15 International Relations Internships for Undergraduates
Internships are a strong option for undergraduates if you want to strengthen your resume, gain professional skills, and see how organizations operate. Through research, documentation, coordination, and project work, you’ll develop professional communication, understand workflow expectations, and learn how to collaborate effectively. Online internships make these opportunities more accessible by removing geographic barriers. If you are interested in international relations, internships help you explore how policy analysis, diplomacy, international development, and global advocacy function in professional settings.
Why should I do an international relations internship in college?
An international relations internship gives you the chance to apply what you learn in the classroom to research, writing, and policy projects. You will learn how policy analysis and decision-making operate, and develop analytical, communication, and project management skills. An internship provides opportunities to collaborate with professionals and peers, expanding your network to mentors who can guide your academic and career path. By interning, you’ll build a clearer understanding of the field, deepen your expertise, and build a solid resume for graduate programs or roles in international relations.
The list below focuses on programs that offer prestige, academic rigor, professional experience, and networking opportunities. Here are 15 international relations internships for undergraduates!
1. Ladder University Internship Program
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies by program type. Financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Approximately 25%. Around 100 students per cohort
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year. Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort. Spring January. Summer May. Fall September. Winter November
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduates, and gap year students who can work 10–20 hours per week for 8–12 weeks
The Ladder University Internship Program is a remote internship program that matches you with early-stage startups and growth-stage companies for project-based work over an eight-week term. Project work centers on a single business or research objective and involves background research, written analysis, and documentation tied to organizational goals. Regular check-ins with a company coach and a company mentor help guide progress and clarify expectations throughout the placement. Collaboration takes place through shared documents and scheduled virtual meetings with distributed teams. Many host organizations operate across regions or international markets, which introduces exposure to cross-border operations and policy considerations. The internship concludes with a final project deliverable that reflects the work completed during the program. Apply now!
2. Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) Robina Franklin Williams Internship Program
Location: New York, NY, and Washington, D.C.
Cost/Stipend: Paid. Competitive hourly wage
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Semester-based. Spring, Summer, Fall
Application Deadline: Varies by semester
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students in related fields
The Council on Foreign Relations Internship Program offers paid opportunities for undergraduate students to work alongside staff at one of the world’s leading foreign policy think tanks. You will contribute to research, writing, editing, event support, and departmental assistance across areas like Digital Content, Global Communications, and Studies Programs. You’ll also participate in a professional development series that includes skill-building workshops, training sessions, and career conversations designed to strengthen research, writing, and analytical abilities. The program operates on a hybrid basis in New York and Washington, DC, with fully remote options also available, and typically runs during academic semesters.
3. U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program
Location: Washington, D.C., U.S. embassies, and field offices
Cost/Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate/cohort size: ~25%; ~100 students per cohort
Dates: Fall, Spring, Summer sessions across the academic year
Application deadline: Varies by session
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students from any field of study
The U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program places you in a diplomatic environment where you’ll support work related to U.S. foreign policy and international affairs at Department bureaus in Washington, D.C., and at U.S. embassies or consulates abroad. Your responsibilities may include researching political or economic issues, drafting reports or communications that support policy objectives, and assisting with briefings, events, or public outreach efforts. You’ll contribute to operational work tied to visa services, cultural exchange programs, or constituent services, with duties shaped by your bureau assignment. Throughout the internship, you will engage with professional staff and gain applied exposure to how diplomatic missions and international programs function, including cross-border coordination and global issue tracking.
4. US Agency for International Development (USAID) Internships
Location: Washington, D.C.
Cost/Stipend: Paid and unpaid positions available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: ~25%; ~100 students per cohort
Dates: Summer and semester sessions
Application deadline: Varies by session
Eligibility: U.S. citizens who are actively enrolled undergraduate or graduate students
The USAID Internship Program lets you work within a federal agency focused on international development, economic growth, health, education, governance, and humanitarian assistance. In this role, you will support professional staff by conducting research, preparing analyses, organizing documentation, and contributing to program activities that align with USAID’s international mission. Your work may involve drafting briefs, compiling data, tracking project progress, or preparing materials that inform operational decisions. Internships are offered during academic terms and sometimes over the summer, with opportunities in Washington, D.C., and, for select tracks, in overseas missions where you’ll observe how development programs function across regions. Throughout the placement, you will interact with USAID personnel and participate in professional activities that broaden your understanding of federal operations and global policy processes.
5. Women’s Foreign Policy Group (WFPG) Internship
Location: Washington, D.C.
