Frequently Asked Questions

Does Steppenwolf Theatre Company offer paid internships?
Participants in The Apprenticeship and The African American Fellowship are paid. Participants in The Summer Internship are not paid, but participants are encouraged to apply for academic credit with their school.

How competitive is the selection process?
Because Steppenwolf receives so many applications from highly qualified individuals there is a high level of competition. Each year, we receive over five hundred applications for these programs.

How does the selection process work?
If an application is complete, it will be reviewed. A round of candidates will be interviewed in person or over the phone. Some departments will request a second round of interviews. About one month after the application deadline, all applicants will receive a status of their application via e-mail. Usually, the selection process is completed in 4 to 6 weeks.

Does Steppenwolf offer housing?
No. It is the responsibility of the participant to find housing. Visit the Living in Chicago page for resources on moving to Chicago.

Can I apply for more than one program?
Yes. You may apply for one or all of the programs. Also, each application allows you to choose a first and second choice for the departments you would like to be considered. Please be aware that departments will have access to your choices and your choice order.

Does Steppenwolf offer short–term or part–time internships?
Steppenwolf sticks to the program dates listed. Persons looking for a short-term experience should consider The Summer Internship or signing up to volunteer.

Are high–school students or adults exploring new career paths eligible to apply for an internship/apprenticeship at Steppenwolf?
All participants must be 18 years of age. High school students should consider participating in Steppenwolf for Young Adults programs or volunteer. Adults interested in exploring new career paths in arts administration and production are more than welcome to apply.

Will I be able hold a job during the program?
If hired, you would be required to work either 30 or 40 hours a week per week. Many former participants have been able to find evening and weekend work in retail establishments, restaurants, and bars in the city.

If I am not offered an internship can I apply again?
Yes. Due to the high number of qualified applicants we receive each year, many departments find themselves with a number of appropriate applications from which to choose. If you feel the program would still be beneficial to you, or you have gained a little more experience please re–apply.