Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Internship Program provides hands-on experience to undergraduate, graduate, and recently graduated students with interests in global affairs, public policy, and international relations. Interns support specific CSIS departments or programs through research, writing, and project development. In addition to these responsibilities, interns also benefit from professional development activities through the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy (AILA), CSIS’s in-house leadership training platform.
This paid internship opportunity is available for full-time and part-time participation across three terms each year: Spring (January–May), Summer (June–August), and Fall (September–December). The program is designed to cultivate the next generation of foreign policy leaders and provide meaningful career-building experiences in Washington, D.C.
Internship Benefits
CSIS Internship Program offers a range of professional and financial benefits to support interns throughout their term:
- Paid Internship: All CSIS internships are paid. Interns must have work authorization in the United States to receive compensation.
- Professional Development: Participation in the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy (AILA), featuring skills training and high-level discussions on global affairs.
- Exclusive Networking Events: Interns have access to high-level events, expert talks, and policy briefings exclusive to CSIS staff and affiliates.
- Housing Discount: Interns receive a 10% discount on housing through Washington Intern Student Housing (WISH).
- Flexible Work Structure: Both full-time and part-time positions are available depending on academic and professional commitments.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the CSIS Internship Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Education Level: Must have completed at least two years of undergraduate education and be in good academic standing or be a recent graduate.
- Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the United States. CSIS does not sponsor visas for internship positions.
- Foreign Nationals: Can apply if they possess valid work authorization documents (e.g., F-1 OPT, CPT).
- Academic Background: No specific field of study is required, but a strong interest in international relations, political science, or public policy is preferred.
- Professional Readiness: Demonstrated interest or experience in research, policy analysis, writing, or project coordination is an advantage.
Application Process
Applying for the CSIS Internship Program involves the following steps:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the educational and employment eligibility criteria.
- Prepare Required Documents: Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, and (if applicable) a writing sample or link to a professional portfolio.
- Apply Online: All applications must be submitted through the CSIS online careers portal at https://careers.csis.org. Paper or email applications are not accepted.
- Document Upload: During the application process, upload all required documents on the designated section of the application portal.
- Cover Letter Addressing: Address your cover letter to “To Whom It May Concern” as multiple reviewers may assess your application.
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Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents as part of their application:
- Cover Letter: Tailored to the internship program and area of interest.
- Resume or CV: Outlining education, skills, and relevant experiences.
- Writing Sample/Portfolio: If requested by the specific program.
- Academic Transcript: Unofficial transcripts are accepted.
- Proof of Work Authorization (if applicable): Required for non-U.S. citizens.
Selection Process
The selection for CSIS internships is competitive and based on:
- Academic Performance: Academic standing and relevant coursework.
- Skills and Experience: Research, writing, or project experience in relevant fields.
- Interest Alignment: Clear interest in CSIS’s mission and programs.
- Application Quality: Clarity, completeness, and professionalism of submitted materials.
- Availability: Candidates available for full program term are preferred.
Internship Duration
CSIS hosts interns on a semester basis:
- Spring Term: January – May
- Summer Term: June – August
- Fall Term: September – December
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the internships at CSIS varies. Applicants are therefore encouraged to check the call for application for each of the internship deadlines.
