Students and Recent Graduates

The program provides current high school, college, graduate and advanced degree students with paid opportunities to work in federal agencies. Internships may be part-time or full-time, and they may be yearlong or limited to the summer. Agencies hire interns on a temporary basis for up to one year on a specific project or for an indefinite period until the intern completes their degree.

This program is a one  to two-year developmental program designed for individuals who have received an undergraduate, graduate or advanced degree from a qualifying educational institution or program. Candidates must apply within two years of receiving their degree, except for veterans who have up to six years to apply due to their military obligations. Program participants receive at least 40 hours of training and professional development  and complete an individual development plan. They are also assigned  a mentor they can work with during their time on the program.  If they meet certain requirements, participants may be eligible to convert to full-time federal employment.

Many federal agencies and departments offer unpaid training opportunities to students currently enrolled in an academic program. Student volunteer’s gain valuable work experience in the federal government as it relates to their field. Interested students should look on agency websites’ career pages for volunteer opportunities or contact the personnel office at the federal agency or department of their choice. Visit the Public Service Internship Finder to discover volunteer opportunities across agencies.