The White House Internship Program is a public service leadership initiative that offers young leaders across the U.S. a unique opportunity to gain professional experience and develop leadership skills within the Executive Office of the President. Interns support daily operations through tasks like research, writing memos, managing inquiries, attending meetings, and staffing events
The White House Internship program includes professional development sessions, speaker series, and volunteer projects, all designed to build a sense of community and prepare participants for future roles in public service. The Fall 2025 session runs from September 17 to December 12, 2025. Applications open on May 14, 2025, and close on June 4, 2025.
University/Institutions
- Hosted By: White House
- Host Country: USA
- Location: White House
- Program: Internship
- Internship Duration: 3 Months
- Dates: Sept to Dec 2025 (Fall)
Study Areas
Interns are placed in departments aligning with their interests and expertise, such as:
- Domestic Policy Council
- National Economic Council
- The Office of Cabinet Affairs
- The Office of Digital Strategy
- The Office of Intergovernmental Affairs
- The 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
- Sources and related content
The White House Internship Benefits
- Hands-on experience in public service and policy-making.
- Professional development through workshops and speaker series.
- Networking opportunities with government officials and fellow interns.
- Exposure to the operations of the Executive Office of the President.
Benefits Not Included
- The internship is unpaid.
- Housing is not provided; interns must arrange their own accommodations.
- Transportation and relocation expenses are not covered.
Eligibilities for The White House Internship
Applicants must:
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must meet at least one of the following:
- Enrolled in an undergraduate/graduate program and completed two semesters before internship starts.
- Graduated within the past two years from a two- or four-year institution.
- U.S. military veteran with a high school diploma (or equivalent), served on active duty within the last two years.
- Subject to drug testing and security screening.
Important info
- Interns are expected to work Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Exceptions can be made for class or program requirements.
- Interns must work at least 4.5 days per week to be considered full-time.
- For example, leaving at 1:00 p.m. one day per week may be allowed.
Selection Criteria
- Highly competitive selection process.
- Applications should highlight qualifications, character, and public service commitment.
- Selection is based on:
- Dedication to public service.
- Proven leadership in the community.
- Alignment with the mission of the administration.
Required Documents
- Current resume.
- Short personal essays.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Academic transcripts (official or unofficial).
The White House Internship Application Process
- Complete the online application on the official White House website.
- Upload your resume and personal essays.
- Submit two letters of recommendation through the application portal.
- Provide academic transcripts.
- Ensure all materials are submitted before the application deadline.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start the application process early to gather all necessary documents.
- Tailor your resume and essays to highlight relevant experiences and skills.
- Choose recommenders who can speak to your qualifications and commitment to public service.
- Proofread all materials for clarity and accuracy.
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of the White House Internship Program’s mission and values
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
- International students are not eligible for this program.
- However, for general context, monthly living expenses in Washington, D.C. can include:
- Rent: $1,200–$2,000 (shared or studio)
- Food: $300–$600
- Transportation: $80–$150
- Utilities and Internet: $100–$200
- Miscellaneous/personal expenses: $200–$400
Why Choose This Opportunity?
Participating in the White House Internship Program allows you to contribute to the nation’s governance while developing professional skills in a prestigious environment. The experience offers unparalleled insight into the workings of the federal government and provides a platform to engage with policymakers and public servants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the internship paid?
A1: No, the White House Internship Program is unpaid.
Q2: Are non-U.S. citizens eligible to apply?
A2: No, applicants must be U.S. citizens.
Q3: Is housing provided?
A3: No, interns are responsible for arranging their own housing.
Q4: Can I apply if I have recently graduated?
A4: Yes, if you have graduated within the past two years.
Q5: What are the working hours?
A5: Interns are expected to work Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Official Link for More Details and Application
For more information and to apply, please visit the official White House Internship Program website:
🔗 whitehouse.gov/internships
