Find Federal Internships

The federal government offers students and recent graduates several programs to engage in public service.  

Pathways Internship Programs

  • Paid opportunities for students to intern at federal agencies 
  • Agencies may convert eligible participants to full-time employment after successful program completion 

There is a difference between a ‘regular’ internship and a ‘Pathways’ internship. 

  • A Pathways internship-After successfully completing 640 hours you are eligible for full-time conversion in any agency non-competitively and without submitting an application! Pathways internships are always paid! 

  • A regular internship-If after finishing the internship you want to return to work at the same agency, you need to apply and be in the competitive pool like everyone else. Regular internships are not necessarily paid. For example, The Department of State internships are nonpaid, however, they do have Pathways internships that are paid. 

Rule of thumb: The agency has control over what kind of internships they want to promote. Always check with the agency website for their individual internship programs. 

Federal Pathways Internship Program

This program provides enrolled students experience in the federal government. Learn more by reviewing the usajobs.gov website. 

The Recent Graduate Program

The Recent Graduate Program is designed for new graduates within the past two years. Learn more by reviewing this program at usajobs.gov. 

The Presidential Management Fellows Program

The Presidential Management Fellows Program, also known as the PMF, is a leadership development program for entry-level advanced degree candidates. Learn more by reviewing the usajobs.gov website. To learn how to submit a strong application, view this webinar. You will hear from new fellows, as well as PMF recruiters from various agencies. This is an opportunity to learn tips and strategies on the application process. 

Finding a Federal Internship

Students looking for federal internships should visit USA Jobs Pathways for opportunities for students and recent grads. The Pathways site features frequently asked questions with detailed information about types of opportunities and the application process. Go Government: This site will give you a glimpse into the federal government and will guide you through the application process from beginning to end. Federal agencies also list internship opportunities on their own Web sites. List of federal agency Web sites. 

Internships, Fellowships, and Other Work Experience Opportunities in the Federal Government

Updated (CRS) Congressional Research Service 2018 This report describes Internet resources on major internship, fellowship, and work experience programs within the federal government. It is intended as a selective guide for students of all levels: undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate. 

Other Helpful Resources