Stipend: Part-time (20 hours/week): $1,000; Full-time (40 hours/week): $2,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed; applications capped at 100 per term
Dates: Spring, Summer, Fall semesters; 12-week terms
Application deadline: Spring: November 1; Summer: March 19; Fall: July 11
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students eligible to work in the United States
The Women’s Foreign Policy Group Internship focuses on supporting organizational efforts to advance women’s leadership in foreign policy. Depending on your assigned track from programs, communications, or operations, you may assist with event planning, outreach, research, writing, or internal organizational initiatives. Program interns support policy and mentorship events by managing RSVPs, preparing materials, conducting research on speakers and topics, and drafting summaries or articles for the website. Communications interns focus on raising WFPG’s visibility through digital platforms, newsletters, and design projects. Operations interns contribute to internal strategy and business processes to support organizational growth. You will have opportunities to attend external events at embassies, think tanks, and the State Department while networking with mid- and senior-level professionals in international affairs. The internship runs in person, with standard office hours and occasional evening events.
6. United Nations Headquarters Internship Programme
Location: New York
Cost: None; interns are responsible for travel, accommodation, and living expenses
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: 2–6 months; start date must be before or within one year of graduation
Application Deadline: Varies by office
Eligibility: Students or recent graduates (within 1 year) of Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. programs
The United Nations Internship Programme offers a structured opportunity to engage in analytical, research, and policy-focused tasks within professional teams. Your responsibilities may include preparing briefing materials, drafting reports, assisting with conferences or meetings, and conducting data analysis. You’ll gain exposure to the UN’s international and multicultural work environment and observe high-level meetings and decision-making processes. Your projects and duties are determined by the office to which you are assigned and may vary widely depending on operational needs. You are expected to maintain confidentiality for sensitive documents and information encountered during their placement. The internship follows a full-time schedule in person at the UN Headquarters in New York. While the program is unpaid, academic credit may be available through your home institution. You may also apply to other UN agencies for similar internship opportunities through their respective portals.
7. Fund for Peace (FFP) Internship
Location: Washington, D.C.; virtual options available
Stipend: Part-time: $350/month | Full-time: $700/month
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Cohort size not publicly specified
Dates: Flexible, by semester or summer
Application deadline: Spring: November 15 | Summer: March 15 | Fall: June 15
Eligibility: Undergraduate students, graduate students, and recent graduates
The Fund for Peace (FFP) Internship involves research and analysis on global conflict prevention, governance, and development initiatives. You will contribute to research, analysis, writing, and event support as part of the organization’s ongoing policy work. You’ll gain exposure to the structure and functioning of a multilateral organization while contributing to ongoing programs and initiatives. You will have the opportunity to work on active projects focused on fragile states, security trends, and governance-related research.
8. Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Internship
Location: Washington, D.C. (Headquarters)
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Paid, hourly wage; cohort size not publicly specified
Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer sessions; typically 12–16 weeks
Application deadline: Varies by session
Eligibility: Undergraduate students (after completing 2 years), graduate students, and recent graduates; must have U.S. work authorization
The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Internship engages you in research, analysis, and policy work on global security, economics, and international affairs. You will participate in the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy (AILA), which supplements your work with discussions on global affairs and policy skills development. You’ll engage in both full-time and part-time roles depending on the session, and gain exposure to current international policy issues. You may attend public events, assist with program initiatives, and collaborate with CSIS professionals on research projects. Compensation is provided through an hourly wage for eligible interns - foreign nationals must have U.S. work authorization to receive payment. You manage your own schedules under the guidance of department supervisors and develop professional skills in a leading foreign policy think tank.
9. Organization of American States (OAS) Internship Program
Location: Washington, D.C. (Headquarters) and OAS offices in member states; and virtual
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: January 8 – April 24
Application deadline: August 25 – September 12
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students from OAS member states
The Organization of American States (OAS) Internship Program provides undergraduate and graduate students with experience in research, policy analysis, and projects related to regional governance, human rights, and international cooperation. The internship places you within the General Secretariat of the Organization of American States or one of its country offices, supporting work connected to democracy, human rights, security, or development in the Americas. Your responsibilities vary by department and may include policy research, project support, documentation, coordination tasks, or administrative assistance tied to ongoing programs. You will participate in a structured weekly orientation program that introduces the organization’s mandate, internal processes, and institutional framework. Depending on placement and eligibility, the internship may be completed in person or fully virtual, with full-time working hours during the session. As an intern, you are required to complete a performance evaluation at the end of the internship period.
10. American Enterprise Institute (AEI) Internship Program
Location: Washington, D.C.
Cost: None; educational assistance benefit available for eligible interns
Acceptance Rate/cohort Size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: Fall: September–December; Spring: January–April; Summer: Late May–Mid-August
Application Deadline: Rolling until positions are filled
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students, as well as recent graduates
The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) Internship Program offers students opportunities to work on research, policy analysis, and writing projects focused on economics, foreign and domestic policy, and social and political issues. If selected, you will work with a research or operational team at the AEI in areas such as foreign and defense policy, economic policy, domestic policy, or communications. Your responsibilities vary by placement and may include conducting literature reviews, supporting quantitative or qualitative research, preparing background materials, or assisting with events and publications. As an intern, you will work on the business side of the organization, especially on projects related to development, external relations, media, or government affairs. The program follows a structured 12-week format with required weekly intern programming, including conversations with scholars and professional development sessions. You are expected to contribute to ongoing projects while coordinating closely with assigned mentors and supervisors. Most positions are designed for in-person participation, with remote or hybrid arrangements considered on a limited basis.
