U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Summer 2026 Internship Program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is now accepting applications for its Summer 2026 Internship Program, a prestigious public-service and leadership development experience designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in agriculture, public service, science, policy, and community development.

This highly regarded program welcomes emerging leaders from across the United States to gain hands-on professional experience while supporting USDA’s mission to strengthen America’s food systems, empower farmers, and serve rural communities.

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About the USDA Internship Program

The USDA Internship Program provides a meaningful opportunity for young leaders to:

• Contribute directly to USDA’s mission and public-service goals
• Build practical workplace skills through hands-on assignments
• Receive mentorship from USDA leaders and subject-matter experts
• Deepen their understanding of federal service and government operations
• Grow their networks across the Department and Washington, D.C.

Each year, selected interns support USDA teams through activities such as research, policy analysis, communications drafting, data support, outreach, stakeholder engagement, program operations, and more. While responsibilities vary by office, all interns participate in department-wide training, lunch-and-learn sessions, and professional development events.

This is an in-person internship based at the USDA Whitten Building in Washington, D.C.
Remote options are not available.

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Key Program Information

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must:

• Be U.S. citizens
• Be at least 18 years old at time of application
• Demonstrate strong character, leadership, and a commitment to public service
• Align with the mission and values of USDA

You do not need to be a current student or degree-holder.

Compensation

• USDA internships are unpaid
• Interns are encouraged to seek external funding or academic credit support

Schedule

• Full-time, Monday–Friday
• Standard hours between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
• Some flexibility may be possible for academic requirements

Housing

• Housing is not provided
• Interns are responsible for securing accommodation in Washington, D.C.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

• Online application (no paper submissions accepted)
• Contact details for two references familiar with their character and public-service commitment
• Optional: Recommendation letters (PDF upload)

Late submissions—including late references—may result in disqualification.

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Selection Criteria

Candidates will be assessed on:

• Demonstrated commitment to public service
• Leadership experience and character
• Alignment with the mission of the USDA and the Administration
• Professional readiness and motivation

All accepted interns will undergo security screening.

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Important Dates

• Application Deadline: March 2, 2026
• Internship Period: June–August 2026
• Location: USDA Whitten Building, Washington, D.C.
• Program Type: In-person, full-time

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How to Apply

Submit your application through the official USDA Internship Program portal:
Apply Now – USDA Internship Application (Summer 2026)

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For more information: Click Here