Fully Funded Opportunity in Washington, D.C.: Niskanen Summer Institute 2025 – Democracy That Works

If you are an undergraduate student passionate about leadership, public policy, and the future of democratic governance, the Niskanen Summer Institute (NSI) 2025 offers a rare and prestigious opportunity to deepen your understanding of how politics and policy intersect in the United States. Hosted by the Niskanen Center, this fully funded, one-week academic program will take place in downtown Washington, D.C., from June 8 to June 12, 2025, and is designed for intellectually curious students eager to shape ideas that influence real-world policy.

The Niskanen Summer Institute is more than just a short course—it is an immersive experience that introduces participants to the inner workings of Washington policymaking. Through seminars, discussions, field visits, and hands-on training, students gain an insider’s perspective on how political ideas move from theory to implementation. The program brings together 15–20 carefully selected students, ensuring a highly interactive and personalized learning environment.

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About the Niskanen Center and the Abundance Agenda

The Niskanen Center is a leading public policy think tank known for its influential work across critical policy areas such as climate and energy, immigration, criminal justice reform, healthcare, government effectiveness, and welfare policy. The organization has played a pioneering role in developing the “abundance agenda,” a policy framework focused on solving societal challenges by increasing the supply of essential but scarce resources—such as housing, healthcare services, clean energy, and infrastructure. This agenda emphasizes liberty, opportunity, and shared prosperity as central pillars of a thriving democratic society.

Participants in the Summer Institute will explore how this framework applies to today’s most pressing political and economic debates. By engaging directly with Niskanen staff, fellows, and affiliates, students will encounter innovative ideas and pragmatic approaches to reform that challenge conventional political divisions.

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What the Program Offers

The Niskanen Summer Institute is fully funded, removing financial barriers for talented students from diverse backgrounds. Participants will receive a $250 stipend, and the program will cover all major expenses, including:

• Round-trip travel (including flights)
• Lodging in Washington, D.C.
• Meals and local transportation

The program is scheduled to take place before most summer internships begin, and participation in an internship is not required. However, if accepted students need assistance adjusting their internship schedules, the Niskanen Center is willing to communicate directly with employers to help accommodate attendance.

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Learning Experience and Activities

During the week, participants can expect a rich mix of academic and practical experiences, including:

• Daily seminars and discussions led by Niskanen scholars and policy experts
• Exposure to the policy, philosophical, and historical foundations shaping today’s political environment
• Field visits to Capitol Hill and other key institutions, with opportunities to engage policymakers and advocates
• Training in government affairs, political communication, research methods, and policy writing
• Structured social activities that foster strong connections within the cohort

Key topics covered in the program include the causes and consequences of current political realignment in the U.S., the structural challenges facing American institutions, and the opportunities for bold yet pragmatic reform. Students will also examine emerging debates in housing policy, climate and energy, state capacity, immigration, regulation, welfare systems, and healthcare. A central theme throughout the program is the future of coalition-building and effective governance in a disrupted and polarized policymaking environment.

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Who Should Apply?

The Niskanen Summer Institute is looking for visionary undergraduate students who are eager to engage deeply with ideas about liberal democracy and open societies. Ideal candidates are:

• Intellectually open-minded, valuing diverse viewpoints and cross-ideological dialogue
• Collaborative problem-solvers who thrive in team-oriented, fast-paced settings
• Motivated learners interested in applying policy ideas to real-world challenges
• Students in the class of 2026 or later are eligible to apply.

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Application Process and Timeline

To apply, candidates must submit:

• A resume
• Responses to three short essay questions
• An unofficial academic transcript
• Contact information for a recommendation letter

APPLY HERE

Application deadline: February 27, 2025

Interviews: Conducted on a rolling basis

Final decisions announced: By March 27, 2025

This opportunity is ideal for students considering careers in public policy, government, think tanks, advocacy, law, or related fields—and for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how democracy can work better in practice.

For more information or inquiries, applicants can contact summerinstitute@niskanencenter.org.

The program page will be updated regularly as speakers and programming are finalized.

This is a competitive and highly rewarding opportunity—students interested in policy, leadership, and democratic reform are strongly encouraged to apply early.

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