11. Hudson Institute Internship Program
Location: Washington, D.C.; remote or hybrid options may be available
Cost/Stipend: None; some positions may offer a stipend
Acceptance Rate/cohort Size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: Fall: September–December; Spring: January–May; Summer: June–August
Application Deadline: Semester-based; varies by term
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students, as well as recent graduates
The Hudson Institute Internship Program lets you contribute to policy research and analysis on global security, economic policy, and international affairs. In this internship, you work within a specific research program or department at the Hudson Institute, where work centers on policy areas such as international relations, national security, economic policy, or technology. Assignments typically involve conducting background research, compiling data, preparing written materials, and assisting with event-related or administrative tasks. You’ll work under the supervision of a senior fellow or program staff member, with responsibilities aligned to ongoing research and publications. For on-site roles, the program includes access to public talks, briefings, and internal events hosted at the Institute. Remote or hybrid internships emphasize independent research and coordination with supervisors through scheduled check-ins. Internships are structured around academic terms and generally run for approximately twelve weeks.
12. Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) Internship Program
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in person. Remote options available
Cost: None. Limited need based stipends available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: Spring: February to April. Summer: June to August. Fall: October to December
Application deadline: Summer: February 9 to March 6
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students
The Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) Internship Program assigns you to a specific functional or research track, such as regional research, events and development, communications, or operations. Your responsibilities depend on the track and may include supporting scholars with background research, tracking regional developments, or organizing source materials for ongoing projects. In non-research roles, work can involve coordinating event logistics, assisting with publications or digital content, or supporting internal program operations. Research interns work within defined regional programs and contribute to projects focused on areas such as the Middle East, Eurasia, Africa, or Asia. During the summer term, the program includes scheduled seminars on foreign policy topics and professional pathways featuring external speakers. You are given access to FPRI-hosted public events and internal programming throughout the internship period. Positions are offered either in person or remotely, depending on the role and department.
13. UC Davis Global Affairs — Student Jobs and Internships
Location: Davis, California
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: Year round. Positions vary by academic term
Application deadline: Varies by position
Eligibility: UC Davis undergraduate and graduate students
UC Davis Global Affairs offers a range of student jobs and internships covering areas such as international relations, global education, communications, research support, partnerships, and program administration. Depending on the role, your work may involve supporting international delegations, preparing country or institutional briefs, assisting with global fellowship programs, or coordinating events and outreach initiatives. Some positions focus on communications tasks such as content creation, social media management, design, photography, or video production for Global Affairs programs. Other roles emphasize data management, policy research, partnership tracking, or support for international agreements and faculty engagement. Opportunities are structured as paid student employment or internships and are posted individually based on departmental needs. Positions may be in-person, hybrid, or virtual, depending on the specific role and term. Applications are submitted through UC Davis’s student employment platforms, with responsibilities and schedules defined by each position.
14. Los Angeles World Affairs Council (LAWAC) Internship Program
Location: Los Angeles, California, United States
Cost: None
Acceptance Rate/cohort Size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: Semester-based; Spring and Summer sessions
Application Deadline: Summer session deadline: May 1
Eligibility: High school, undergraduate, and graduate students
The Los Angeles World Affairs Council (LAWAC) Internship Program involves supporting its public programs and day-to-day operations related to international affairs programming. You may assist with planning and running speaker events, preparing research materials for upcoming discussions, and coordinating logistics before and during programs. Depending on the role, your work can also include drafting outreach materials, managing event communications, or supporting membership and development activities. You are expected to attend at least one Council event per quarter and assist staff during live programming. The program follows a hybrid structure, with regular time spent at the Downtown Los Angeles office in addition to remote work. Responsibilities differ by internship position and are shaped by current programming needs. The internship is unpaid and may be completed for academic credit.
15. Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations (PMI New York) Internship Programme
Location: New York
Acceptance Rate/cohort Size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: Up to 6 months; start date communicated upon selection
Application Deadline: Rolling; applications accepted year-round
Eligibility: Final-year undergraduate and graduate students; Indian citizens, OCI cardholders, and eligible foreign nationals
The Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations (PMI New York) Internship Programme places you under the close supervision of a designated domain expert. Your responsibilities may include researching multilateral policy issues, monitoring developments across UN forums, and drafting internal briefs or reports. The program includes an attachment to one of the Mission’s wings, where you observe and support its ongoing work. An orientation session introduces you to the Mission’s structure, functions, and coordination processes within the UN system. The internship follows a full-time, in-person format with standard working hours at the Mission’s premises.
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