Applying for government internships requires planning. Candidates should start early, track deadlines, and allow time for security clearance processing.
Find Internship Opportunities
GoGovernment, a guide from the Partnership for Public Service, offers specialized resources and programming to help job seekers explore government opportunities, apply to internships and full-time positions, and navigate the federal and state government hiring process from start to finish.
Prepare for Interviews
The Schaeffer Fellows Interview Guide helps candidates prepare for interviews with government offices and agencies. Informed by program alumni and internship supervisors, it offers practical guidance on what to expect and how to present oneself with confidence and professionalism.
Navigate the Security Clearance Process
Once hired, candidates for most internship positions must complete Live Scan/fingerprinting. Candidates should allow sufficient time for this step and follow the host office’s directions.
Even when a background check or security clearance is required, the internship must begin no later than early June to ensure ten weeks are completed before the fall semester. Please note: the U.S. State Department clearance process may take as long as 150 days or more (~4-5 months). Learn more at USAJobs.gov.
A pending security clearance does not automatically disqualify applicants. However, to be selected as a Schaeffer Fellow, candidates must have an active security clearance (if required for the internship) and have a confirmed internship offer. Candidates should stay in close contact with Schaeffer Fellows program staff throughout the process.
2026 Schaeffer Fellow Internships
Internships vary each summer based on candidates’ independent internship search and program relationships with different Partner Offices. The 2026 USC Schaeffer Fellows completed ten-week internships with the following offices:
- California Natural Resources Agency, Office of Exposition Park Management [Partner Office]
- Office of Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo [Partner Office]
- Office of Los Angeles Public Defender [Partner Office]
- Office of Manhattan District Attorney
- Office of U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (WA) – District Office
- Office of U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (CA) [Partner Office]
- U.S. Space Force, SpaceWERX [Partner Office]
- White House Office of Management & Budget