HHS Student Intern (Administrative) 2026 — Pathways Internship Program

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is accepting applications for its Student Intern (Administrative) position through the U.S. federal government’s Pathways Internship Program.

This opportunity gives eligible students the chance to gain practical experience within the U.S. federal government while receiving on-the-job training and developmental assignments in administrative support, program support, organizational management, reporting, meeting coordination, stakeholder engagement, and other government-related functions.

The position is located within the Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Services, under the Assistant Secretary for Administration, and the announcement may be used to fill multiple positions in different locations across the United States.

The opportunity is particularly relevant to students interested in public administration, government, business administration, project management, program management, organizational management, policy, executive support, and administrative careers.

However, applicants should carefully review the eligibility requirements because U.S. citizenship is required for this position.

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HHS Student Internship 2026: Key Details

• Opportunity: Student Intern (Administrative)
• Organization: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
• Office: Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Services
• Administrative Office: Assistant Secretary for Administration
• Program: Pathways Internship Program
• Opportunity Type: Internship
• Job Series: 0399 – Administration and Office Support Student Trainee
• Grade: GS-4 to GS-5
• Salary: $31,103–$45,239 per year
• Work Schedule: Full-time
• Work Arrangement: Telework eligible, depending on agency policy
• Remote: No
• Travel: Not required
• Appointment: Internship, not-to-exceed 13 months
• Promotion Potential: GS-5
• Federal Service: Excepted Service
• Drug Test: No
• Background Investigation: Suitability/Fitness
• Deadline: August 14, 2026, or earlier if the applicant limit is reached

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About the HHS Student Intern Administrative Position

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is offering Student Trainee positions under the federal government’s Pathways Internship Program.

The position is classified under occupational series 0399 — Administration and Office Support Student Trainee.

The purpose of the position is to provide students with practical, developmental work experience while they continue their education.

Interns will receive on-the-job training and may be assigned responsibilities designed to help them develop professional skills while supporting HHS programs and administrative operations.

The position is based within the Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Services, specifically under the Assistant Secretary for Administration.

The announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies across several locations.

The internship appointment is currently listed as not-to-exceed 13 months. Managers may have the option to extend appointments on a case-by-case basis, although extensions are not guaranteed.

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What Will HHS Student Interns Do?

The position involves both administrative support and program support responsibilities.

The duties are designed to provide students with practical exposure to how a major federal government department operates.

1. Administrative Support Duties

Administrative duties may include:

• Receiving and recording administrative documents.
• Planning meetings.
• Scheduling meetings.
• Coordinating meetings.
• Compiling information for reports.
• Compiling information for metrics.
• Supporting program updates.
• Performing administrative and technical duties.
• Supporting administrative services.
• Assisting with organizational management activities.

Through these responsibilities, interns may develop practical experience in areas such as:

• Calendar and schedule management.
• Meeting coordination.
• Documentation.
• Reporting.
• Information management.
• Administrative operations.
• Organizational management.
• Communication with stakeholders.
• Office coordination.

These skills are transferable to a wide range of careers in government, business, project management, administration, and organizational operations.

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2. Program Support Duties

Interns may also assist with program-related activities.

These responsibilities may include:

• Working with management.
• Working with stakeholders.
• Supporting the development of new systems.
• Assisting with implementation of systems.
• Supporting implementation of programs.
• Preparing reports.
• Preparing position papers.
• Preparing briefing materials.
• Preparing talking points.
• Preparing presentations for senior leadership.

This area of the internship can be particularly valuable for students interested in program management, public policy, government operations, project management, organizational development, and leadership support.

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Benefits of the HHS Student Internship

The HHS Student Intern position offers students the opportunity to gain experience in a major U.S. federal government department.

Gain Federal Government Experience

Interns can gain direct exposure to federal government operations and learn how administrative and program-support functions contribute to organizational performance.

Having government experience can be valuable for students interested in public-sector careers and other professions that involve government institutions.

Develop Professional Skills

The internship provides practical opportunities to develop skills in:

• Administration.
• Organization.
• Communication.
• Meeting coordination.
• Scheduling.
• Reporting.
• Program support.
• Stakeholder coordination.
• Presentation preparation.
• Information management.
• Organizational management.

Gain Experience Supporting Leadership

Interns may contribute to reports, briefing materials, presentations, talking points, and other materials prepared for senior leadership.

This can help students understand how information is organized and presented to decision-makers.

Receive On-the-Job Training

The position is designed around developmental assignments and on-the-job training.

Students can therefore gain practical experience while continuing to develop their academic and professional knowledge.

Potential Pathway to Future Federal Employment

One of the most attractive features of the Pathways Internship Program is the possibility of conversion.

Eligible interns may potentially be converted to a permanent or term position within HHS after successfully completing the required internship program requirements.

