Internships / Fellowships
Whether you’re an undergraduate or postgraduate student seeking a substantive internship or fellowship supporting U.S. foreign policy, there’s no limit as to how far our opportunities can take you. You’ll have the opportunity to gain insight into U.S. foreign policy and diplomacy, explore new career avenues, and acquire lifelong skills as you represent America to the world.
You’ll work with architects, lT professionals, policy experts, and engineers who have diverse educational and cultural backgrounds, global perspectives, depth of knowledge, and technical skills, along with exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities. You can contribute your different perspectives and innovative thinking as you learn from Foreign and Civil Service professionals who work to support and advance U.S. interests worldwide.
The opportunities are endless—and they all start right here.
For those interested in the paid internship program, begin by finding out which office is right for you. You’ll need this information as you begin the application process.
We recommend you contact a Diplomat in Residence near you to learn more about each program and the different application, selection, and hiring processes.
Programs
Becoming a Student Intern | Pathways Program | Foreign Service Fellowships |
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Internships
Pathways Internship Programs
The U.S. Department of State’s Pathways Internship Program includes both the Internship Temporary Program (ITEP) and the Internship Experience Program (IEP). Both programs are targeted toward U.S. citizens enrolled in a wide variety of educational institutions from high school to graduate school and professional academic levels. Both programs provide students with opportunities to explore Federal careers while being paid for the work performed.
U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program
The U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program is a paid internship with the opportunity to work in U.S. embassies and consulates throughout the world, as well as in various bureaus located in Washington, D.C. and at Department offices around the United States. This program is designed to provide substantive learning experiences in a foreign affairs environment.
Virtual Student Federal Service
Virtual Internship. Real Experience. The Virtual Student Federal Service connects the talents of U.S. citizen college students with the needs of federal agencies. Since 2009, more than 10,000 remote interns have advanced the work of the federal government. The time commitment is about 10 hours per week during the school year. There are opportunities for all, from data visualization to political analysis. Internships are paid but may be eligible for course credit. Speak with a guidance counselor regarding course credit requirements,
Fellowships
Colin Powell Leadership Program
The Colin Powell Leadership Program recruits highly motivated individuals from a variety of backgrounds who aspire to and possess the potential to become future civil service leaders in the Department. The program provides paid fellowships to recent college graduates and paid internships to students who are enrolled at accredited institutions of higher education.
Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Program
The Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Program honors former Congressman Rangel for his long-standing and vocal support for showing the world the diversity that is the strength of America, as well as his example of global leadership, by encouraging diverse individuals to pursue a career in diplomacy.
MBA Special Advisor Fellowship
The MBA Special Advisor Fellowship seeks to strengthen the Department’s strategic management and operations capabilities through leading-edge solutions and academia. This fellowship requires a Master’s in Business Administration or degree conferral occurring prior to entering on duty.
