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Apply for Paid Internships with the U.S. Department of State

Are you ready to dive into the world of diplomacy? A student internship at the U.S. Department of State offers a unique opportunity to experience international relations firsthand and explore career paths in the Foreign Service and Civil Service. Whether in Washington, D.C., or abroad, you’ll gain valuable experience that applies across both government and private sectors.

Paid Student Internship Program

The U.S. Department of State is offering paid internship opportunities designed to provide students from diverse backgrounds with a deep understanding of diplomacy and foreign affairs. Interns will work on a full-time basis (40 hours/week) and receive compensation around GS-04/Step 1 base pay. The program also covers reasonable travel expenses and assists with housing.

Key Program Details:

  • Locations: U.S. embassies, consulates, and bureaus in Washington, D.C., and around the world.
  • Duration: Internships last between one and six months, with the possibility of extension up to twelve months.
  • Opportunities: Interns may participate in high-level meetings, draft reports, support events, and engage in diplomatic outreach.

Note: The Fall 2024 application period is now closed. For future opportunities and updates, sign up here.

Internship Assignments

Interns are placed in geographic or functional bureaus, as well as U.S. embassies and consulates. Examples include:

  • Geographic Bureaus: African Affairs, East Asian and Pacific Affairs, European and Eurasian Affairs, etc.
  • Functional Bureaus: Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, etc.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply, you must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen
  • Maintain a minimum 3.2 GPA
  • Be a junior or senior undergraduate, or a graduate student
  • Be able to receive a Public Trust, Secret, or Top Secret clearance

How to Apply

  1. Visit: careers.state.gov and navigate to the Student Programs section.
  2. Create: A USAJOBS account and build a resume using the USAJOBS Resume Builder.
  3. Apply: Submit your application, including required documents such as your transcript.

For any questions or further assistance, please contact us at studentinternship@state.gov.

Application Processing Timeline:

  • Summer Internship: Apply in October, intern from May to August.
  • Fall Internship: Apply in February, intern from September to December.
  • Spring Internship: Apply in July, intern from January to April.

Stay informed about upcoming application cycles and updates by signing up for email notifications.

Explore the impact you can make through the U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program and start your journey in international diplomacy today!

Source: https://careers.state.gov/interns-fellows/student-internship-program/