IES Milan Internships

Aerial view of Milan's skyline featuring the Duomo Cathedral with its intricate spires. Surrounding buildings display varied architecture under a clear blue sky.

Italy, Milan

Offered through IES Abroad, the IES Milan Internships program is an approved UW affiliate program. On this 8-week summer program, you will be placed into an internship in your field of interest, allowing you to develop your professional and cultural skills and gain personal and career awareness. Alongside your internship, you'll take an Italian language class and an internship seminar course to get the most out of this immersive experience. In your free time, explore the beautiful metropolitan city of Milan, where art, culture, and business collide.

You'll be working closely with both IAP and IES on this program. You can access the program's main information page through the IES Milan Internships website to learn more about the internship placements, academics, housing, excursions, and location.

Learning Objectives

We have overall Goals and Expectations for Study Abroad Participants, covering the personal, academic and professional aspects of study abroad. Additionally on this program, you can:

Analyze and differentiate general aspects of workplace culture in their host location from both the institutional or structural level and the societal or group level (i.e., how people think, act, and interact)
Identify and examine how workplace cultures impact workplace dynamics and professional expectations and explain how they operate in their specific host organization
Evaluate their workplace performance and how their internship experiences have impacted their competencies in critical thinking, teamwork, cultural understanding and communication, and career planning
Demonstrate a deeper understanding of the complexity of issues and challenges facing their location and organization in a global context

Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to providing quality study abroad and domestic study away programs for every UW-Madison student. We work strategically to identify, address, and remove barriers that may prevent participation and to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for students. Our staff actively engages with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds and prioritizes the continuous development of our knowledge and cultural competence. We also recognize the importance of increasing access to study abroad for historically underrepresented student populations. We are committed to diversity and inclusion so that every student can engage with and understand their identity through a new lens and continue to develop and make progress on their personal, professional, and academic goals.

Sustainability

We recognize that the future of study abroad, domestic study away, and international internship programming requires a Commitment to Sustainability. We are devoted to examining, developing, and improving sustainability in all our endeavors, aligning with campus priorities and following through with UW-Madison's climate action and Resilience Commitment. Join our efforts and learn more about how to study abroad sustainably.

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Eligibility

2.5 cumulative GPA
Previous study of the Italian language is not required to apply, basic comprehension and conversational ability may be preferred for competitive placements
Sophomore, Junior, Senior
Good academic and disciplinary standing
At the time of application and the semester prior to participation, UW-Madison students must be currently enrolled. Transfer Students to UW-Madison need to be currently enrolled at their home institution

Advising Location

Program Structure

Provider

Subjects

IES Milan offers internships in a variety of areas, catering to many majors and providing a wide range of opportunities.

Classroom Language

Housing

Apartments, Residence Hall

Program Duration

Summer: Mid-May to Mid-July

Application Deadline(s)

Summer 2026

2/6/2026

Cost Details

Future durations will be posted at a later date.

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The summer internship program provides you with the opportunity to spend 8 weeks interning in Milan. You'll earn a total of 6 UW-Madison credits by taking two courses: an Italian language class, and an internship seminar course. You'll take both classes alongside other IES interns at the IES Abroad Milan Center. For specific details on the courses and academic structure of this program, visit the IES Milan Internships webpage.

After you've been accepted to the program, IES will work with you individually to match your skills and background with an appropriate organization. You will be required to confirm your participation on this program prior to receiving your specific internship placement. The timeline for receiving your internship placement varies and some students on your program may hear earlier than others. As with all study abroad experiences, flexibility and open-mindedness are key.

SOHE Students: You should request SAB 370 for your internship credit and connect with your academic advisor once your credits from abroad transfer. Your advisor will make the appropriate substitution for your required major internship.

