MPI Young Scholars Program 2027: Paid Research and Communications Internships for Emerging Migration Leaders

The Migration Policy Institute (MPI) is inviting applications for its prestigious Demetrios G. Papademetriou Young Scholars Program 2027, offering aspiring researchers, policy professionals, communicators, and migration specialists an opportunity to gain practical experience in one of the world’s leading independent think tanks focused on migration and human mobility.

The program provides paid internship opportunities for individuals interested in migration policy, refugee and asylum issues, immigrant integration, international development, public policy, communications, and related fields. Interns have the opportunity to contribute directly to meaningful research, policy analysis, communications initiatives, events, and public engagement activities while working alongside experienced professionals.

One of the notable features of the MPI internship program is its international accessibility. Internships are available both remotely and in person, and individuals residing outside the United States may also be eligible to participate under the program’s applicable work and residency requirements.

For the Spring 2027 internship cycle, interested applicants must submit their applications by October 15, 2026.

About the Migration Policy Institute

The Migration Policy Institute is an independent, nonpartisan, and nonprofit think tank dedicated to improving migration and mobility policies around the world. MPI conducts research and analysis on major migration-related issues and provides policymakers, practitioners, researchers, and the public with evidence-based insights into immigration systems and global mobility.

The Institute works across a broad range of issues, including:

• Immigration policy and systems
• Refugee protection and asylum
• Border management and migration enforcement
• Immigrant integration
• Education and workforce development
• International migration
• Labor migration
• Migration and development
• Refugee and forced displacement
• Social cohesion
• Language access
• Returns and reintegration

Through its research, publications, events, and policy engagement, MPI contributes to discussions and decision-making on some of the most important migration challenges facing societies worldwide.

About the Demetrios G. Papademetriou Young Scholars Program

The internship program is named in honor of Demetrios G. Papademetriou, the founding president of the Migration Policy Institute.

The Young Scholars Program was established to pursue two important objectives:

1. To benefit from the perspectives, skills, and contributions of talented interns supporting MPI’s work.
2. To help train and prepare the next generation of migration researchers, policy experts, and communications professionals.

The program reflects MPI’s commitment to mentorship and professional development by providing emerging professionals with meaningful exposure to migration research, policy discussions, communications, and public engagement.

The internship program was officially named the Demetrios G. Papademetriou Young Scholars Program in 2021. Papademetriou led MPI from its establishment in 2001 until 2014 and continued serving as President Emeritus and Distinguished Transatlantic Fellow until his death.

Throughout his career, he demonstrated a strong commitment to mentoring and supporting emerging migration thinkers and policy professionals. The Young Scholars Program continues this legacy by creating opportunities for young and early-career professionals to develop their expertise and build careers in migration-related fields.

MPI Internship Program Areas

Research interns can work across several specialized program areas at the Migration Policy Institute. These areas provide opportunities to explore different dimensions of migration policy and develop expertise in specific fields.

1. U.S. Immigration

Interns working in the U.S. Immigration program may contribute to research and policy analysis relating to major immigration issues in the United States.

Areas of focus may include:

• Asylum systems
• Refugee pathways
• Border management
• Immigration enforcement
• Legal immigration
• Temporary and permanent migration pathways
• Unauthorized immigration
• Employment outcomes of highly educated immigrants
• Immigration and demographic trends
• Economic trends related to migration
• Policy reform proposals

This program is particularly relevant for applicants interested in immigration law, public policy, political science, economics, sociology, and migration studies.

2. International Migration

The International Migration program focuses on comparative migration policies and global mobility challenges.

Research may address areas such as:

• Refugee resettlement
• Asylum systems
• Immigrant integration
• Labor market integration
• Social cohesion
• Labor migration
• Borders and mobility
• Migration and development
• Returns and reintegration

Interns may gain exposure to comparative policy analysis and international migration systems while examining how governments and institutions respond to migration challenges across different regions.

3. U.S. Immigrant Integration

The U.S. Immigrant Integration program focuses on policies and systems that influence how immigrants integrate into communities, education systems, and labor markets.

Research areas may include:

• Early childhood education and care
• Dual Language Learners
• English Learners
• K-12 immigrant education
• Adult education
• Workforce development
• Professional training
• State and local immigration policies
• Integration services
• Language access policies

This program may be particularly suitable for individuals interested in education policy, social policy, workforce development, immigrant integration, and community development.

4. Latin America and Caribbean Initiative

The Latin America and Caribbean Initiative examines migration dynamics and policy responses across Latin America and the Caribbean.

