Summary

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is offering internships for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as recent graduates. These internships provide an invaluable opportunity to gain practical experience in international relations, public policy, and related fields. Interns will also develop professional skills and build a diverse network.

  • 🌍 CSIS Internships 2026 are open in the United States for both international and U.S. students interested in international relations, public policy, and related fields.
  • 🎓 Eligible applicants include undergraduate students (with at least two years completed), graduate students, and recent graduates.
  • 🏛️ CSIS (Center for Strategic and International Studies) is a non-profit, bipartisan policy research organization focused on addressing global challenges through strategic insights and policy solutions.
  • 💰 Paid internship opportunities are available, with hourly wages generally ranging from $16.10 to $18.10 per hour depending on the position.
  • 🏠 Internship benefits include practical work experience, professional skill development, networking opportunities, exposure to diverse perspectives, and a 10% accommodation discount in Washington, D.C.
  • 📋 Required application documents include a resume, cover letter, and writing sample submitted through the online application system.
  • 🌎 All nationalities can apply, but candidates must be legally eligible to work in the United States. CSIS does not sponsor visas, although some interns may apply under eligible visa categories such as J-1.
  • 🔬 Internship fields include Global Health Policy, China Studies, Congressional & Government Affairs, Africa Program, Australia Chair, Strategic Planning, Multimedia Production, Innovation Projects, Diversity & Leadership, and Transnational Threats.
  • 📅 Application cycles occur three times per year:
    • Summer Intake – February
    • Fall Intake – July
    • Spring Intake – October
  • 💻 Application process: Candidates must submit an online application through the official CSIS website.
  • 🚀 Ideal for students and graduates seeking hands-on experience, policy research exposure, and career development in international affairs and public policy.

Designation

Intern at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)

Internship FieldsHourly Wage
Renewing American Innovation Project$18.10/hour
Indian States / Wadhwani Chair in U.S.-India Policy Studies$16.10–18.10/hour
Strategic Planning$16.10–18.10/hour
Multimedia Production Intern-iDeas Lab$16.10–18.10/hour
Congressional & Government Affairs$16.10–18.10/hour
Australia Chair$16.10–18.10/hour
Africa Program$16.10–18.10/hour
Diversity and Leadership in International Affairs Project$18.10/hour
Transnational Threats Project$16.10–18.10/hour
Global Health Policy Center$16.10–18.10/hour
China Power Project$16.10–18.10/hour
Freeman Chair in China Studies$16.10–18.10/hour

Research Area

International Relations, Public Policy, Global Health, Strategic Planning

Location

Washington, United States

Eligibility/Qualification

  • Must have a minimum of two years of undergraduate or be a graduate student or recent graduate.
  • Candidates from all nationalities are eligible to apply.
  • U.S. nationals and non-U.S. nationals can apply on a sponsor visa; CSIS does not sponsor visas.
  • Candidates must be eligible to work in the U.S.

Job Description

Interns will:

  • Assist in research and policy analysis.
  • Support project management efforts.
  • Engage with professionals in international relations and public policy.
  • Contribute to important ongoing projects and initiatives.

How to Apply

The application process is entirely online. Interested candidates should submit:

  • A resume
  • A cover letter
  • A writing sample

For specific details and to apply, visit the official CSIS website.

Last Date to Apply

  • Applications are accepted for three intakes throughout the year:
  • Summer Intake: Deadline in February
  • Fall Intake: Deadline in July
  • Spring Intake: Deadline in October

Ensure to check the CSIS website for exact deadlines and additional details.