Course Equivalents

Use the links below to see a list of courses that past students have taken on this program and the UW equivalents. Note: This list only includes pre-approved courses for your program and may not be an exhaustive list of courses, departments or equivalents. Courses may not be available the semester you are abroad. You will receive instructions on the course equivalent process after acceptance. View Course Equivalents

Location

This program takes place in Milan, in northern Italy. Known internationally for fashion and design, Milan is also the home of Italy’s stock exchange and the grand Gothic cathedral called the Duomo. Art and food enthusiasts alike will be able to spend endless days in Milan; the city is home to some of the world’s most famous and prestigious art collections, as well as a culinary scene that blends classic Italian with local flare. Sports fans will also delight in all that Milan has to offer: the grandiose San Siro stadium is home to two FIFA World Cup winning teams, the A.C. Milan and the F.C. Internazionale Milano. If you want a peaceful moment, look no further than the city’s Sempione Park or Montanelli Gardens. These beautiful green refuges were created in the 19th and 18th century respectively, and feature colorful flowers, public buildings (such as a library and a planetarium), and endless opportunities for relaxing.

Cost of living varies widely by location. Be sure to consult a variety of resources when researching cost of living.

Housing

UW Madison students are required to live in IES provided housing for the duration of their program. You have three options for housing on this program:

Apartments
Share a furnished apartment located in a safe and lively district with three to six IES Abroad students. These apartments are single-sex, and you generally share a bedroom with another student. Single rooms in an apartment carry an additional fee.

Meals are not included, so you normally eat lunch at your internship (either bringing food from home or eating at a local cafe), and prepare your own breakfast and dinner at home. Located on main public transportation routes near the Center, apartments offer fully-equipped kitchens, Internet access, a dishwasher, and a washing machine.

Collegio di Milano - Honors Residence Hall
This residence for Italian and international honors students offers single rooms with private bathrooms and balconies. The facilities include a computer room, library, small gym, cafeteria, private park, security system, kitchenette, and an auditorium for special cultural programs.

Breakfast and dinner are provided daily and lunch is available on weekends. Space is limited and students are chosen by the Collegio based on academic merit. Because of the extra amenities, this option carries an additional fee.

Mixed-Use Residence Hall
This residence hall is for students only in June, but during July is open to tourists and business travels as well. This residence offers single rooms with private bathrooms and a small kitchen space within the room including a stove, sink, fridge & freezer, and a microwave. The facilities include a gym, study rooms, lounges, game room, cinema room, and a basketball court. Because of the extra amenities, this option carries an additional fee.

Meals are not included, so you normally eat lunch at your internship (either bringing food from home or eating at a local cafe), and prepare your own breakfast and dinner at home.

Program Considerations

In a physical sense, the on-site experience may be very different from life on the UW campus. You may walk or take public transportation more than you are used to in Madison. The physical activity level will vary by program, but in general you should be prepared for extended periods of time walking, potentially on uneven terrain.

For many students, discovering and experiencing new foods is a part of the experience. It is important to consider any dietary restrictions, whether they are due to health conditions, religious beliefs, or individual needs, and look into whether you can get the foods you need locally.

How you identify yourself in Madison may differ from how people will view you on-site. Consider exploring our Identity Resources to reflect on how your identities may impact your experience. Students with disabilities should keep in mind that attitudes and laws related to disabilities vary by country, and these differences may impact the level of accommodation available in a particular location. More details are available on our page on Study Abroad for Students with Disabilities.

We encourage you to contact your Study Abroad Advisor and share your accommodation needs with us as early as possible. This will allow us to help you explore your options in advance.

Excursions and Activities

IES Abroad arranges several field trips and excursions each summer. Field trips can vary from year to year; some are included in your program fee and others may have an additional fee involved if you opt into them. Past field trips have included Cinque Terre and Lake Maggiore.

On-Site Support

The IES Abroad Milan Center director and staff assist students on this program.

Orientation

IAP expects you to be an active participant in preparing yourself for your study abroad experience. As a participant on an IAP program, you will receive a pre-departure orientation, either in-person or online. The type and format of this orientation will vary by program and will be provided to you upon acceptance to the program.

