3 Questions To Ask Yourself When Choosing Between A Paid and Unpaid Internship

Consider this before jumping the gun.

By Aqilah Naqlis on 2023-11-27 at 7:12 AM

Updated on 2025-03-10 at 3:10 AM

It goes without saying that interns should be paid for their work. However, the reality is that not all internships come with a paycheck.

Internships are an incredible way to gain experience and build your career, but choosing between a paid and unpaid one can be tricky. The decision often depends on your financial situation, career goals, and the opportunities each internship offers.

Before you decide, ask yourself these three key questions to ensure you make the right choice for your future.

1. What Are My Financial Needs?

Let’s face it—money matters. If you have bills to pay, student loans to manage, or need to cover living expenses, a paid internship might be the way to go. It’s important to be realistic about your financial situation and whether you can afford to work for free, even if the internship offers valuable experience.

However, if you have the flexibility to prioritise gaining experience over immediate income for a short period, an unpaid internship could still be worth considering. For example, if the role offers specialised training or unique opportunities in your desired industry, it might be worth the sacrifice.

Pro tip: Sometimes, the experience and skills you gain can pay off in the long run, even if there’s no paycheck at the end of the month. Think of it as an investment in your future.

2. What Will I Gain Beyond Money?

While being paid is important, don’t overlook the other benefits an internship can provide. Think about the skills, connections, and opportunities each internship offers.

• Will it help you break into your dream industry?
• Does it come with mentorship or hands-on experience that can set you apart from other candidates?

An unpaid internship might not offer a salary, but it could open doors to career opportunities that a paid position might not. Look for internships that offer more than just a task list—consider the potential for networking, learning from industry professionals, and gaining real-world experience that could help you stand out in a competitive job market.

Remember, sometimes the long-term value of an unpaid internship can outweigh the immediate financial reward, especially if it aligns with your career goals.

3. How Does It Fit Into My Career Goals?

Your internship should align with where you want to go in your career. Ask yourself:

• Does this role help me build relevant skills?
• Will it enhance my resume or portfolio?

A paid internship in an unrelated field might not offer the same career advancement opportunities as an unpaid one that gets you closer to your professional aspirations. For example, a paid internship in retail might cover your bills, but an unpaid internship at a leading marketing agency could set the foundation for your dream career.

Consider the bigger picture—an internship in your chosen industry could be more beneficial in the long run, even if it doesn’t come with a paycheck. In some cases, unpaid internships can serve as stepping stones to paid opportunities, providing the hands-on experience and industry exposure you need to move forward.

If you’re still torn between a paid or unpaid internship, why not take our Work Personality Test? It’s a fun and quick way to discover what suits your goals, strengths, and career aspirations best.

For evergreen career advice no matter where you are in your journey, check out these blog posts on Hiredly:

• 5 Positive Signs An Employer Is Definitely Interested In Hiring You
• Why Your Career Depends On Your Personal Brand
• Understanding Salary Negotiation For Jobs In Malaysia: How To Get The Salary You Deserve

Ready to take the next step? Explore paid and unpaid internships that align with your career goals on Hiredly and sign up today to kickstart your journey!

By Aqilah Naqlis on 2023-11-27 at 7:12 AM