Chancellor’s Undergraduate Internship 2026 at UCSC

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The University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) has announced the upcoming application cycle for the Chancellor’s Undergraduate Internship Program (CUIP) 2026, an initiative designed to help full-time students build professional and leadership skills while contributing to vital campus programs.

The CUIP provides selected students with a unique blend of academic learning and workplace experience. Interns are placed in various departments and student-focused programs across the university while also participating in a two-unit leadership seminar that runs throughout the academic year. Each participant receives mentorship and access to professional development resources aimed at preparing them for future career paths.

Program Structure and Benefits

Students accepted into the program commit to a 300-hour internship, averaging around 10 hours per week. In return, they are awarded up to $5,500 in scholarship funding for the academic year, provided there is space within their financial aid package. The internship allows students to gain first-hand experience in leadership roles, build strong resumes, and network within the UCSC community.

Application Process

Applicants must prepare the following materials before applying:

A tailored cover letter for each position
An updated resume
Optional supplemental materials (if relevant)
The general CUIP application form (submitted once)

UCSC’s Career Success office provides guidance to students in preparing their application materials, including peer coaching sessions, sample documents, and drop-in support.

Application Timeline

The CUIP positions for the 2025–26 academic year are now closed, but the 2026–27 recruitment cycle will open in January 2026. Key dates for the application process include:

January 2026 – CUIP positions posted on Handshake; informational sessions hosted.
January – February 2026 – Applications accepted from students.
February – March 2026 – Host site interviews conducted.
March 2026 – Student and host rankings submitted.
Early April 2026 – Decisions and offers announced.
May 2026 – CUIP orientation.
Fall 2026 – Internships officially begin.