Internship Grant Fund (IGF) FAQs

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Who is eligible for funding through the IGF? What if I am on leave?

Any current Vassar First Year, Sophomore or Junior with an unpaid or low-pay internship secured may apply to the Internship Grant Fund (IGF). Students in good standing who are currently on leave from the College ARE eligible to apply. Graduating seniors are not eligible for the IGF, but they may apply to the Ellen Rudnick ’72 Student Entrepreneur Fund and the Vassar Fund for Living and Working Abroad. 

My internship is remote; can I still apply?

Yes, both remote and on-site (and hybrid) internships are eligible for IGF. Note that on-site internships must align with the College Travel Policy.

Do I have to receive financial aid at Vassar to receive funding through the IGF?

No. While financial aid is a consideration in the application review process, it is not a requirement to receive funding. Students who receive financial aid do receive priority consideration, and certain funding sources are restricted to students who receive financial aid. Awards for students who do not receive financial aid generally fall on the low end of the range. Learn more about Internship Grant Fund (IGF) financial support.

Can I combine multiple Vassar summer funding opportunities?

While you may apply to any number of Vassar-supported funds and opportunities both within and outside of those administered by the CCE (eg, OCEL, Fellowships, etc.), you generally accept just one award.

I received IGF last year; can I apply again this year?

Current sophomores and juniors (rising juniors and seniors) who received IGF funding last year may reapply.

What if I don’t have an internship secured yet?

Only those students who have secured an internship are eligible to apply for funding through the IGF; if your internship isn’t secured, your application will not be reviewed. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

How competitive is the IGF?

Applications and requests for funding typically outweigh available funds. Each year, more and more funding is available to support student internships.

How much money will be awarded through the IGF?

For summer 2024, the CCE expects to award more than $200k through the Internship Grant Fund.

How much are Internship Grant Fund awards?

There is no specified minimum or maximum amount that students can be awarded; typical awards range from $250–$4,500. Amounts range based on financial need, proposed budget, and time commitment (i.e., part-time vs. full-time).

My internship is paid. Can I still apply for funding through the IGF?

In some cases, students may still be awarded funding even if they have a paid internship if their application and budget clearly explains why they are seeking additional money.

I have secured an internship that is paid but I won’t be able to make or save any money, can the IGF help with that?

The IGF is designed to help with the cost of living expenses (housing, food, transportation, etc.) while participating in an unpaid or low-pay internship opportunity. It is not intended to be saved for later use. 

I have secured an opportunity through a fee-based or tuition-based program. Can I apply to the IGF?

The IGF cannot be used to support fee-based or tuition-based programs or academic courses. If you have a question about your specific situation, please email igf@vassar.edu prior to applying.

I am living at home and doing an internship. Can I still apply to the IGF for money to help with my fall expenses?

Students who are living at home may still have eligible expenses to budget for, including travel and food costs, or contributing to rent. The IGF is intended to help defray living expenses associated with summer internships. Students may not apply to the IGF solely for the purpose of banking or saving money for the next academic year. Pell-eligible students can apply for a one-time summer earnings relief credit of up to $2000 on top of their IGF award alongside an eligible internship opportunity.

Can IGF be used to support research with Vassar faculty or projects affiliated with a Vassar department or student organization?

No, the Internship Grant Fund cannot be used to support research with Vassar faculty that would otherwise be funded through programs such as Ford, URSI, and outside grants to Vassar faculty. Similarly, the IGF can not be used to underwrite compensation for projects completed under the auspices of a Vassar department or student organization. If you have questions about the eligibility of your proposed experience, please email igf@vassar.edu before applying.

Can I receive academic credit for an opportunity supported through IGF?

It may be possible to receive academic credit for your summer internship. Check with the Office of Community Engaged Learning for more information.

Are there any resources that can help me with the Budget Worksheet?

Yes. In order to create the most realistic budget possible, be sure to do your research about actual and projected costs. Resources like GoinGlobal’s City Guides can help you determine the average monthly cost of living information, and free tools from Cash Course can help you with budgeting.

When will I hear back about my application?

Review of applications will begin in mid-March. After that time, applicants can expect to hear back within 2–3 weeks of submitting their application.

Can I receive funding for an internship abroad?

Yes! The Center for Career Education follows the Dean of Studies Office Travel Advisory Policy. When considering your summer travel and internship plans, please be mindful of updates to the College’s policy on student travel.

What should I do if I need help completing the IGF application?

Email igf@vassar.edu—we’re happy to help!

Who should I contact if I still have questions?

Please email igf@vassar.edu and a CCE staff member will get back to you.