Interns & Fellows
Whether you’re an undergraduate or postgraduate student seeking a substantive internship or fellowship supporting U.S. foreign policy, there’s no limit as to how far our opportunities can take you. You’ll have the opportunity to gain insight into U.S. foreign policy and diplomacy, explore new career avenues, and acquire lifelong skills as you represent America to the world.
You’ll work with architects, lT professionals, policy experts, and engineers who have diverse educational and cultural backgrounds, global perspectives, depth of knowledge, and technical skills, along with exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities. You can contribute your different perspectives and innovative thinking as you learn from Foreign and Civil Service professionals who work to support and advance U.S. interests worldwide.
The opportunities are endless—and they all start right here.
For those interested in the unpaid internship program, begin by finding out which office is right for you. You’ll need this information as you begin the application process.
We recommend you contact a Diplomat in Residence near you to learn more about each program and the different application, selection, and hiring processes.
Fellowships
Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Program
The Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Program honors former Congressman Rangel for his long-standing and vocal support for showing the world the diversity that is the strength of America, as well as his example of global leadership, by encouraging diverse individuals to pursue a career in diplomacy.
Foreign Affairs Information Technology Fellowship (FAIT)
The Foreign Affairs IT Fellowship (FAIT) is designed to attract outstanding students to prepare for a career applying their technology skills in support of the business of diplomacy as Information Management Specialists.
Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship Program
The Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship Program honors one of the most distinguished and capable American diplomats of the latter half of the 20th century.
Internships
The U.S. Department of State’s Pathways Internship Program includes both the Internship Temporary Program (ITEP) and the Internship Experience Program (IEP). Both programs are targeted toward U.S. citizens enrolled in a wide variety of educational institutions from high school to graduate school and professional academic levels. Both programs provide students with opportunities to explore Federal careers while being paid for the work performed.
U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program
The U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program is an unpaid internship with the opportunity to work in U.S. embassies and consulates throughout the world, as well as in various bureaus located in Washington, D.C. and at Department offices around the United States. This program is designed to provide substantive learning experiences in a foreign affairs environment.
U.S. Foreign Service Internship Program (USFSIP)
Established in 2014, this merit and needs-based opportunity is available to undergraduate rising sophomore and junior students with a 3.2 GPA or higher, who are available to participate in two consecutive summer internships.
Virtual Student Federal Service
The Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS) is the largest virtual internship in the world. Led by the U.S. Department of State, VSFS opens the doors of government to the excellence and energy of U.S. citizen students. Working from college and university campuses in the United States and throughout the world, eInterns are partnered with more than 60 federal agencies and U.S. diplomatic posts overseas.
Other Programs and Resources
Learn more about the other student programs available.
Visit the Department of State’s Student Resources, which contains links and resources for students, parents, and educators, as well as information for academic institutions wishing to apply for grants and programs for international students.