Launch Your Career in Public Service
Federal Internships Overview
Interning with a federal agency enables students to gain more insight into possible careers in the public sector and provides great professional experience, which could result in post-graduate employment. Securing a federal internship isn’t easy, but it can help a student gain valuable experience.
Why Intern with a Federal Agency?
- Get real-world experience in government
- Test drive a career in public service
- Build a network of federal professionals
- Stand out to future employers
- Possibly land a full-time offer after graduation
Tip: Start planning 6–12 months early—some internships need a security clearance
When to Apply
- Most agencies hire for summer internships and recruit in September
- Some agencies (like the Government Accountability Office) hire interns year-round
- Always keep an eye on or sign up for email alerts
Tips for Applying to a Federal Agency
- Federal Resume Needed when applying for a position directly listed on USA Jobs - It’s different from your usual resume. Students can build a federal resume in USA Jobs:
- Follow Instructions – If instructions are not followed, your application won't even be seen
- Monitor USAJobs
- Agencies, such as the FBI, will advertise internship and job opportunities on their internal website.
- Have someone review your application materials. The SECD offers career advising and a where you can upload a resume and cover letter and receive feedback within 3-4 days.
Common Application Mistakes
- Missing transcripts (an unofficial transcript is acceptable at most agencies. Download your unofficial transcript in UAccess)
- Missing proof of enrollment (submit an unofficial transcript. submit a letter drafted by the UA Registrar, or provide a copy of your class registration)
- Leaving narrative questions blank – “See resume†isn’t acceptable on federal applications
Resources
- – Federal agencies primarily hire interns on USA Jobs. Create a USA Jobs account. Students are encouraged to create a USAJobs account early (even before there is a posting you would like to apply for).
- - provides a comprehensive overview of applying for a federal agency and insight into the federal hiring process.
Pathways Programs
You can find internships with the following federal agencies through the Pathways Program
- U.S. Attorney's Office - Department of Justice
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms
- DEA
- U.S. Department of State
- U.S. Department of State - Western Passport Center
- Office of International Affairs - U.S. Coast Guard
- Office of International Affairs - Department of Justice
- Bureau of Prisons
Apply to the Pathways Program online through
Federal Agencies
Visit the following agencies to learn more about internship programs
Federal Law Enforcement Agencies:
- Homeland Security Investigations
- U.S. Marshals
- Defense Intelligence Agency -
- FBI -
Legislative Branch Internships:
- U.S. Government Accountability Office
- Government Printing Office -
- Congressional Budget Office (recruits applicants in early- Jan) -
Executive Branch Internships:
- Central Intelligence Agency -
- U.S. Trade Representative -
- U.S. Dept of Agriculture -
- U.S. Dept of Commerce-
- U.S. Dept of State-
- U.S. Dept of Education-
- U.S. Dept of Energy -
- U.S. Dept of Housing and Urban Development -
- U.S. Department of Treasury -
Judicial Branch Internship:
Administrative Office of the United States Courts -