About the opportunity
The Paul A. Volcker Government Internship Award provides a $3,000 stipend to students and recent graduates who are pursuing an internship or fellowship in government. Applications open three times a year, corresponding with the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Priority is given to applicants who have historically faced barriers to accessing internships or paid internship opportunities, including first-generation students, nontraditional students, and Pell Grant recipients. The award aims to help students overcome financial barriers and explore careers in local, state, and federal government by supporting participation in public sector internships.
Funding and benefits
- $3,000 stipend
Who can apply?
- Enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program; junior, senior or graduated within the last two years
- Secured a government internship at a local, state, or federal government office or agency
- Part-time fall and spring internships must be at least 10 hours per week, lasting a minimum of 12 weeks
- Summer internships must be at least 15 hours per week and run for at least 8 weeks
Required documents
- Professional Experience (resume)
- Three short answer prompts (100-300 words max)
- Internship Information
- Signed acknowledgement letter (upon selection)
- Completed W9 form (upon selection)
- Headshot and biography for promotional purposes (upon selection)
When to apply
- Summer applications open February 23, 2026 and close April 17, 2026
- Fall applications open June 1, 2026 and close September 14, 2026
- Spring applications open October 16, 2026 and close November 20, 2026
How to apply
- Fill out the online application form
- Submit applicant information, resume, three short answer responses, and internship details
- Participate in a virtual check-in with the semester's awardee cohort and complete an exit survey if selected
Additional information
- Internships at a university or a non-profit organization are not eligible for this award.
- Priority is given to applicants who have historically faced barriers to accessing internships or paid internship opportunities, including first-generation students, nontraditional students, and Pell Grant recipients.
- Applicants can expect to hear back approximately 3 weeks post-deadline.
- Awardees will receive funds no longer than one month after decisions are announced.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Students or recent graduates within two years of completion
- Individuals currently secured in a government internship
- Applicants from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in public sector internships
What should you think carefully about?
- Must meet specific minimum weekly hour requirements for the internship
- Non-profit or university-based internships are ineligible
- Requires participation in a virtual cohort check-in and an exit survey
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This award is an excellent vehicle for students aiming to gain practical experience in local, state, or federal government while mitigating the financial strain often associated with unpaid or low-paid public sector roles. It is particularly well-suited for those looking to build a career in public service who need financial support to bridge the gap during their internship term.
Our take
Students and recent graduates already committed to a government internship should apply, especially those who identify as first-generation or nontraditional students, as they are prioritized for this funding.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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