White House Internship Program 2026: Applications Open for Future Public Servants

Applications are now being accepted for the White House Internship Program 2026, offering undergraduate and graduate students, recent graduates, and eligible veterans the opportunity to gain valuable professional experience within various departments of the Executive Office of the President in Washington, D.C.

The program, scheduled for Spring 2026, aims to cultivate leadership skills and provide a pathway for young leaders interested in public service. Interns will contribute to the daily operations of the White House while participating in weekly events designed to foster collaboration and professional development.

Internship Details and Key Dates

Host Country: United States Location: White House, Washington, D.C. Duration: 3 Months Application Deadline: August 8, 2025 Internship Dates: January 21, 2026 – April 10, 2026

Responsibilities and Departments

Interns will be involved in a variety of tasks, including conducting research, managing inquiries, attending meetings, writing memos, and staffing events. Specific duties will vary depending on the assigned department.

Departments available for internship placements include:

Domestic Policy Council National Economic Council Office of Cabinet Affairs Office of Digital Strategy Office of Intergovernmental Affairs White House Office of Legislative Affairs White House Management Office White House Photo Office White House Visitors Office Office of Political Affairs Office of Presidential Advance Office of Presidential Correspondence Office of Presidential Personnel Office of Public Liaison Office of Speechwriting Office of the First Lady Office of the Staff Secretary Office of the Vice President Office of the Second Lady Office of Administration (within the Office of the VP) Office of Advance for the Vice President (within the Office of the VP) Office of Communications (within the Office of the VP and as a separate office) Office of Counsel to the Vice President (within the Office of the VP) Office of Intergovernmental Affairs (within the Office of the VP) Office of Domestic Policy (within the Office of the VP) Office of Correspondence (within the Office of the VP and as a separate office) The White House Press Office Office of the White House Counsel Office of Presidential Scheduling White House Travel Office Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the White House Internship Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a U.S. citizen Be at least 18 years old Meet one of the following criteria: Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program at a college, community college, or university (a two-to-four year institution) and have completed at least two semesters before the internship begins. Have graduated from an undergraduate or graduate degree program at a college, community college, or university (a two-to-four year institution) within two years before the internship program’s start date. Be a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces with a high school diploma (or equivalent) who served on active duty for any duration within the two years preceding the internship program’s start date. Be available Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Selection Criteria

The selection process emphasizes candidates who demonstrate:

A commitment to public service Demonstrated leadership in the community Strong leadership skills A commitment to the mission of the current administration.

Historical Context and the Value of Internships

The White House Internship Program, like many government internship initiatives, reflects a longstanding commitment to fostering the next generation of public servants. These programs have evolved significantly over time. Initially, internships were often informal and unpaid, serving primarily as a way for privileged individuals to gain experience. However, the modern internship landscape has shifted towards greater inclusivity and recognition of the value interns bring to organizations.

Dr. Eleanor Vance, a professor of Political Science at Georgetown University, emphasizes the critical role internships play in shaping future leaders. "Internships provide invaluable experiential learning opportunities that cannot be replicated in the classroom," she notes. "They allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, develop professional networks, and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of governance."

The Evolving Landscape of Educational Opportunities

The availability of internships and similar opportunities is increasingly crucial in today's competitive job market. With rising tuition costs and a growing emphasis on practical skills, students are actively seeking avenues to enhance their resumes and gain a competitive edge. "The demand for internships has surged in recent years, reflecting a broader trend towards skills-based hiring," states Mark Thompson, a career counselor at George Washington University. "Employers are looking for candidates who possess not only academic credentials but also demonstrable experience and a proven track record of success."

Application Process

Interested applicants must apply online through the White House Internship Program website. Acceptance notifications will begin on September 1, 2025.

Disclaimer Opportunities Corners is not affiliated with the White House Internship Program. This article provides informational details obtained from publicly available sources. Please refer to the official White House Internship Program website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.