Key areas of work include:

• Mixed migration flows
• Migration from northern Central America
• Venezuelan migration
• Migration management systems
• Host-country responses
• Regional development policies
• Immigrant integration
• Challenges and opportunities affecting migrants and host communities

The initiative pays particular attention to countries such as:

• Mexico
• Costa Rica
• Colombia
• Venezuela
• Countries in northern Central America

Applicants interested in this program should note that written proficiency and oral fluency in Spanish are required.

5. Refugee and Forced Displacement Initiative

The Refugee and Forced Displacement Initiative focuses on research and policy approaches affecting refugees and forcibly displaced populations.

The initiative examines issues including:

• Refugee agency
• Lived experiences of displaced populations
• Refugee livelihoods
• Economic self-reliance
• Host-country integration
• Global refugee responses
• The role of faith in responding to forced displacement

This program offers an opportunity for emerging researchers and policy professionals to engage with some of the world’s most pressing humanitarian and displacement challenges.

What Do MPI Research Interns Do?

Research interns play an active role in supporting the Institute’s research and policy work. Rather than simply observing organizational activities, interns may contribute to projects and research initiatives across their assigned program areas.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Conducting independent quantitative research
• Conducting qualitative research
• Supporting policy analysis
• Contributing to broader MPI research projects
• Preparing literature reviews and summaries
• Drafting research papers and other written materials
• Summarizing congressional hearings and relevant events
• Monitoring public and private policy discussions
• Supporting MPI events and convenings
• Performing selected administrative duties

The experience can be particularly valuable for individuals who want to strengthen their research methodology, policy analysis, academic writing, and professional communication skills.

MPI Communications Internship

In addition to research opportunities, MPI offers a dedicated Communications Internship for individuals interested in strategic communications, digital media, public engagement, journalism, and content development.

The communications internship provides participants with exposure to the Institute’s broad range of research activities while supporting the dissemination of research and policy information to diverse audiences.

Communications interns may be involved in:

• Media monitoring and tracking
• Developing social media campaigns
• Creating visual communication assets
• Supporting event organization
• Assisting with event execution
• Promoting the Migration Information Source magazine
• Producing short-form written content
• Supporting multimedia editing activities

This internship can be especially beneficial for students and early-career professionals interested in combining communications expertise with public policy, international affairs, migration, or social impact.

MPI Internship Duration and Schedule

The MPI internship program lasts for approximately four months and operates through three main cycles each year.

While there may be flexibility in specific internship start and end dates, the standard internship cycles are:

Spring Internship Cycle

January to April

Application deadline: October 15

Summer Internship Cycle

May to August

Application deadline: February 15

Fall Internship Cycle

September to December

Application deadline: June 15

For applicants targeting the Spring 2027 cycle, the application deadline is:

October 15, 2026

Applicants are encouraged to prepare and submit their materials early to avoid last-minute challenges.

Paid Internship Stipend

One of the major benefits of the MPI Young Scholars Program is that selected interns receive financial support during their internship.

Full-time interns receive a stipend of:

$1,472 every two weeks

Part-time interns receive a prorated stipend based on their work schedule.

This financial support helps make the internship more accessible to emerging professionals who want to gain meaningful experience in migration research, policy, and communications.

Students may also be able to arrange academic credit for their internship, depending on the policies and requirements of their colleges or universities.

However, applicants should note that MPI does not cover relocation expenses.

Remote and In-Person Internship Opportunities

The MPI internship program offers flexibility in how participants complete their internships.

Depending on the role and program area, internships may be available:

• Remotely
• In person
• On a full-time basis
• On a part-time basis

Full-time interns are particularly sought for:

• U.S. Immigrant Integration
• Communications

The availability of remote opportunities makes the program especially attractive to qualified candidates who may not be able to relocate to the United States.

MPI also states that internships are available to individuals residing outside the United States, subject to the applicable requirements.

Who Can Apply for the MPI Young Scholars Program?

The Migration Policy Institute welcomes applications from individuals at different stages of their academic and professional journeys.

Applicants should generally meet the following requirements.

Academic and Professional Background

For all internship positions, applicants should be at least a junior in college.

Eligible candidates include:

• Undergraduate students
• College juniors and seniors
• Recent college graduates
• Graduate students
• Early-career professionals

MPI also considers applicants without college experience if they can demonstrate substantial relevant professional experience.

Communication Skills

Applicants must demonstrate strong:

• Oral communication skills
• Written communication skills

Because many internship responsibilities involve research, writing, analysis, and communications, the ability to communicate ideas clearly and effectively is essential.

Relevant Experience and Skills

Relevant academic, professional, or research experience may strengthen an application.

