15 Political Science Internships for High School Students in California
If you’re a high school student interested in politics, political science, or a related field, gaining practical experience with an internship can be a solid place to start. Internships allow you to strengthen your resume, explore potential careers, and build essential skills that can set you apart when applying to college or future jobs. For students with an interest in politics, policy, or law, these internships are especially valuable, offering insight into how government and advocacy organizations operate. Whether you’re looking to understand grassroots campaigning, explore legislative work, or study public policy up close, a political internship can help you get a leg up in this field.
Why California for a political science internship?
As one of the largest and most diverse states in the country, it plays a major role in national politics, public policy, and social advocacy. Sacramento serves as the state’s political hub and is home to the Governor’s Office, state agencies, and the California State Legislature, which frequently offer internships and youth programs. Major cities such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco also host a wide range of nonprofits, public interest organizations, advocacy groups, and municipal government offices where students can gain experience in law, policymaking, civic engagement, or public administration.
To help you get started, we’ve curated this list of the 15 best political science internships for high school students in California, including both local placements and a few standout virtual opportunities. These internships offer a range of opportunities, from working directly in government offices to participating in civic engagement programs. Each of these will help you develop your professional skills, network with mentors, and understand how political systems really work.
1. USC Center for the Political Future – High School Internship Program
Location: Los Angeles, California
Cost/Stipend: None
Dates: June 1 – August 1
Application Deadline: Typically late May, based on past years
Eligibility: High school students (graduating seniors not eligible) with a minimum 3.0 GPA
The University of Southern California’s Center for the Political Future offers a high school internship designed for students interested in political research and analysis. During this two-month program, you’ll conduct a critical examination of the Center’s annual ‘Climate Forward Conference,’ watching recordings of the event and producing detailed written analyses on key discussions. You will also complete various assignments throughout the summer that build research and communication skills. This program is a great opportunity for students interested in the intersection of politics, climate policy, and public affairs.
2. Ladder Internships
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies with the program type
Dates: 8-week programs with multiple cohorts throughout the year
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: Open to all high school students (including undergraduates and gap-year students); must be able to commit 10–20 hours per week
Ladder Internships connects high school students to startups and organizations across a wide range of industries, including dedicated tracks in political consulting, public policy research, and civic technology. You’ll be placed on a real-world project that aligns with your interests, working under the guidance of a company manager while receiving weekly mentorship from a dedicated Ladder Coach. This dual support system ensures you build both technical and professional skills throughout your internship. The program concludes with a formal presentation, giving you a chance to showcase your work and strengthen your portfolio. The virtual structure and flexible hours make this a particularly accessible option for California students looking to gain experience in politics or related fields while receiving mentorship.
3. California Innocence Project (CIP) Internships
Location: California Western School of Law, San Diego, California
Cost/Stipend: None
Dates: Spring, Summer, and Fall sessions (exact dates vary)
Application Deadlines: March 1 (Summer) | July 1 (Fall) | November 1 (Spring)
Eligibility: Open to high school, college, law, and post-bar students
CIP offers internships that provide insight into and experience in criminal justice reform and post-conviction law. As an intern, you’ll contribute to casework on wrongful convictions by assisting with legal research, preparing case files, and helping maintain communication with clients and experts. You will receive thorough in-house training on the legal and factual components of innocence claims, then commit 15–35 hours a week to support active cases. This program places you directly with experienced attorneys and case managers working to overturn wrongful convictions, offering a perspective on how legal systems can be challenged and improved.