However, conversion is not guaranteed.

Conversion depends on factors including:

• Available funding.
• Organizational needs.
• Student performance.
• Educational completion.
• Training requirements.
• Availability of an appropriate position.
• Meeting applicable qualification standards.

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Salary and Employment Conditions

The advertised salary range for the position is:

$31,103 to $45,239 per year

The actual salary will be adjusted based on the duty location.

The position is classified at the GS-4 through GS-5 level.

The position is:

• Full-time.
• Non-supervisory.
• Not a research position.
• Not represented by a union.
• Not subject to a drug test.
• In the Excepted Service.
• Subject to a suitability/fitness background investigation.

The position is telework eligible, depending on agency policy, but it is not classified as a fully remote position.

Travel is not required.

Relocation expenses are not reimbursed.

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Available Locations

The announcement indicates that vacancies may be available in multiple locations.

These include:

• Denver, Colorado
• Washington, District of Columbia
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Chicago, Illinois
• Kansas City, Kansas
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Dallas County, Texas
• Location negotiable after selection

Although the position is associated with the Office of the Secretary in Washington, D.C., the announcement can be used to fill positions in several locations.

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Who Is Eligible for the HHS Student Internship?

The opportunity is specifically intended for students.

Applicants must be:

• Currently enrolled in a qualifying educational institution; or
• Accepted for enrollment in a qualifying educational institution.

Applicants must also be pursuing a qualifying:

• Degree.
• Diploma.
• Certificate.
• Educational credential.

Students may be enrolled on either a full-time or part-time basis, provided they meet the applicable Pathways requirements.

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Eligible Educational Institutions

The announcement recognizes a broad range of educational institutions.

These may include:

• Four-year colleges and universities.
• Community colleges.
• Junior colleges.
• Professional schools.
• Technical schools.
• Vocational schools.
• Trade schools.
• Graduate institutions.
• Other qualifying educational institutions.

The educational institution must meet the applicable accreditation requirements.

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Academic Requirements

Applicants must be in good academic standing.

The announcement establishes different GPA requirements depending on the educational program.

Undergraduate Students

Students pursuing an undergraduate degree must have a minimum cumulative GPA of:

2.5

Professional Master’s Students

Students enrolled in a professional master’s degree program must have a minimum GPA of:

3.0

Applicants must be able to provide documentation demonstrating their student status.

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Educational Requirements for GS-4

For the GS-4 level, applicants must have completed:

Two academic years of post-high-school education leading toward an associate’s degree.

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Educational Requirements for GS-5

For the GS-5 level, applicants must have completed:

Four academic years of post-high-school education leading toward a bachelor’s degree or equivalent degree.

The announcement also states that applications may be accepted from students who expect to complete qualifying education within nine months from the date of application, subject to the agency’s requirements.

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U.S. Citizenship Requirement

One of the most important eligibility conditions is that:

U.S. citizenship is required.

This means applicants should not assume that being an international student, studying in the United States, or having a foreign degree automatically makes them eligible.

Applicants must satisfy the citizenship requirement as well as all other eligibility conditions.

Can Applicants from Ghana or Other Countries Apply?

Based on the announcement provided, non-U.S. citizens do not meet the stated citizenship requirement.

Therefore, applicants from Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, India, the United Kingdom, Canada, and other countries would not qualify if they are not U.S. citizens.

The opportunity is therefore primarily relevant to U.S. citizens who meet the student and academic requirements.

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Foreign Education Requirements

Applicants who are relying on education completed at a foreign college or university must provide evidence showing that their education is equivalent to education obtained through an accredited U.S. educational institution.

The announcement requires foreign education to be evaluated by an accredited private organization specializing in the interpretation of foreign education programs.

The evaluation must establish U.S. educational equivalency and include a course-by-course listing.

Applicants relying on foreign education should ensure that the required evaluation documentation is available when applying.

Failure to provide the necessary documentation may result in loss of consideration.

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Required Application Documents

Submitting only a resume is not a complete application.

Applicants must submit the full application package and all required supporting documents.

Federal Resume

The resume must:

• Not exceed two pages.
• Clearly describe duties.
• Include accomplishments.
• Highlight relevant skills.
• Include start and end dates.
• Provide sufficient information to demonstrate qualifications.

The announcement encourages applicants to use the USAJOBS Resume Builder.

Online Application

Applicants must complete the online occupational questionnaire and submit their answers.

Proof of Student Status

Applicants must provide documentation demonstrating that they are currently enrolled or have been accepted for enrollment in a qualifying educational program.

Transcripts

Copies of transcripts are acceptable at the application stage, although official transcripts may be requested if an applicant is selected.

Additional documentation may be required for applicants applying under special eligibility categories, such as certain veterans, military spouses, federal employees, or other special appointment authorities.

