Six Steps to Becoming a Student Intern
APPLICATION & SELECTION PROCESS
STEP 1: CONFIRM YOUR ELIGIBILITY TO APPLY
The U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program is an unpaid internship program that provides students with substantive learning experiences in a foreign affairs environment, specifically at U.S. embassies and consulates 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
• An Undergraduate (juniors and seniors) or Graduate student
• A college student (with a minimum 3.0 GPA) with at least 60 credit hours or 90
quarter hours
• Able to receive either a Public Trust, Secret or Top Secret clearance
More Information on Eligibility Requirements
STEP 2: DETERMINE WHICH OFFICE IS RIGHT FOR YOU
The “Which Office is Right for you?” tool can help you determine which of our offices and bureaus is the best fit for your academic major. Our offices and bureaus require a broad range of skills and academic backgrounds, so we do not limit our selections of internship candidates to the majors indicated for each office or bureau.
Which Office is Right for you?
STEP 3: REGISTER FOR “KEEP ME INFORMED”
If you would like to receive notifications when internship opportunities are announced, we encourage you to sign up for email updates.
STEP 4: 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 5: INTERVIEW
If you meet the minimal qualifications listed in the internship opportunity, a hiring manager may contact you to schedule an interview. That’s why it’s important for you to make sure your contact information (both telephone and email) on your application is accurate.
STEP 6: RECEIVE A SECURITY CLEARANCE
Before your internship can begin, you must receive either a Public Trust, Secret or Top Secret clearance; therefore, you should not make any firm travel or housing arrangements until you are notified that you have successfully received a security clearance.
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
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?
Housing is not provided in the Washington, D.C. area but may be available at some locations abroad, at no cost to interns, but circumstances may vary from post to post, so this cannot be guaranteed. Arrangements and associated costs are the responsibility of interns.
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.