If you are passionate about international relations, leadership, and global policy, the Summer 2026 Internship at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) offers a highly competitive and enriching opportunity to gain hands-on experience in one of the world’s leading policy institutions.
This full-time, six-month paid internship is hosted within the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy (AILA), a flagship initiative designed to train emerging and established leaders in foreign policy, ethics, and global governance.
Located in Washington, D.C., this internship places you at the heart of global policymaking, offering exposure to high-level programs, international experts, and real-world policy challenges.
About CSIS and the Leadership Academy
Founded in 1962, CSIS is a globally recognized, bipartisan think tank dedicated to providing strategic insights and policy solutions to decision-makers. With a team of over 250 professionals, including leading analysts, CSIS plays a vital role in addressing global security, economic development, and international cooperation.
The Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy (AILA), alongside the Executive Education Program, delivers cutting-edge training experiences for:
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Government officials
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Global leaders
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Young professionals
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University students
Through seminars, crisis simulations, and leadership workshops, AILA equips participants with the skills needed to navigate complex global challenges.
Internship Overview
The CSIS internship offers a dynamic and fast-paced work environment where interns contribute directly to program development and execution.
Key Details
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Start Date: May 2026
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Duration: 6 months
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Location: On-site in Washington, D.C.
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Type: Full-time, paid internship
Compensation
The internship is paid on an hourly basis, depending on academic level:
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$18/hour – Undergraduate students
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$19/hour – Bachelor’s degree holders
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$20/hour – Master’s degree holders
This competitive compensation reflects CSIS’s commitment to supporting emerging professionals.
Deadline
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Application Deadline: March 22, 2026 (11:59 PM)
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is strongly encouraged.
Key Responsibilities
Interns will play an active role in supporting the operations of AILA and Executive Education programs. Responsibilities include:
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Assisting with event management and coordination
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Creating social media content for program outreach
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Compiling and analyzing data on CSIS programming
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Supporting program administration and logistics
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Writing newsletters and outreach materials
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Conducting market research and donor analysis
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Performing background research on learning strategies and program development
This role is ideal for candidates who want to develop both operational and strategic skills in an international policy environment.
Required Skills and Qualifications
Applicants should demonstrate:
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Strong interest in education, leadership development, or event management
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Interest in foreign policy or international relations
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills
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Ability to multi-task and manage details effectively
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Creativity and enthusiasm for challenging assignments
Preferred Experience
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Event management or project coordination experience
Work Environment
The internship is based on-site at CSIS headquarters in Washington, D.C., offering interns direct exposure to a professional office setting and high-level programming.
CSIS promotes an inclusive work environment and is committed to equal opportunity employment.
How to Apply
To apply for this internship:
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Submit one PDF document containing:
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Your resume
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Your cover letter
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Incomplete applications will not be considered, so ensure all materials are properly prepared before submission.
Why This Internship Matters
The CSIS Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy Internship is more than just work experience—it is a gateway into the world of global policy, leadership training, and international affairs.
Interns gain:
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Real-world exposure to global policy discussions
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Hands-on experience in program management
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Opportunities to build a strong professional network
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Practical skills that are highly valued in international careers
For students and graduates aiming to build careers in diplomacy, international organizations, or policy research, this internship provides a strong foundation.
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