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How to Prepare a Strong Federal Resume

Applicants should understand that a federal resume is different from many traditional private-sector resumes.

The announcement specifically states that applicants must provide enough information for the agency to determine whether they meet the qualifications.

Your resume should clearly identify:

• Position title.
• Employer.
• Beginning date.
• Ending date.
• Hours worked per week where applicable.
• Duties performed.
• Accomplishments.
• Relevant skills.
• Experience related to the position.

Applicants should avoid simply copying the duties from the job announcement into their resumes.

Instead, demonstrate how your own experience relates to the position.

For example, if you have experience coordinating meetings, managing calendars, preparing reports, supporting executives, organizing events, maintaining records, communicating with stakeholders, or preparing presentations, describe those activities clearly and specifically.

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Volunteer Experience May Count

Another important point is that qualifying experience does not necessarily have to come from traditional paid employment.

The announcement states that qualifying experience may include both paid and unpaid experience.

This can include volunteer work completed through:

• National service programs.
• Professional organizations.
• Philanthropic organizations.
• Community organizations.
• Student organizations.
• Social organizations.
• Other organizations.

This is particularly useful for students who may have limited formal employment experience.

Volunteer activities that demonstrate leadership, administration, organization, communication, project coordination, or program support may help demonstrate relevant experience.

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Background Investigation and Suitability

Selected applicants will be subject to a background security investigation and favorable adjudication.

The position is classified as:

Non-Sensitive / Low Risk

Applicants should ensure that all information provided in the application is accurate.

The federal government may verify information concerning:

• Education.
• Employment.
• Eligibility.
• Other information included in the application.

Applicants should therefore avoid submitting inaccurate or misleading information.

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USA Hire Assessments

Some applicants may be required to complete USA Hire competency-based assessments after submitting their application.

If an assessment is required, applicants will receive instructions through the application process and/or email.

Applicants should:

1. Access the assessment using the unique link provided.
2. Review all instructions before starting.
3. Complete the assessment within the stated deadline.
4. Allow sufficient time to complete the assessment.

The announcement recommends setting aside at least three hours, although many applicants may complete the assessments in less time.

If an applicant receives an assessment link after the announcement has closed, they may be required to complete the assessment within 48 hours of receiving the link.

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Reasonable Accommodation for USA Hire Assessments

Applicants with a disability covered by the Rehabilitation Act who believe that the disability could interfere with completing the USA Hire assessments may request reasonable accommodation.

Requests should be made before beginning the assessments.

Applicants may need to provide appropriate supporting documentation as part of the accommodation process.

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Important Application Deadline

The application period opened on:

August 10, 2026

The stated deadline is:

August 14, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time

However, applicants should apply as early as possible.

The announcement states that it may close before the stated deadline if the applicant limit is reached.

There is also an inconsistency within the announcement regarding the applicant limit. The overview states that the announcement will close after 300 applications, while the additional-information section says it is anticipated to close when the 50th application is received or at 11:59 PM on August 14, 2026, whichever comes first.

Because of this discrepancy, applicants should not wait until the final day.

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How to Apply for the HHS Student Internship

Applicants must apply through USAJOBS.

The general application process involves:

Step 1: Create or Log Into USAJOBS

Applicants must have a USAJOBS account.

Step 2: Select Your Resume

Select an appropriate federal resume from your USAJOBS account.

Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents

Upload proof of student status, transcripts, and any other documents required for your circumstances.

Step 4: Complete the Occupational Questionnaire

Applicants must answer the online application questions.

Step 5: Review Your Application

Carefully review all information before submitting.

Make sure your education, employment dates, experience, and eligibility information are accurate.

Step 6: Submit the Application

Click the appropriate submission button and ensure that the application is successfully submitted.

Step 7: Complete USA Hire Assessments

If required, complete the USA Hire assessments within the specified timeframe.

Step 8: Monitor Your Application

Applicants can log into their USAJOBS account to monitor the status of their application and review correspondence from the agency.

APPLY HERE

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Selection Process

After applications are submitted, HHS will review resumes and supporting documentation to determine whether applicants meet the minimum qualifications.

Eligible and qualified candidates may be referred to hiring managers.

Interviews may also be conducted.

The agency expects to make a selection within approximately 45 days after the closing date.

Applicants should therefore regularly check:

• Their email.
• Their USAJOBS account.
• Their application status.
• Any assessment notifications.

For more information about this application visit HERE

More global internship programs visit the OFY Website HERE

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Is Previous Work Experience Required?

The announcement focuses heavily on educational and student eligibility requirements rather than requiring a specific number of years of professional experience.

However, relevant experience can strengthen an application.

Experience in areas such as:

• Administration.
• Office support.
• Project coordination.
• Event coordination.
• Scheduling.
• Reporting.
• Communication.
• Program support.
• Research.
• Data compilation.
• Stakeholder coordination.
• Executive support.

may be useful when demonstrating suitability for the role.

