Intern - Software Engineer - Application Security - Summer 2026

Internship Overview

Our Vision: We make dreams possible.

Yes, we're a student loan servicer. We're also a technology company, idea incubator, start-up accelerator, and K-12 and higher education expert. At Nelnet, we're so much more than what you think—and we're just getting started. So, no matter what you want to do in life—build codes or build brands—we're the best place to do it.

Join Nelnet as an intern and do real work that matters to our business. All Nelnet interns receive one-on-one mentorship, competitive pay, casual dress, flexible schedule, intern-specific programming, and meaningful work experience.

Apply to one of our internships today. Your career awaits.

Hungry for relevant development experience while you're still in school? Nelnet, a Fortune 1000 finance & technology company, is hiring eager students to join its Summer 2026 IT Internship program. Interns are placed in dynamic teams with one of two goals: delivering technology that makes educational finance simple so borrowers can achieve their dreams, and supporting K-12 schools with the systems they need to serve students each day. Across all teams, Nelnet interns enjoy competitive pay, casual dress, flexible work hours, and receive mentorship from Technology pros.

SUMMARY: As a leader in educational finance & payment processing, security is core to Nelnet's continued success. To protect our customers, associates & our business interests, Nelnet's dedicated security teams work to ensure that all of our systems meet or exceed industry security standards. The Nelnet Application Security Team works collaboratively with innovative IT Delivery teams and Business Operational areas to implement the Nelnet Application Security Program, improve the security posture of our development process, and coach development teams on application security topics. The Application Security Intern will put their development skills and security aptitude to work within Nelnet's Application Security Team. The Intern will assist with real projects and have the opportunity to further develop their skills under mentorship of the Team's professionals. The hourly pay range for this role is $18 - $26. This position requires work in support of the Company's contract with the United States Department of Education ("ED"). As such, the United States Government requires that any applicant for this position must complete United States Government security clearance. Effective June 1, 2018, ED has informed Nelnet that security clearance applications for foreign nationals are not being accepted or processed. In light of this direction from ED, Nelnet will be unable to hire applicants without United States citizenship for such positions.

We're Looking for Someone Who...

• Is pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Software Development, or a related field
• Pursuing a degree or interest in Cybersecurity.
• Has Experience with the software build process and CI/CD. Has an interest in cloud environment such as AWS.
• Has Experience running open source scanning tools.
• Possesses exceptional written, verbal and interpersonal skills
• Is comfortable working in an agile development environment and understands on time/within-budget principles.
• Shares new ideas, is creative and passionate about innovation
• Sees feedback as an opportunity for growth

Nelnet is committed to providing a welcoming and respectful workplace where all associates have the opportunity to succeed. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we ensure that all qualified applicants are considered for employment. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion/creed, national origin, gender, sex, marital status, age, disability, use of a guide dog or service animal, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. We value the unique contributions of every team member and believe that a positive work environment benefits everyone.

Nelnet is a Drug Free and Tobacco Free Workplace.