AEA Graduate Education Diversity Internship (GEDI) Program 2026–2027: Paid $15,000 Internship for Graduate Students in Research and Evaluation

The AEA Graduate Education Diversity Internship (GEDI) Program 2026–2027 is a paid professional development opportunity for graduate students in the United States who want to build careers in research, evaluation, and culturally responsive practice. Offered by the American Evaluation Association, the program provides a $15,000 stipend, hands-on internship experience, mentorship, training seminars, and access to a national network of evaluation professionals.

Designed to support students from historically underrepresented backgrounds, GEDI helps emerging scholars strengthen their research skills while gaining practical experience in the growing field of evaluation.

About the Program

The GEDI Program runs from September 2026 through July 2027 and combines academic learning with applied professional experience. Scholars complete the equivalent of approximately two days per week at an internship placement, usually located near their graduate institution.

Interns work with agencies and organizations on real evaluation projects that may involve assessing programs, analyzing outcomes, measuring community impact, or supporting evidence-based decision-making. These placements are structured to help participants apply their graduate training to real-world challenges.

In addition to the internship placement, scholars participate in seminars, webinars, networking events, and national conference activities throughout the academic year.

Why This Opportunity Matters

Many graduate students build strong research skills but have limited exposure to evaluation as a career path. The GEDI Program bridges that gap by helping students transfer academic research knowledge into professional evaluation practice.

Evaluation professionals play a critical role across sectors including public health, education, government, nonprofits, philanthropy, and social impact organizations. They help institutions understand what works, what needs improvement, and how programs can better serve communities.

GEDI also places a strong emphasis on culturally responsive evaluation, helping scholars think critically about race, culture, equity, language, and inclusion in research design and practice. This makes the program especially valuable for students interested in ethical and community-centered careers.

What Participants Will Gain

Selected scholars receive a $15,000 stipend in recognition of their internship work and successful completion of program requirements. Major travel costs for required in-person components, including airfare and shared hotel accommodations, are also reimbursed.

Participants gain direct evaluation experience through a supervised internship placement connected to their field of interest. They also receive mentorship from experienced professionals, guidance from program leadership, and support from an academic advisor.

The program includes training seminars in Washington, D.C., attendance at the Eval2026 Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, monthly webinars, and networking opportunities with leaders in evaluation.

By the end of the program, scholars will have practical work experience, professional connections, stronger applied research skills, and a clearer pathway into careers in evaluation and impact measurement.

Who Can Apply

The GEDI Program is open to students who are currently enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program in the United States and have completed at least one full year of graduate-level coursework.

Applicants should have prior exposure to research methods and demonstrate a strong interest in applying research skills to evaluation. Candidates must also show commitment to culturally responsive practice and be eligible to work for pay in the United States.

The program is particularly focused on supporting graduate students of color and individuals from historically underrepresented backgrounds.

Eligible Areas

Applicants must be residing in the United States during the program period and enrolled in a U.S.-based graduate institution.

Students from a wide range of disciplines are encouraged to apply, including public health, education, sociology, psychology, anthropology, political science, social work, and related fields.

Application Process and Deadline

Applicants should prepare essays, a professional reference letter, academic advisor support, and a CV as part of the application process. Finalists may be invited for interviews.

The deadline to apply for the GEDI Program 2026–2027 is 15 May 2026.

Graduate students interested in paid professional experience, mentorship, and a pathway into evaluation careers should strongly consider applying.

Learn more and apply on the official AEA website.

Explore More Opportunities for Youth

Want to discover more fellowships, scholarships, internships, and global programs like this one? Visit Opportunities for Youth to explore more opportunities.