U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program 2026

Apply for the U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program 2026. A paid internship that offers hands-on diplomatic experience in Washington, D.C., and across the United States.

Introduction

The U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program 2026 offers students the chance to serve their country while gaining valuable experience in foreign affairs. This paid internship provides firsthand exposure to diplomacy in action and insight into the responsibilities of both the Foreign Service and Civil Service.

Interns are placed across various bureaus and offices in Washington, D.C., and nationwide. The program allows participants to build professional skills, engage in meaningful work, and contribute to advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives. It’s a unique opportunity to work alongside top diplomats, policymakers, and analysts shaping the future of international relations.

About the Paid Student Internship Program

The Student Internship Program is a paid opportunity designed to provide substantive learning experiences in an authentic foreign affairs environment. Whether in Washington, D.C., or at regional offices across the U.S., interns support key operations that advance the mission of the Department of State.

While updates for the upcoming 2026 cycle are expected soon, students are encouraged to review eligibility requirements and prepare in advance. Applicants can also sign up for updates via the official U.S. Department of State website to stay informed about application openings.

What to Expect as a State Department Intern

The nature of the internship varies depending on the bureau or office where a student is assigned. Interns can expect to:

Participate in meetings with senior-level U.S. government or foreign officials.
Draft and edit reports, briefing materials, and communications that inform U.S. foreign policy.
Assist in organizing and supporting high-level international meetings and conferences.
Contribute to cultural diplomacy initiatives, helping explain the work of the Department of State to both domestic and global audiences.
Conduct policy research, compile data, and analyze international developments.

Through these assignments, interns gain exposure to real-world diplomacy, develop critical thinking and writing skills, and understand how foreign policy decisions are made.

Internship Locations and Assignments

Most Student Internship Program placements are located at the Department of State headquarters in Washington, D.C., with a limited number of opportunities in New York City at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations (USUN).

Internships are available across both Geographic and Functional Bureaus, allowing participants to explore different facets of U.S. diplomacy:

Geographic Bureaus

These bureaus manage foreign policy and diplomatic relations for specific regions of the world.
Examples include:

Bureau of African Affairs (AF)
Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs (EAP)
Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs (EUR)
Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs (NEA)
Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA)
Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs (WHA)

Functional Bureaus

Functional bureaus handle cross-cutting issues that impact global policy and U.S. interests.
Examples include:

Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL)
Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL)
Bureau of International Organization Affairs (IO)
Bureau of Political-Military Affairs (PM)
Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES)

Other bureaus manage essential administrative and operational functions, such as:

Bureau of Administration (A)
Bureau of Consular Affairs (CA)
Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS)
Bureau of Legislative Affairs (H)
Bureau of Global Talent Management (GTM)
Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations (OBO)

Program Eligibility for U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program 2026

Applicants must meet the following general requirements to qualify for the U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program 2026:

Be a U.S. citizen at the time of application.
Be at least 18 years of age.
Be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university (undergraduate or graduate program).
Maintain good academic standing (minimum 3.0 GPA is strongly recommended).
Pass a background investigation for a security clearance.

Internship Benefits

The State Department’s Student Internship Program provides multiple benefits:

Paid internship: Interns receive compensation for their work during the program period.
Professional mentorship: Work closely with diplomats, policymakers, and global affairs specialists.
Career insight: Learn about international relations, foreign policy development, and public service.
Networking opportunities: Engage with officials across different agencies and departments.
Personal development: Build writing, communication, and research skills applicable across industries.

How to Apply

Applications for the 2026 Student Internship Program will open once the Department of State announces the next cycle. To prepare:

Visit the official U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program page.
Review eligibility and required documents (resume, transcripts, and references).
Create a USAJOBS account to submit your application when the cycle opens.
Sign up on the official site to receive program updates and notifications about future deadlines.

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Why Apply

The Student Internship Program 2026 provides one of the most prestigious entry points into federal service and international affairs. It allows students to contribute to meaningful work, gain an insider’s understanding of diplomacy, and explore potential careers in the Foreign Service, Civil Service, or other government sectors.

Whether you plan to pursue a career in international relations, policy analysis, or public administration, this internship builds the foundation for professional success and public service.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Student Internship Program paid?
Yes. The internship provides financial compensation to all selected participants.

2. Who can apply?
Only U.S. citizens who meet the academic and security requirements may apply.

3. Where do interns work?
Most internships are based in Washington, D.C., with limited placements at regional offices and the U.S. Mission to the United Nations in New York City.

4. Do I need prior work experience?
No. While experience in government or international relations is helpful, it is not required.

5. How can I stay updated?
Students can sign up for program updates and email notifications via the Department of State’s official internship page.

Final Thoughts

The U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program 2026 is a highly respected federal opportunity that combines academic learning with real-world experience in diplomacy. It offers unmatched access to the world of foreign policy, national security, and global engagement.

For students eager to make a meaningful impact and gain experience that transcends borders, this internship is the ideal starting point.

Apply or sign up for updates via the official U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program page.

Keywords

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U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program 2026 | Apply Now

Introduction

About the Paid Student Internship Program

What to Expect as a State Department Intern