About the opportunity
The NASA STEM Gateway serves as the central platform for students, educators, and researchers to explore and apply for learning opportunities across NASA. Offerings span hands-on internships, graduate fellowships, pre-college and college STEM experiences, technical research projects, and educator development initiatives supporting NASA missions in aeronautics, space exploration, Earth science, and advanced engineering.
Funding and benefits
- Paid stipends and compensation provided for eligible internship and fellowship appointments
- Direct mentorship from NASA scientists, engineers, and mission specialists
- Hands-on technical and research experience working on active spaceflight, aeronautics, and computing projects
- Access to state-of-the-art NASA research facilities, laboratories, and specialized software tools
- Professional development seminars, networking events, and career exploration sessions
Who can apply?
- Eligible academic levels range from K-12 students and undergraduate students to graduate (Master's and Doctoral), postdoctoral researchers, and educators
- Citizenship requirements vary by opportunity, including U.S. Citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR), and applicants from specified partner countries depending on the project
- Students must be enrolled or accepted in an accredited educational program relevant to the specific project requirements
- Academic disciplines encompass engineering, computer science, physical sciences, biological sciences, mathematics, education, and related technical or administrative fields
Required documents
- Completed online application profile via NASA STEM Gateway
- Current official or unofficial academic transcripts
- Resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
- Statement of work availability and course schedule (for semester-based internships)
- Letters of recommendation or references (where specified by specific fellowship or internship listings)
When to apply
- Spring 2027 internship registration opens: June 12, 2026
- Application deadline for primary session openings: September 14, 2026
- Special event deadlines vary by activity (e.g., virtual event registration ending September 8, 2026)
- Opportunities are posted on a recurring seasonal cycle throughout the academic year
How to apply
- Create an account or sign in to the NASA STEM Gateway Learner Community platform
- Complete the applicant profile and upload required educational documentation
- Use the opportunity search and filter tools to locate projects matching your academic level, area of interest, and citizenship status
- Submit applications directly to selected internship, fellowship, or STEM engagement listings before the stated closing dates
Additional information
- Opportunity formats include on-site, hybrid, and fully virtual arrangements across NASA centers including Marshall Space Flight Center, Kennedy Space Center, and Armstrong Flight Research Center
- A self-assessment quiz is available on the platform to generate customized opportunity recommendations based on user interests
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 and educators in engineering, computer science, physical/biological sciences, or mathematics.
- Applicants across various academic levels, including undergraduate, Master's, and Doctoral.
- Those interested in direct mentorship from NASA scientists and engineers.
What should you think carefully about?
- Citizenship requirements vary by specific project; applicants should use the filter tools to find matching roles.
- Opportunities range from on-site, hybrid, and fully virtual formats.
- Deadlines for specific events and internships vary by activity.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
Whether you are looking for a short-term internship, a funded graduate fellowship, or professional development as an educator, this gateway provides a direct path to working on active spaceflight and aeronautics projects.
Our take
Students and researchers across all STEM levels—from K-12 to postdoctoral—should apply to explore NASA's active missions.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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