CARE is now accepting applications for its 2026 internship and fellowship programmes. Opportunities are available in the U.S. and overseas for undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate students. Learn eligibility, benefits, placement details, and how to apply.
Overview: CARE Fellowships & Internships 2026
CARE, one of the world’s leading humanitarian and development organizations, offers a comprehensive Internship and Sponsored Fellowship Programme for students and emerging professionals. The programme provides hands-on experience in international development, humanitarian assistance, gender equality, global health, economic empowerment, and programme operations.
Internships are available both domestically—primarily at CARE USA Headquarters in Atlanta or at U.S. field offices—and internationally through the Overseas Interns Programme. CARE’s training model includes orientation, coaching, on-the-job learning, and access to CARE Academy’s professional development courses.
This programme is designed for students and recent graduates who want to gain practical experience, build global competencies, and contribute meaningfully to CARE’s mission.
CARE Domestic Internships (U.S.-Based)
CARE offers internships throughout the year, providing structured, project-driven professional experience across programmes, operations, communications, research, and policy.
Placement Locations
- CARE USA Headquarters, Atlanta
- U.S. Field Offices
Programme Features
- Project-based assignments aligned with CARE’s priorities
- Networking opportunities with staff and guest speakers
- Training in CARE’s history, mission, and programme models
- Professional development through orientations and internal learning sessions
Application Periods
- Fall Internships: August–September
- Spring Internships: November–December
- Summer Internships: April–May
Positions are posted on CARE’s Internship/Fellowship Career Site during those months.
Eligibility Requirements: CARE Domestic Internships
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be enrolled in a relevant undergraduate, graduate, or post-graduate programme
- Juniors and seniors preferred for undergraduate roles
- OR have graduated within six months of the posting date
- Hold appropriate work authorization (student visa holders must obtain authorization from their institution)
- Indicate on the application if they will receive academic credit or financial support
CARE Overseas Interns Programme
The Overseas Interns Programme provides globally focused training for students in:
- Global development
- Global health
- Humanitarian assistance
- Social sciences
- Programme management
- Communications and research
This pathway is intended to build future leaders through practical, field-based learning.
Programme Structure
The learning model combines:
- On-the-job training assignments
- Coaching and supervision from CARE staff
- Formal training through CARE Academy
Placement
- Interns are placed in CARE Country Offices
- Matching occurs on a rolling basis, though most placements occur June–August
- Assignments may be extended or offered at other times of the year
Safety Requirements
CARE only places interns in low or moderate-risk locations. Additional requirements include:
- Letter of permission (if sponsored by a university)
- Health and emergency evacuation insurance (proof required)
- Completion of CARE Academy’s online safety & security training
- In-country security briefing upon arrival
Eligibility Requirements: CARE Overseas Interns
Applicants must:
- Have financial support from an academic institution or agency
- Be legally authorized to work under the laws of the host country
- Obtain their own visa
- Be enrolled in a graduate or post-graduate programme or have graduated within six months
- Provide proof of comprehensive medical and evacuation insurance
- Demonstrate proficiency in the relevant working language
Ideal Candidate Profile
CARE seeks applicants who:
- Are currently enrolled in a relevant graduate programme
- Possess 2+ years of professional experience
- Demonstrate strong analytical, organizational, and time-management skills
- Have multicultural communication abilities
- Are proficient in a second language (French, Spanish, Portuguese preferred)
- Are flexible, open-minded, and team-oriented
How to Apply
Domestic Internships
- Visit the CARE Internship/Fellowship Career Site
- Search available internship postings during the designated application months
- Submit all required documents through the online portal
Overseas Interns Programme
Apply through the same portal, ensuring all materials are complete.
Required Documents
Applications must include:
- A current resume or CV with three references
- A detailed cover letter outlining programme and research interests
- A writing sample (for writing-intensive roles)
- Proof of insurance (for overseas roles)
- Any required authorization or sponsorship documentation
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | CARE Internships & Overseas Fellowships |
| Locations | U.S. Headquarters, U.S. field offices, CARE Country Offices |
| Domestic Eligibility | 18+, relevant enrolment or recent graduate (6 months) |
| Overseas Eligibility | Graduate level, financial support, visa, insurance |
| Application Cycles | Fall (Aug–Sept), Spring (Nov–Dec), Summer (Apr–May) |
| Training | CARE Academy + coaching + project-based assignments |
| Fields | Global health, development, humanitarian assistance, research, communications |
| Additional Requirements | Writing samples, insurance, permission letters (overseas) |
Conclusion
The CARE Fellowship and Internship Programme provides a pathway for students and early-career professionals to gain meaningful experience within one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations. Whether participating in U.S.-based placements or overseas field assignments, interns gain practical skills, global exposure, and professional development that prepares them for impactful careers in international development and humanitarian work.
