Explore Microsoft Program Overview
Have you ever thought about pursuing a technical career in computer science or engineering? Here’s your chance to experience the exciting field of software development as a freshman or sophomore: Become an Explorer.
Explore Microsoft is a 12-week summer internship program that is specifically designed for college underclassmen (freshmen and sophomores) and offers the opportunity to experience working at Microsoft. This program is designed to expose students to the field of software development and encourage students to pursue degrees in computer science, computer engineering, or related technical disciplines through hands-on training and group project experience.
Candidate Qualifications
Candidates must be a freshman or sophomore enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program with a demonstrated interest in majoring in computer science, computer engineering, software engineering, or related technical major. Students must have completed an Introduction to Computer Science course (or equivalent class) as well as one semester of calculus (or equivalent) by the start of the program. Finalists will be selected on the basis of eligibility and demonstrated interest in the software industry.
All candidates who meet the above criteria may apply. We especially encourage applications from groups currently underrepresented in the field of computer science— women, minorities (African American, American Indian, Hispanic), and individuals with disabilities.
How to Apply
Apply now - Only resumes in English will be accepted.
Apply online using the button to the right for our Explore Microsoft Internship program. Make sure, when submitting your resume, that it includes your e-mail address, school address and phone number, permanent address and phone number, intended major, and expected graduation date. Please also include a list of your current courses within the body of your resume. If you use the resume builder, you can enter current courses in the “Skills and Qualifications” field.
FAQ
You will have enormous responsibility, project ownership, and impact during this 12-week session. Read this FAQ to gain a better understanding of what Explore Microsoft might be like for you.
How does this program differ from the 12-week Microsoft college internship?
Explore Microsoft is intended for students who are beginning their academic studies and would like to learn more about careers in software development through an experiential learning program. The Explore program provides formal training as well as a group project experience working alongside other Explorers. Explorers will rotate through three core tech disciplines across 12 weeks (Program Manager, Software Design Engineer, and Software Design Engineer in Test), rather than specializing in just one.
What can I expect to do during Explore Microsoft?
You will work in a team of three to complete a project for your product group through which you will gain exposure to the software development lifecycle and our three core technical positions: Program Manager, Software Design Engineer, and Software Design Engineer in Test.
Will I work in a number of groups during this experience, or focus on a specific goal in one group?
We want you to become very involved with your group project, so we will assign you to a specific product team while you are here. It is the best way to make sure you have the opportunity to make a real contribution. However, there will be plenty of opportunities to attend discussions about different Microsoft technologies and to pick the brains of other employees working around campus.
What benefits will I receive during Explore Microsoft?
Microsoft offers benefits designed to make your experience the best it can be, and Explore Microsoft is no exception. Explore Microsoft includes competitive pay, relocation, training, transportation, and more!
Where is Explore Microsoft offered?
The vast majority of opportunities are offered at our Redmond, Washington, campus.
If I haven’t declared a major, can I still apply?
Yes! We do not require that you be a computer science major in order to apply, however, we do require all candidates to have completed an Introduction to Computer Science (or equivalent course) and one semester of calculus (or equivalent). We’re interested in individuals who have a demonstrated passion for technology and a desire to further explore the field of software development.
Questions? Please contact your recruiter.