4. Judicial Intern Opportunity Program (JIOP) – American Bar Association
Location: Multiple placements across California
Cost/Stipend: No cost. $2,000 stipend
Dates: 6-week program, May – June
Application Deadline: January 10
Eligibility: Open to all high school students interested in the legal field
The American Bar Association’s Judicial Intern Opportunity Program (JIOP) places students in internships with federal and state judges, offering exposure to the inner workings of courtrooms and judicial chambers. As an intern, you’ll observe court proceedings, assist with legal research, and help prepare memos or briefs, all under the guidance of experienced judges and their clerks. This program is especially focused on providing opportunities for students from underrepresented communities who are considering a career in law. Beyond technical skills, you’ll gain a deep understanding of judicial processes and the role of the courts in shaping public policy
5. San Diego County District Attorney’s Student Worker Program
Location: Various District Attorney offices across San Diego County
Cost/Stipend: No cost; paid. Starting at $16.50/hour, based on education level
Dates: Part-time, ongoing during the academic year (up to 20 hours/week)
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted until the positions are filled
Eligibility: Full-time students at a local high school, vocational program, or accredited college/university; must be at least 18 years old and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA
The San Diego County District Attorney’s Student Worker Program offers paid, part-time positions that allow students to explore the daily operations of the criminal justice system. As a student worker, you’ll handle clerical responsibilities such as data entry, document scanning, and organizing case files, critical tasks that keep the DA’s office running smoothly. You’ll work up to 20 hours a week during business hours, gaining exposure to how criminal cases are processed and managed. This program provides a close look at the legal environment and the flow of prosecutorial work, making it a good stepping stone for students considering careers in law or public service.
6. Dorsee Productions Political Internship
Location: Rancho Santa Fe, California (San Diego County)
Cost/Stipend: None
Dates: Rolling start with flexible scheduling
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted till seats are filled
Eligibility: High school students interested in politics, public affairs, or nonprofit development
Dorsee Productions offers high school students an internship opportunity centered on political campaigns and nonprofit initiatives. As an intern, you’ll assist with events and development projects for federal, state, and local campaigns, as well as organizations like the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial. You’ll gain exposure to the fundraising and strategic side of politics, support event planning efforts, and connect with a range of individuals involved in the political process. This internship provides experience in how campaigns and nonprofits build influence and engage communities, making it a practical choice for students eager to explore political operations in a real-world setting. Interested applicants can apply directly by sending a resume and references to Karolyn Dorsee.
7. Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) High School Internship
Location: In-person (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) and remote options available
Cost/Stipend: Both paid and unpaid opportunities are offered, depending on placement
Dates: February – May (Spring), June – August (Summer), September – December (Fall)
Application Deadline: July 23 for the summer session
Eligibility: High school students with strong writing and research skills
The FPRI High School Internship provides an introduction to foreign policy, national security, and international affairs. As an intern, you’ll collaborate with leading scholars and analysts on issues such as diplomacy, global conflicts, and security policy, often drafting policy briefs and conducting deep research. The program includes weekly seminars with foreign policy experts, mentorship, and opportunities to publish your work on FPRI’s Intern Corner. With remote placements available, this internship is a good choice for California students looking to explore international relations from home while building policy analysis skills.
8. Pasquines High School Internship
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: None
Dates: Internship durations are varied, available year-round, with flexible scheduling
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Open to high school students interested in journalism, public policy, or political analysis
Pasquines offers a flexible, remote internship program that lets high school students dive into the political and policy issues that impact U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. As an intern, you’ll research and write articles on governance, elections, and civic affairs, building skills in writing, editing, and digital publishing. The program encourages independent political analysis and provides a chance to collaborate with peers and professionals passionate about government reporting. While unpaid, this internship can often be applied toward school credit and is worth considering for California students looking to expand their political writing portfolios.
9. Institute for Cultural Relations Policy (ICRP) Virtual Internship
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: None
Dates: Flexible; start dates proposed by applicants, with rolling deadlines every two months from February 15 to December 15
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Open to high school and university students with strong communication skills
The ICRP Virtual Internship offers high school students the chance to explore international relations, human rights, and global policy in a cross-cultural setting. You’ll work on independent research projects, contribute to ICRP’s monthly e-journal, and help coordinate virtual events and conferences that feature experts from around the world. You will also participate in weekly webinars and small group discussions to deepen your understanding of global issues. Highlights include the opportunity to interview diplomats and present your work at international policy forums.
10. Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS) Internship
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: None
Dates: September – May (academic year)
Application Deadline: July 31
Eligibility: U.S. students enrolled in higher education (college, university, or equivalent); typically for post-secondary students, but valuable for advanced high school graduates planning early college dual enrollment
The Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS) Internship, managed by the U.S. Department of State, connects students with federal agencies such as NASA, USAID, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Justice. Through this remote program, you’ll dedicate roughly 10 hours per week to projects ranging from data analysis and policy research to communications and digital strategy. Each intern is paired with a federal mentor who offers guidance and support. While VSFS does not provide a stipend, it gives participants the chance to work directly on federal initiatives, build professional networks in public service, and potentially earn academic credit.
