Internship ROI Calculator
Evaluate paid and unpaid internship offers by comparing earnings, out-of-pocket costs, and five-year salary impact versus alternative jobs.
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Internship ROI Snapshot
Immediate Net
$5,973
After taxes and out-of-pocket costs
5-Year Career Upside
$106,487
Expected salary lift × job offer probability
ROI
2519%
(Career + cash) ÷ total cost vs alternative
Break-Even
0.5 months
Time until value offsets costs (using expected premiums)
Cash vs Career Value Breakdown
Five-Year Expected Earnings Projection
Customize the Offer
Internship Details
Out-of-Pocket Costs
Career Impact
Decision Guide
Internship Is Worth It When…
- Five-year career boost exceeds immediate income gap.
- Company offers housing/relocation assistance to limit cash burn.
- Offer probability jumps into 70%+ territory.
Negotiate / Research
- Ask for housing stipends, relocation bonuses, or travel reimbursement.
- Confirm program has conversion pipeline to full-time roles.
- Check alumni data: placement rates, median starting salaries, company prestige.
Fallback Plan
- If unpaid, pair with part-time paid work to offset costs.
- Track all expenses for potential tax deductions (education, relocation).
- Build project portfolio to capture similar career boost without unpaid labor.
📚 Tax Rate Sources
Ordinary income is taxed at graduated rates from 10% to 37% based on filing status and income level.
→ Source: IRS - Federal Income Tax Rates and Brackets
• Short-term capital gains (assets held ≤1 year): Taxed at ordinary income rates (10-37%)
• Long-term capital gains (assets held >1 year): 0%, 15%, or 20% based on income
→ Source: IRS Topic 409 - Capital Gains and Losses
State income tax rates vary from 0% (no state income tax) to 13.3% (California top rate).
→ Source: Tax Foundation - State Income Tax Rates
Qualified dividends are taxed at the same preferential rates as long-term capital gains (0%, 15%, or 20%).
→ Source: IRS Topic 404 - Dividends
Note: Tax laws change frequently. These rates are current as of 2025. Always consult a tax professional for personalized advice.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This Internship ROI Calculator provides estimates for educational and informational purposes only. Actual results may vary significantly based on individual circumstances, market conditions, regulatory changes, and other factors beyond the scope of this calculator.
The calculations and projections provided are based on assumptions and historical data that may not reflect future performance.Past performance does not guarantee future results.
This tool is not financial advice, tax advice, legal advice, or investment advice. For personalized guidance tailored to your specific situation, please consult with qualified professionals including:
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) for tax matters
- Licensed attorney for legal matters
- Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) for investment decisions
Data Accuracy: All data sources, statistics, and rates were verified as accurate as of October 2025. Tax rates, market conditions, and other financial data change over time. Always verify current rates and consult official sources.
No Warranties: While we strive for accuracy, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided. Use this tool at your own risk.