Helpful skills include:

• Policy research
• Academic research
• Quantitative analysis
• Qualitative analysis
• Professional writing
• Policy analysis
• Migration studies
• Communications
• Social media
• Multimedia editing
• Event support

Technical and Software Skills

Proficiency in key software programs, including Microsoft Office and other relevant digital tools, can be advantageous.

Strong quantitative skills may also be helpful for research-focused positions.

Foreign Language Skills

Foreign language proficiency can be an additional advantage depending on the internship area.

However, applicants interested in the Latin America and Caribbean Initiative should note that:

Written proficiency and oral fluency in Spanish are required.

Diversity and Inclusion

MPI is committed to creating an inclusive working environment that reflects diverse experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives.

The Institute aims to recruit and support interns from a broad range of communities and backgrounds in the countries and regions where it works.

The organization particularly encourages applications from:

• Minority applicants
• Individuals from immigrant backgrounds
• Individuals from refugee backgrounds

MPI emphasizes equity and access and seeks to ensure that interns and staff can work in an inclusive professional environment.

Can International Applicants Apply?

Yes. MPI states that applicants do not need to be U.S. citizens to apply.

However, work authorization requirements apply depending on where the selected intern will perform their work.

Applicants who will work within the United States must generally have authorization to work in the country before beginning the internship.

MPI does not provide visa sponsorship or supporting documentation for several visa categories, including:

• H-1B visas
• J-1 visas
• H-3 visas
• F-1 visas

However, individuals residing outside the United States may be able to participate if they remain outside the United States and work remotely throughout the internship cycle.

International applicants should carefully consider their individual work authorization and location circumstances before applying.

Benefits of the MPI Young Scholars Program

The Demetrios G. Papademetriou Young Scholars Program provides several professional and career development benefits.

Selected interns may benefit from:

1. Paid Professional Experience

Full-time interns receive a biweekly stipend of $1,472, while part-time interns receive prorated compensation.

2. Exposure to Global Migration Issues

Participants gain practical exposure to important issues affecting migrants, refugees, governments, and communities worldwide.

3. Research and Policy Experience

Research interns can develop skills in:

• Quantitative research
• Qualitative research
• Policy analysis
• Literature review
• Academic writing
• Professional research

4. Communications Experience

Communications interns can gain practical experience in:

• Media monitoring
• Social media campaigns
• Visual communications
• Event promotion
• Short-form writing
• Multimedia content

5. Flexible Work Arrangements

Depending on the internship and program area, opportunities may be available remotely or in person.

6. International Accessibility

The program welcomes non-U.S. citizens and may accommodate individuals working remotely from outside the United States.

7. Academic Credit Opportunities

Eligible students may be able to arrange academic credit through their educational institutions.

8. Professional Networking

Interns gain exposure to experienced researchers, policy professionals, communications specialists, and others working in migration-related fields.

9. Career Development

The internship can provide valuable experience for future careers in:

• Public policy
• International development
• Migration studies
• Refugee and humanitarian work
• Research
• Think tanks
• Government
• Nonprofit organizations
• International organizations
• Journalism
• Strategic communications
• Social impact

Required Application Documents

Applicants must complete an online application form and separately submit supporting documents.

The required materials include the following.

1. CV or Resume

Applicants should submit an updated CV or resume highlighting:

• Education
• Relevant professional experience
• Research experience
• Academic achievements
• Technical skills
• Language skills
• Relevant volunteer experience

2. Cover Letter

Applicants must submit a cover letter of no more than two single-spaced pages.

The cover letter should explain:

• Your personal interest in migration
• Your professional interest in migration
• Interest in another relevant public policy issue
• Which MPI program area or areas you wish to be considered for
• Relevant research experience
• Relevant academic experience
• Relevant professional experience

Applicants should ensure that the cover letter clearly connects their background and interests to the specific internship area they are applying for.

3. Writing Sample

Applicants must submit a writing sample of no more than five single-spaced pages in English.

The writing sample should demonstrate the applicant’s ability to write clearly and analytically about relevant subjects.

Suitable writing samples may include:

• University course papers
• Policy memoranda
• Research reports
• Published articles

The topic may focus on:

• Migration
• Immigrant integration
• Refugee issues
• Public policy
• Other related policy subjects

Applicants submitting an excerpt from a longer document should select sections that best demonstrate their analytical and writing abilities.

4. Academic Transcript

Applicants must provide an official or unofficial transcript from all colleges or universities they have attended.

