines for each.
Do fellowships offer networking opportunities like internships?
Yes, though often in different ways. Fellowships frequently bring together a cohort of talented individuals in a specific field, leading to strong peer networks. Fellows also interact with leading scholars, artists, or professionals who serve as mentors or collaborators. While internships offer more networking within a company or industry, fellowships build networks within specialized academic or professional fields.
Are internships better for gaining entry into certain industries?
Internships are often a critical pathway to an entry-level job in many industries, particularly corporate sectors like business, technology, and media. Companies frequently use internship programs to recruit and evaluate potential full-time hires. However, a fellowship might be a more direct route to career advancement in fields like academia, advanced research, or specialized arts.
Can international students or professionals apply for fellowships and internships in other countries?
Yes, many fellowship and internship programs are open to international applicants. For example, the Fulbright Program is specifically designed for global exchange. Multinational companies also offer internships to students from around the world. However, visa requirements and eligibility criteria will vary, so check the specific details for each program you’re interested in.