Are you a student passionate about global policy, security, or international development? The CSIS Summer 2026 Internship offers a top paid opportunity to work at one of the world’s leading think tanks. Located in Washington, D.C., this program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) gives you hands-on experience in real-world policy issues.
What Is CSIS and Why Intern There?
CSIS is a nonprofit group started in 1962. It is bipartisan and focuses on international security, economic growth, and solutions to global problems. The organization has many experts who study big challenges around the world.
An internship here puts you right in the middle of important talks on global affairs. You will see how research shapes government decisions. CSIS is known as a key player in policy research.
Internship Areas and Programs
CSIS has several tracks to match your interests. You can choose from fields like:
- Global Development
- Nuclear Policy and Security
- Strategic Technologies, such as AI, cybersecurity, and new tech
- Middle East Studies
- Americas Program, with a focus on Latin America
- Communications and External Relations
- Congressional and Government Affairs
Each area lets you dive into specific policy topics and join active research teams.
What Interns Do Each Day
Interns at CSIS handle real work, not just office chores. Tasks change by department but often include:
Research Tasks
You might review books and articles on policy topics. Help write reports or briefs. Support big research projects on global issues.
Communications Work
Draft posts for social media or newsletters. Help create online content. Manage websites or communication tools.
Event Support
Plan policy events or conferences. Handle setup and guest coordination. Write notes on what happens at these events.
Other Duties
Some roles involve team coordination or daily operations.
Strong interns can even publish their own research, especially in areas like nuclear policy.
Benefits You Get
This internship pays well and builds your career.
Pay
You earn about $17.50 to $20 per hour, based on your school level.
Training and Growth
Join the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy for classes on leadership and policy. Meet experts and policymakers.
Career Boost
It looks great on your resume. Gain skills for jobs in global groups. Some interns move to full-time roles.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility Rules
You need to meet these basics for the CSIS Summer 2026 Internship:
School Background
Undergraduates, graduate students, or recent grads. Good grades in fields like international relations, political science, economics, global development, or tech policy.
Skills Needed
Strong research and analysis. Good writing and speaking. Work well alone or in groups. Stay organized with many tasks.
Other Points
Show interest in world affairs. Some jobs need languages like Spanish or Arabic. Past research or office work helps.
Open to people from anywhere, including Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. But you must have U.S. work permission to get paid. Check visa rules if needed.
Perfect Fit for These People
This suits:
- Students aiming for diplomacy or international relations jobs
- Future policy researchers
- Grads into security or development
- Anyone who wants to fix world problems
- Early workers at top policy groups
How Long and Where
Most are full-time from late May to August 2026. Some part-time spots exist. Work in-person in Washington, D.C., with some hybrid options by department.
How to Apply: Step by Step
Follow these steps:
- Update your resume and write a cover letter for the program you want.
- Put both into one PDF.
- Submit on the CSIS careers site.
- Apply soon. They review on a rolling basis.
Full applications only. Early ones have better odds. More info at CSIS internships page.
Application Deadline
April 16, 2026
This CSIS Summer 2026 Internship stands out for its pay, networks, and real impact on global policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay for the CSIS Summer 2026 Internship?
Interns earn about $17.50 to $20 per hour, based on their school level.
Who is eligible to apply for the CSIS internship?
Undergraduates, graduate students, or recent graduates with good grades in fields like international relations, political science, or economics qualify.
How do you apply for the CSIS Summer 2026 Internship?
Update your resume and cover letter, combine them into one PDF, and submit on the CSIS careers site. Apply early as they review on a rolling basis.
What is the application deadline for the CSIS Summer 2026 Internship?
The deadline is April 16, 2026.