The transcript should show:

• Courses completed
• Academic performance
• Grades

Important Policy on the Use of Artificial Intelligence

Applicants should pay close attention to MPI’s policy regarding artificial intelligence tools.

MPI states that application materials must reflect the applicant’s authentic abilities and personal voice.

According to the stated application policy, using AI tools such as ChatGPT or Claude to write or substantially revise application materials may result in disqualification.

Applicants should therefore prepare their:

• Cover letter
• Writing sample
• Other submitted materials

using their own original work, ideas, writing ability, and voice.

This requirement is particularly important because MPI uses the application process to evaluate candidates’ actual communication and analytical skills.

Applicants should carefully review the official instructions before submitting any application materials.

How to Apply for the MPI Young Scholars Program 2027

Interested applicants must complete two main application steps.

Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form

Applicants should complete the official online application form provided by MPI.

Application Form:  APPLY HERE

Step 2: Submit Supporting Documents by Email

Applicants must separately send the required application materials to: InternshipApplications@migrationpolicy.org

The email subject line must follow the required format:

First Name Last Name_Spring 2027

Applicants should include:

• CV or Resume
• Cover Letter
• Writing Sample
• Academic Transcript

Candidates should ensure that all documents meet the stated page limits and requirements before submission.

Application Deadline

The application deadline for the Spring 2027 MPI Young Scholars Program internship cycle is: October 15, 2026

The Spring internship period generally runs from: January 2027 to April 2027

Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline and carefully verify that all required documents have been included.

Important Application Considerations

Before submitting an application, candidates should consider the following important points.

Choose the Most Relevant Program Area

Applicants should carefully review MPI’s available research and communications areas and identify the program that best aligns with their:

• Academic background
• Research interests
• Career goals
• Professional experience

Demonstrate Genuine Interest

The cover letter should demonstrate a clear and authentic interest in migration, public policy, refugee issues, immigrant integration, or another relevant field.

Select a Strong Writing Sample

Because analytical and written communication skills are important for the program, applicants should choose a writing sample that clearly demonstrates their ability to:

• Analyze complex issues
• Conduct research
• Present evidence
• Develop arguments
• Communicate clearly

Follow All Instructions Carefully

Applicants should pay close attention to:

• Page limits
• File requirements
• Application deadlines
• Required subject line
• Language requirements
• AI policy
• Work authorization requirements

Failure to follow application instructions could negatively affect an otherwise strong application.

What Happens After Applying?

Due to the high volume of applications received, MPI does not provide individual application status updates.

The organization will contact candidates who are selected for interviews.

Applicants are therefore advised not to contact MPI by phone or email to request updates regarding their application status.

Candidates should ensure that the contact information provided in their application is accurate and regularly check their email after submitting their materials.

Why the MPI Internship Is a Valuable Opportunity

The Demetrios G. Papademetriou Young Scholars Program is more than a traditional internship. It provides emerging professionals with an opportunity to engage directly with contemporary migration issues while developing practical skills in research, policy analysis, communications, and professional collaboration.

Migration continues to be one of the most important global policy issues, influencing economies, politics, education systems, labor markets, humanitarian responses, and international relations.

As governments and organizations seek solutions to challenges involving forced displacement, refugee protection, labor mobility, immigrant integration, and border management, there is an increasing need for professionals who can understand complex migration systems and contribute evidence-based solutions.

The MPI Young Scholars Program can therefore be a valuable stepping stone for individuals seeking to build careers in policy research, international affairs, humanitarian work, development, communications, and migration studies.

Visit HERE to learn more about the MPI Young Scholars Program 2027.

Conclusion

The MPI Young Scholars Program 2027 presents an excellent opportunity for students, graduates, early-career professionals, researchers, and aspiring communications specialists interested in migration and public policy.

Through paid internships lasting approximately four months, participants can gain hands-on experience supporting research, policy analysis, communications campaigns, events, and other activities at the Migration Policy Institute.

With opportunities available across research areas such as U.S. immigration, international migration, immigrant integration, Latin America and the Caribbean, and refugee and forced displacement, applicants can pursue an internship aligned with their academic interests and professional ambitions.

The program’s flexible structure, including remote and in-person opportunities, also creates possibilities for applicants from different parts of the world.

For those interested in joining the Spring 2027 internship cycle, applications must be submitted by October 15, 2026. Eligible candidates should begin preparing their application materials early, carefully review the official requirements, and ensure that their CV, cover letter, writing sample, and transcripts are submitted according to MPI’s instructions.

For more information and to apply, visit the official Migration Policy Institute internship page and complete the required application process before the deadline.

For more Internship opportunity visit OFY HERE