Both paid and qualifying unpaid experience may be considered.

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Can This Internship Lead to a Permanent Federal Government Job?

Potentially, yes.

The Pathways Internship Program provides a potential route toward federal employment.

Interns may be eligible for non-competitive conversion to a permanent or term federal position after completing the applicable requirements.

To be considered for conversion, interns must generally:

• Complete at least 480 hours of internship work experience.
• Complete the required degree.
• Meet the qualification standards for the position.
• Meet agency-specific requirements.
• Successfully perform their duties.
• Complete required training and development requirements.

However, conversion is not guaranteed.

Factors such as funding, organizational needs, job availability, student performance, and education can affect whether conversion occurs.

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Why Students Should Consider This Opportunity

The HHS Student Intern position can provide an excellent foundation for students interested in government and administrative careers.

It combines:

• Practical government experience.
• Professional development.
• On-the-job training.
• Administrative experience.
• Program-support experience.
• Exposure to senior leadership.
• Potential federal career opportunities.

Students can use the experience to strengthen their future applications for government, nonprofit, consulting, business, project management, and administrative positions.

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Important Applicant Checklist

Before applying, make sure you can answer “Yes” to the following:

• Are you a U.S. citizen?
• Are you currently enrolled or accepted for enrollment?
• Are you pursuing a qualifying degree, diploma, or certificate?
• Are you in good academic standing?
• Do you meet the minimum GPA requirement?
• Do you meet the education requirements for the applicable grade level?
• Can you provide proof of student status?
• Can you provide transcripts if requested?
• Does your federal resume contain complete employment dates?
• Does your resume clearly describe your duties and accomplishments?
• Is your resume no more than two pages?
• Can you satisfy the required background investigation?
• Are you prepared to complete USA Hire assessments if required?
• Can you submit your application before the position closes?

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Pro Tip for Applicants

Federal government applications are different from ordinary private-sector job applications.

Do not submit a generic resume and expect the hiring team to infer your qualifications.

Instead, clearly document your relevant experience, responsibilities, accomplishments, dates, hours worked, education, and skills.

For example, rather than simply stating “excellent organizational skills,” explain how you used those skills to coordinate meetings, manage schedules, prepare reports, maintain records, support senior officials, organize events, compile information, or coordinate stakeholders.

Most importantly, apply as early as possible.

Because the announcement may close once the applicant limit is reached, waiting until August 14 could mean missing the opportunity even if the official deadline has not yet passed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this an internship or a job?

It is a Student Intern/Student Trainee internship under the federal government’s Pathways Internship Program.

Is the internship full-time?

Yes. The position is advertised as full-time.

Is the position remote?

No. It is not classified as a remote position, although it is telework eligible depending on agency policy.

How much does the internship pay?

The salary range is $31,103 to $45,239 per year, depending on duty location.

Can international students apply?

The announcement states that U.S. citizenship is required. Therefore, non-U.S. citizens do not meet the stated citizenship requirement.

Can applicants from Ghana apply?

Applicants from Ghana can only qualify if they meet the U.S. citizenship requirement and all other eligibility conditions. Ghanaian citizens who are not U.S. citizens do not meet the stated citizenship requirement.

What is the minimum GPA?

The minimum GPA is 2.5 for undergraduate degree programs and 3.0 for professional master’s degree programs.

Do I need previous professional experience?

The announcement does not establish a traditional minimum number of years of professional experience. However, relevant paid, unpaid, volunteer, academic, or organizational experience may strengthen your application.

Can volunteer experience count?

Yes. The announcement states that qualifying experience may include paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work.

Can this internship lead to a permanent federal position?

Potentially. Eligible interns may qualify for non-competitive conversion after satisfying the applicable Pathways requirements. However, conversion is not guaranteed.

When is the application deadline?

The stated deadline is August 14, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. However, the announcement may close earlier if the applicant limit is reached.

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Conclusion

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Student Intern (Administrative) opportunity offers eligible students an opportunity to gain practical experience within the U.S. federal government through the Pathways Internship Program.

Successful interns can develop valuable skills in administrative support, program support, scheduling, meeting coordination, reporting, organizational management, stakeholder engagement, presentation preparation, and senior leadership support.

The position also offers a competitive salary range of $31,103 to $45,239 per year, depending on location, and may provide a potential pathway toward future federal employment after successful completion of the Pathways requirements.

However, applicants must carefully review the eligibility criteria. U.S. citizenship is required, applicants must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in a qualifying educational program, and they must meet the relevant GPA and education requirements.

The application deadline is August 14, 2026, but because the announcement may close early after reaching its applicant limit, eligible candidates should submit their applications as soon as possible.