Yes, you need a cover letter for an internship. Even if it’s not required, employers will appreciate it if you take the time to write a cover letter. Many applicants don’t include a cover letter when applying for an internship, meaning your chances of landing an interview are greatly increased (as long as you also write a great resume).
Additionally, including a cover letter with your internship application gives you an opportunity to show your passion for the role and provide important details about your experience, academic career, and skills.
Explaining your qualifications is especially important when applying for internships because you likely don’t have much experience yet. When employers view your application, they use your cover letter to decide whether you’d be a good fit.