Visa

A visa is not required for U.S. citizens for this program. U.S. citizens must have a U.S. passport valid for at least six months beyond the end of the program. Non U.S. Passport holders may have different visa requirements. Ask your Study Abroad Advisor, if you have any questions.

Getting to Your Program

You are responsible for arranging round-trip transportation to the program site. IES will provide travel guidelines.

Insurance

You will be enrolled in the UW System required health insurance through Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) and the cost of the insurance coverage is included in program fees.

If you are a citizen of a country other than the United States and will remain/study in, or travel to your country of record (the location of your permanent residence), the insurance provided for you is the same as the “study away” insurance provided to U.S. citizens studying on domestic U.S. programs. You may want to explore alternative or additional international health and medical insurance that will cover your needs both while in and during any period of transit to/from your country of record. This may include participation in a national healthcare plan or coverage provided under a personal healthcare plan in your country of record. If you have questions about the coverage of the “study away” plan, please speak with your Study Abroad Advisor.

All other students participating on an international program will automatically be enrolled in Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI), the university's international health, medical and repatriation insurance policy.

Program cost information includes program fees, as well as out-of-pocket expenses with notes to help explain costs. Program fees are estimated and can be adjusted at any time. Once accepted, you will receive a cost sheet that includes confirmed program fees and additional out-of-pocket expenses. "The IAP Program Fee" and all processes and policies stated on this cost sheet apply to all participants on programs managed by International Academic Programs (IAP) and in partnership with the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, the College of Engineering, and Wisconsin School of Business. All students participating on approved programs are all eligible to apply for scholarships administered through IAP when they meet the scholarship eligibility and selection criteria.

Summer 2026 Cost Details

Financial Aid

Sources of available funding for study abroad include scholarships, grants and loans. To increase your chances of receiving financial aid, we recommend filling out your FAFSA to begin the financial planning process early.

For detailed information on financial resources, visit our Funding Study Abroad.

Scholarships

This scholarship list includes scholarships we know are relevant to this program. It is not an exhaustive list of all available scholarship opportunities for study abroad. Although we make our best effort to ensure the list is up-to-date, this information changes frequently, and it is the responsibility of the applicant to verify information. For additional scholarship information, please visit our scholarship page.

National Scholarships
Benjamin A. Gilman Int'l Scholarship Prgm

UW-Madison
CALS Study Abroad Scholarships
SoHE Summer Internship Scholarship

Affiliate
IES Scholarships

IAP Administered
Study Abroad Scholars
IAP Gilman Incentive
IAP WISc Scholarship

Returned Student Network

View the Returned Student Network to contact a returned student

Student Quotes

“While the process of being placed for an internship and preparing to work abroad was certainly stressful and even anxiety-provoking, the past month of my internship experience has proven to be one of the best decisions that I have made throughout my time in college”. (Anna A.)

“Another one of the huge reasons I chose to study abroad with IES in Milan was because of the opportunity to complete an internship. I knew this was something I wanted to do and would give me a unique experience to put on my resume. The IES internship coordinator was extremely helpful in finding a placement for me that matched up with my career goals and desires”. (Alexandria C.)

“Take me back! I gained international workforce exposure and an ability to communicate with other cross culturally. It was absolutely worthwhile, and I will use these experiences in my future healthcare career”. (Sofia M.)

Photos

Program photo album

How to Apply

First, make sure you have reviewed the information for Prospective Students on the IAP website.

There is also specific Academic Planning information that you should review.

Next login to the IAP Online Application.

Wondering when applications will open for this program?

View our application schedule.

After the Deadline

IAP completes a review of all applications to determine if students meet minimum eligibility requirements.

Session	Application Status
Summer 2026	Application Closed

Disclosure

Students Requiring Accommodations: Consult and register with the McBurney Disability Resource Center McBurney Services if you will need academic, housing, and/or other disability-related accommodations or services abroad.

International Students: Talk with International Student Services about your visa status and study abroad.

