MISTI Ukraine Internships

One of the key ways in which MIT-Ukraine activates talent in support of Ukraine is through MISTI internships. These internships are aimed at completing hands-on projects for the Ukrainian government, NGOs, and business enterprises, or for organizations located outside of Ukraine but focused on serving Ukraine’s pressing needs. While MIT students are currently not allowed to travel to Ukraine for safety reasons, MISTI Ukraine internships take place either remotely or in other European countries. Over the past four summers, 2023-2026, MISTI Ukraine interns have completed projects in Finland, Lithuania, Norway, Serbia, Poland, Slovenia, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, England, Czech Republic and Spain. MISTI Ukraine internships will be available on a limited basis in 2027.  Please email MIT-Ukraine Program Manager, svitkras [at] mit.edu (Svitlana Krasynska), with inquiries or for more information. 

Internship Opportunities

Overview

MISTI Ukraine matches MIT students with internships and research opportunities at governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, business firms, and universities in Ukraine, as well as at organizations working on Ukraine-focused projects outside of Ukraine. Internships last around 4 weeks over IAP and 8-12 weeks during the summer. MISTI Ukraine covers the cost of travel and living expenses for internships that require international travel, and provides an hourly stipend for remote internships.

Past Internships

MISTI Ukraine organizes internships during the summer break and over IAP for students across a range of disciplines to support critical needs in Ukraine.  Here is a sampling of internships completed through MISTI Ukraine in the past:

  • Aid logistics: Optimizing aid distribution logistics to the Ukrainian front-line zones; project aimed at making delivery of critical supplies more efficient and timely.
  • Refugee support: Research project (Belgrade, Serbia) aimed at identifying issues faced by Ukrainian refugees in Europe. Development and delivery of interactive STEM curriculum for children at refugee centers in Europe (Helsinki, Finland; Vilnius, Lithuania).
  • Economic development: Collaboration with the Kyiv School of Economics on a project aiming to identify success strategies employed by prominent Ukrainian businesses in the context of war; development of online support program for Ukrainian businesses. 
  • Housing for internally displaced: Collaboration with community-based organizations in Ukraine and European urban planning firms to design and build housing for the internally displaced families in Ukraine (Zurich, Switzerland; Rotterdam and the Hague, the Netherlands; Turin, Italy; and remotely).
  • Scientific diaspora: Collaboration with Ukraine's Ministry of Education and Science on creating an online platform for displaced Ukrainian scientists.
  • Leadership development: Implementation of the Ukraine Leadership and Technology Academy (ULTA), teaching and mentoring 20 rigorously-selected Ukrainian high school students (Barcelona, Spain; Warsaw, Poland; remote).
  • Strategic industries: Collaboration with Ukraine's Ministry of Strategic Industries on a project improving operational efficiency of state-owned enterprises in strategic industries.

2027 Opportunities

MISTI Ukraine internships will be available on a limited basis in 2027. Please contact MISTI Ukraine Program Manager Svitlana Krasynska for more information.

How to Apply

Applications for Summer 2025 can be found on the MISTI Portal. First, begin by filling out your Launchpad Application and meeting with the Program Coordinator by March 15. 

How to Apply

  • GPA 4.0 or higher
  • Interest in Ukraine

Language

  • There is no language requirement

Courses

  • None required. Please see below for recommended courses

Program expenses, including airfare, visa, accommodation, and a stipend, are covered.

  1. Complete the MISTI Launchpad Application – by December 1 (early deadline for summer) or February 20 (late deadline for summer)
  2. Interview with Country Program Manager – rolling (as soon as student completes MISTI Launchpad Application and contacts MISTI Ukraine Program Manager)
  3. Commit to MISTI Ukraine Program – rolling (within two weeks after student receives placement offer from MISTI Ukraine)
  4. Internship matching process – rolling (after interview with MISTI Ukraine Program Manager)
  5. Mandatory Pre-Departure Sessions – March to May

How to Apply

We work closely with students to find a tailored project that matches their skills and interests. Participating students are required to attend one or two training sessions before traveling to the country.

21G.S08 Introduction to Ukrainian Language and Culture

Offered: IAP 2025 (9 units HASS-A)​

Introduces students to the foundations of Ukrainian language and essential communication skills.  Surveys topics in Urkainian history, national identity, and diverse Ukrainian culture and art through looking at major figures in literature, music, cinematography, and visual arts.  Explores the role of Ukrainian art in the world, underlining its connections and influences.  Gives students the opportunity to learn, discover, create, and have fun ... including to have a taste of Ukrainian cuisine!

Meet Your Program Manager

Contact
Svitlana Krasynska

Get in touch with Svitlana Krasynska, Program Director for MIT-Ukraine, to get your questions answered.