Are you a student passionate about global policy, security, or international development? The CSIS Summer 2026 Internship offers a paid chance to work at one of the world’s top think tanks. Located in Washington, D.C., this program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies gives you real-world experience in shaping global decisions.
About CSIS and the Internship’s Value
The Center for Strategic and International Studies, or CSIS, started in 1962 as a nonprofit group. It is bipartisan and focuses on international security, economic growth, and policy solutions. Experts there tackle big issues like world conflicts and technology changes.
This internship puts you right in the middle of these talks. You meet top analysts and see how policies form. It stands out because it builds skills for careers in government, research, or global groups.
Internship Fields and Departments
CSIS has many areas to match your interests. You can pick from tracks like:
- Global Development
- Nuclear Policy and Security
- Strategic Technologies, including AI and cybersecurity
- Middle East Studies
- Americas Program, focused on Latin America
- Communications and External Relations
- Congressional and Government Affairs
Each one lets you dive into real policy work and current events.
What Interns Do
CSIS interns handle important tasks, not just office work. Your role depends on the department, but common duties include research, events, and communications.
Research and Analysis
You review books and articles on policy topics. You help write reports and briefs. You also support big projects on global issues.
Communications and Outreach
Draft posts for social media and newsletters. Help create digital content and manage websites. This builds your public speaking skills.
Events and Program Support
Plan conferences and meetings. Handle logistics and talk to guests. Write notes on what happens at these events.
Administrative Support
Coordinate team activities and daily tasks. This keeps programs running smoothly.
Some interns even publish their own research.
Benefits You Get
This internship pays well and helps your career.
Pay and Perks
Earn $17.50 to $20 per hour based on your school level. Work full-time or part-time in most cases.
Growth Opportunities
Join the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy for training. Learn policy analysis and leadership. Network with experts and leaders.
Long-Term Gains
It looks great on your resume. Gain skills for full-time jobs. Many past interns move into policy roles.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility Rules
You need to meet basic standards to join.
School Background
Current undergrads, grad students, or recent grads qualify. Study fields like international relations, political science, economics, global development, or tech policy. Keep good grades.
Key Skills
Show strong research and writing. Work well alone or in groups. Stay organized and handle multiple tasks.
Other Needs
Prove interest in world affairs. Some jobs want languages like Spanish or Arabic. Past experience helps but is not required.
Open to Everyone?
Applications come from anywhere: Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and more. But you must have U.S. work rights to get paid. Check visas if you live outside the U.S.
Perfect Fit for These People
Apply if you want a career in:
- Diplomacy or international relations
- Policy research and analysis
- Global security or development
- Solving world problems
- Early jobs at top groups
How Long and Where
Most spots last from late May to August 2026. Full-time is standard, with some part-time. Work in-person in Washington, D.C., with limited hybrid options.
How to Apply: Step by Step
Follow these steps for a strong application.
- Update your resume and write a cover letter for the program you want.
- Save both as one PDF file.
- Go to the CSIS careers site and submit.
- Apply soon. They review on a rolling basis.
Full applications only. Early ones have better odds. Visit careers.csis.org/opportunities/1766 to start. More info at careers.csis.org/internships.
Deadline to Watch
Submit by April 16, 2026. Do not wait, as spots fill fast. This CSIS Summer 2026 Internship can launch your path in global policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay for the CSIS Summer 2026 Internship?
Interns earn $17.50 to $20 per hour based on their school level. Most positions are full-time or part-time.
Who can apply for the CSIS Summer 2026 Internship?
Current undergrads, grad students, or recent grads in fields like international relations or political science qualify. You need strong research skills, good grades, and U.S. work rights.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is April 16, 2026, but applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Apply early as spots fill fast.
What kinds of tasks do CSIS interns do?
Interns handle research, write reports, support events, create communications content, and provide administrative help. Some even publish their own work.
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