Military-Connected Students with Veteran’s Benefits: Talk with University Veteran Services about how your benefits can be used for study abroad.

This program is offered by International Academic Programs. We have a team that works with each program. Each member of this program team is able to help students with different kinds of questions. Visit the advising webpage to learn how to schedule an appointment.

Enrollment Manager

For questions on application advising, program eligibility, course equivalency request process, grade processing.

Ella Quinn (Make an appointment with Ella Quinn, or email ella.quinn@wisc.edu)

Study Abroad Advisor

For questions on program experience, academics, housing, visa, health safety, student identity, funding and scholarships, returned student resources.

Amani DeHolton (Make an appointment with Amani DeHolton, or email amani.deholton@wisc.edu)

Financial Specialist

For questions on billing, funding and scholarships, financial policies.

Julia Schmidt (julia.schmidt@wisc.edu)

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Benjamin A. Gilman Int'l Scholarship Prgm

Description

The U.S. Department of State's Benjamin A. Gilman Internatonal Scholarship is a grant program that enables students of limited financial means to study or intern abroad, thereby gaining skills critical to our national security and economic competitiveness. The Gilman Scholarship Program is open to U.S. citizen undergraduate students who are receiving Federal Pell Grant funding at a two-year or four-year college or university to participate in study and intern abroad programs worldwide.

Award Amount
Varies (up to $5,000)

Eligibility Criteria

Scholarships available for undergraduate students who receive federal Pell Grant funding. Scholarships up to $5,000 for a semester/year in addition to a possible $3,000 Critical Need Language Supplement.

The Gilman Scholarship Program aims to support a diverse range of students who have been traditionally under-represented in study abroad, including but not limited to:
1. Students with high financial need
2. Students studying in non-traditional countries, especially those outside of Western Europe, Australia and New Zealand (Note: Students may not study in a country currently on the Department of State's travel warning list)
3. Students with diverse ethnic backgrounds
4. All recipients are required to carry out a Follow-on Service Project that promotes international education and the Gilman Scholarship Program at the students' home institution or in their home community.

How to Apply

For more information and to apply, visit the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship website.

All applicants are strongly encouraged to contact their Study Abroad Advisor for assistance with the application essays.

SoHE Summer Internship Scholarship

Description
Human Ecology is proud to offer internship scholarships ranging in amount from $500 to $3500 to students engaging in unpaid and/or out-of-state internships for credit. Internships abroad are eligible if done for credit via UW Undergradute Internship Credit Program.

SoHE's Summer Internship Scholarship is guaranteed for participating SOHE interns enrolled through the UW Undergradute Internship Credit Program. Other scholarships and grants received will be considered when determining the exact scholarship amount.

Scholarship Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Student(s) must be enrolled in one of the six School of Human Ecology majors
Student(s) must have an offer for an unpaid and/or out-of-state summer internship prior to applying for the scholarship
Student(s) must have at least junior standing (54+ credits completed) at the time the internship begins
Student(s) must enroll in and complete the internship course within their major while engaged in the internship once they are given approval to do so
The internship must occur primarily in the months of June through August and provide a minimum of 150 on-site hours
The internship must reflect and enhance academic knowledge related to student’s major and discipline and meet the minimum criteria to be considered for credit
Student must not have already completed an internship-for-credit or otherwise satisfied the internship requirement within the School.

Once open, School of Human Ecology students can access the application on Wisconsin Scholarship Hub site. The scholarship application for Summer opens in March. If you have questions on the scholarship application, please contact the School’s Scholarship Coordinator at scholarships@sohe.wisc.edu. Award Amount
Varies ($1,000 - $3,500)

How to Apply
School of Human Ecology students can access the application on Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH) site. The scholarship application for summer opens in March, fall opens in August, and spring opens in December. There are two rounds per cycle to allow for students to apply based on when an internship is secured for the following term. Each cycle will offer an early deadline roughly 1 month prior to the start of the term, and another when internship verification forms are due, which is one week prior to the start of the term.