11. USC CPF & Wrigley Institute High School Internship
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: None
Dates: June 1 – August 1
Application Deadline: May 19
Eligibility: High school students (graduating seniors not eligible) with a minimum 3.5 GPA
Offered by the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future in partnership with the USC Wrigley Institute, this summer internship focuses on the intersection of politics and environmental policy. Over two months, you’ll complete two major research projects: a legislative policy memo and a legislative process analysis on a bill of your choice related to sustainability or environmental legislation, whether it’s local, state, or federal. You will participate in mandatory online check-ins and receive personalized feedback on your writing. Those who complete all requirements can get one of their assignments published online, and will be recognized as a “Summer Research Intern for the USC Center for the Political Future and the USC Wrigley Institute.”
12. California State Assembly District Office Internship Program
Location: Local Assembly district offices throughout California
Cost/Stipend: None; volunteer position (some schools offer credit)
Dates: Flexible, ongoing throughout the year based on office needs
Application Deadline: Rolling; apply directly to your local Assemblymember’s office
Eligibility: High school or college students currently enrolled in school programs
The California State Assembly District Office Internship Program gives high school students insight into how local offices support constituents and carry out the work of state government. As an intern, you’ll assist with community outreach, help organize civic events, support local nonprofits, maintain databases, and interact with residents on issues that matter to the district. You will also gain practical experience staffing the office, preparing materials for the Assembly member, and learning about legislative initiatives. Many senior policy staff and lawmakers started their careers this way, making it a solid option if you’re interested in public service or state politics. Although unpaid, this internship can often be used for school credit and is a great way to build networks and see California’s democratic process up close.
13. Washington State House of Representatives Page Program
Location: Olympia, Washington, and remote options
Cost/Stipend: No cost; students receive a stipend of $65 per day if they provide a Social Security card
Dates: Varies by legislative session
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Open to high school students in Washington State aged 14–16
The Washington State House of Representatives Page Program gives students a hands-on look at how laws are crafted and debated at the state level. As a page, you’ll assist House members and staff by delivering messages, distributing documents, working on the chamber floor, and carrying flags during session openings. You’ll also participate in civic education programs designed to deepen your understanding of legislative procedures and public service. Beyond logistical support, the program emphasizes leadership, communication, and civic engagement, helping you build skills that are essential for a future in politics or government.
14. PHC Group High School Summer Program
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Free
Dates: Varies by position and project timeline
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Open to high school juniors and seniors
The PHC Group High School Summer Program combines elements of public health, community engagement, and digital marketing in a hands-on internship designed for motivated high school students. You’ll work on current client-based projects, conducting market research, developing social media strategies, and creating posts that drive community awareness around health topics. Under the guidance of a Public Health Director, you’ll analyze social media trends, monitor engagement, compile data reports, and integrate client feedback. The program also ensures you become proficient in Microsoft Office tools, a key asset for any professional field.
15. Pathways Internship Program – U.S. Department of State & Federal Agencies
Location: Various locations across the U.S. with remote options available
Cost/Stipend: Paid; stipend varies by agency, position, and education level
Dates: Flexible; depends on agency session and position type
Application Deadline: Year-round; positions posted individually on USAJobs
Eligibility: U.S. citizens enrolled in educational institutions (from high school through graduate school)
The Pathways Internship Program is a federal initiative offering students paid opportunities to explore careers across agencies like NASA, the CDC, and the Department of Transportation. There are two tracks: the Internship Experience Program (IEP), which provides non-temporary placements aligned with your academic timeline and offers federal benefits, and the Internship Temporary Program (ITEP), which is more short-term. Both paths can include options to convert into permanent federal positions after successful completion. Interns gain experience working directly on government initiatives, develop professional skills, and build networks in public service. With placements posted on USAJobs year-round, this program gives motivated high school students a practical pathway into politics, public policy, or broader government careers.
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