Are you interested in education policy? Do you want to improve your writing, research, communication, and time-management skills, all while making friends and exploring the nation’s capital? Consider applying to serve as an intern with the Department of Education. There are both Volunteer Trainee Programs and Pathways Programs available. Check the website to learn about opportunities in the Fall, Spring, and Summer.

Time Commitment: Usually 10 weeks (some longer or shorter); 20–40 hours per week in spring and fall terms, and full-time during the summer session

Compensation: Volunteer; unpaid

Location: Washington, D.C.

Qualifications:

• Must be at least 16 years old.
• Must attend an accredited educational institution (high school, trade school, junior college, college, university, or graduate school).
• Must have permission from the institution to participate in the internship.
• Must be enrolled not less than half of the time in a course of study related to internship work performed.

The duration of the internships vary. See below for typical program lengths: 

Student Volunteer Trainees – eight to ten weeks (the length of the program can be reduced or extended depending on circumstances.)

Pathways Interns not-to-exceed (NTE) (temporary appointment) – a current student who has been appointed to the internship program for an initial period that is not expected to last more than one year. However, appointment can be extended in 1-year increments if the student continues to meet the program requirements.

Pathways Interns (indefinite appointment) – a current student who has been appointed to the internship program for an initial period that is expected to last more than one year.

Pathways Recent Graduates – 1-year program

Pathways PMF – 2-year program

Each program has different deadlines to apply so be sure to check out this great opportunity!