Six (4) Steps to Becoming a Student Intern
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility to Apply
The U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program is a paid internship program that provides students with substantive learning experiences in a foreign affairs environment, specifically at U.S. embassies, consulates, and missions throughout the world, at various Department bureaus located in Washington, D.C., or at Department offices around the United States.
To be eligible to apply for a Student Internship opportunity, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen at the time of application
- An undergraduate (juniors and seniors) or graduate student
- A college student (with a minimum 3.2 GPA) with at least 60 credit hours or 90 quarter hours
- A continuing student, i.e., returning to school in the immediately following semester/quarter after completing the internship
- Able to receive a favorable determination for Low Risk/Non-Sensitive or Public Trust, or a Secret or Top Secret clearance
More Information on Eligibility Requirements
Step 2: Register to “Join Our Talent Network”
If you would like to receive notifications when internship opportunities are announced, we encourage you to sign up for email updates.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Applications and all required documentation must be submitted through the application on USAJOBS by 11:59 p.m. ET on the application close date. We encourage you to submit your application as early as possible. If there are any missing materials or if the application is submitted after the deadline, you will be disqualified from consideration.
Step 4: Receive a Security Clearance
Before your internship can begin, you must receive either a favorable determination for Low Risk/Non-Sensitive or Public Trust, or a Secret or Top Secret clearance; therefore, you should not make any irrevocable travel or housing arrangements until you are notified that you have been cleared to begin your internship.
Keep in mind that this process may take several months, as it requires you to complete the following:
- Electronic security questionnaire
- Fingerprint cards
- In-person interview with an investigator
Information on the Security Clearance Process
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Student Intern Selection Process Supplemental Information
Any questions? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page
Student Internship FAQs
I’m taking a gap year. Can I still apply?
We like your enthusiasm! Our answer depends on yours. If you are spending your gap year in student status (learning, studying, etc.) then you are eligible to apply. If you are already enrolled for the 2021-22 academic year, and spending your gap year both learning and earning, you’re eligible. If you are taking a break from college to decide next steps, and are focused solely on earning money, then you are not eligible to apply and should wait until next year. If you apply, we look forward to seeing your application!
What are some of the responsibilities assigned to Interns?
Each internship opportunity lists the responsibilities of the internship, but interns may be assigned to do research on political, economic, environmental or other issues. They may write reports and correspondence; assist with citizens’ services or visa work; or use their expertise in information systems, procurement, or budget and fiscal operations. Some may help to organize a conference or a visit of high-level officials. Some interns write news stories, work on web pages, or help produce electronic journals. Others may be involved in educational and cultural exchange activities. Interns also help in the recruiting of U.S. speakers and specialists for overseas programs.
Is housing provided by the Department of State for interns?
The program covers reasonable travel expenses to and from the internship and assists with housing.
If I am selected to go abroad for an internship, do I need medical insurance?
Yes. Interns selected for internships abroad must provide proof of medical insurance coverage, to include medical evacuation and repatriation of remains, to the Student Programs Office or bureau coordinator prior to departure.
I am studying business and my friend is studying international relations. Will it be possible for both of us to serve as interns?
The Department is looking for students with a broad range of majors, including Business or Public Administration, Social Work, Economics, Information Management, Journalism, and the Biological and Physical Sciences, as well as those majors more traditionally identified with international affairs.
Do all U.S. Embassies and Consulates participate in the internship program?
No, not all posts are able to participate in the program, and participation may vary year to year. Because it is difficult to anticipate the needs of our embassies and consulates, you should apply to those posts that are of interest to you. Posts that are deemed dangerous (designated for danger pay) do not host interns.
Are unofficial transcripts accepted in the U.S. Department of State Student Internship application process?
Unofficial transcripts are accepted during the application process. However, if you are selected for an internship, you will be required to provide an official transcript prior to beginning your internship.