CEI Internship Frequently Asked Questions

How many interns are selected?

Intern hiring varies per season and the numbers vary depending on research needs. On average, we hire between 2-3 interns per research area. 

How many people apply for these internships? Is there a lot of competition?

It depends on the season, but we receive a number of resumes from qualified applicants across the globe who are excited about the work we do. 

When will the successful applicants be notified?

It depends on the season, but all applicants are notified at least two months prior to the internship start date whether they will be joining our team. 

Are the dates for the internship flexible?

We prefer that interns complete the entire duration of the fall, summer, and spring seasons. We have specific start dates because we like to offer orientation at the same time for everyone. 

Yes, once you’re on board, we offer flexibility with our internship programme. We encourage interns to experience all of the various research, community outreach, and education programmes that we offer. 

Can I apply to more than one internship?

Yes, you may apply to all positions via the different email addresses. When is the deadline for sending in applications, and when will you start making decisions? The deadline varies based on the hiring season, but we encourage you to submit your application sooner rather than later. Please refer to our webpage for the most updated deadlines. The successful candidates will be notified at least two months prior to the internship start date with details about joining our team. 

If this is an unpaid internship, what does my monthly cost cover?

It covers room, board, three meals per day, laundry facilities, transportation, internet, and all of the outdoor activities (kayaking, snorkeling, down island trips, camping etc.)  We also offer professional development courses that cover topics like photography, blogging, glass cutting, creating composting sites, etc. 

Does CEI offer scholarships?

We encourage all interested applicants to solicit funds from their universities, community groups, or other networks within their host country before applying for a scholarship. Limited scholarship opportunities are available per year. 

We consider your training and background in the technical research areas being considered. But other things being equal, we prefer people who have demonstrated past success working independently in close-quarter living conditions requiring advanced levels of decision making and maturity. For all of our positions, the exercise of interpersonal and common sense skills are required. We assess degree of fit through our application process, with phone and skype interviews as part of a second-stage pre-screening process (Not all applicants will receive an interview).

If you know someone who knows us well (an Island School alum, someone who has completed a research internship at Cape Eleuthera Institute, etc), a written recommendation from them sent directly to us will add weight to your application. 

Past applicants who have engaged in correspondence (unsolicited emails outside of the initial application process, or calling by phone) have tended to decrease their chances of being considered. 

If you haven't heard from us, but you have an imminent deadline to decide about another opportunity that you have been offered, please feel free to send that information to us. We can't guarantee that we will be able to give you a positive response, but we appreciate the chance to be aware.

Similarly, if something significant changes and you a) have a new reference to share, b) have completed schooling or training relevant to the position, c) got an award or recognition, we appreciate hearing about that. We are committed to getting in touch when we are ready to learn more about you. Unsolicited phone calls and emails tend to slow down our process. 

We can't predict the timing mostly because we adjust according to the volume of applications and conditions on the ground. We will on occasion close a position or move to a round of semi-finalists without having completed hiring, in which case we would contact you to let you know that your application wasn't successful this time.