Atlantic Council Internships 2025: Launch Your Global Policy Career in Washington, DC
Are you a student or recent graduate passionate about global affairs, diplomacy, and policy innovation? The Atlantic Council Internships 2025 offer one of the most prestigious and immersive experiences in international affairs. Whether you aspire to influence cybersecurity policy, energy security, or foreign relations, this Washington, DC–based think tank provides exceptional internship opportunities that prepare future leaders for real-world impact.
Why Intern at the Atlantic Council?
With its mission of “shaping the global future together,” the Atlantic Council stands at the forefront of developing policy responses to today’s most pressing global challenges. Through internships, the Council invests in young global professionals, preparing them to take on leadership roles in international policy, diplomacy, and research.
Interns work directly with one of the Council’s 16 dynamic programs and centers, gaining:
- Hands-on experience with global policy analysis
- Opportunities to contribute to research publications
- Access to exclusive career development workshops
- Exposure to high-profile international events and strategy sessions
Internship Pathways at the Atlantic Council
The Atlantic Council offers three distinct internship routes, tailored for different student needs:
1. Young Global Professionals (YGP) Program – Spring & Fall
A 19-week structured internship, YGP is the flagship initiative focused on nurturing the next generation of international policy experts. Available during Spring and Fall semesters, the program includes:
- Research and publication support
- Event coordination and stakeholder engagement
- Leadership development masterclasses
- Resume-building and interview training
- Networking opportunities with senior fellows and experts
Fall 2025 YGP Program Details:
- Dates: August 11 – December 19, 2025
- Application Deadline: June 8, 2025 (11:59 PM EST)
- Notification Period: July 7–18, 2025
- Hours: 30 hours/week (flexible around academic schedules)
- Location: Mostly in-person, Washington, DC (some remote options)
2. Summer Internships – Paid & Intensive
For students seeking a shorter, intensive internship, the Summer Program spans 10 weeks and offers paid opportunities. Interns engage in meaningful work such as:
- Data visualization
- Communications and content creation
- Strategic research on foreign policy, economics, and defense
Summer 2025 Internship Details:
- Dates: June 2 – August 1, 2025
- Application Deadline: March 12, 2025 (11:59 PM EST)
- Offers Announced: April 4 – 11, 2025
- Schedule: 30+ hours/week
3. Institutional Partnerships – Externally Funded Internships
The Council also partners with universities and organizations offering fully funded internships. Selected fellows benefit from:
- Housing, meals, and stipend (funded by home institution)
- Participation in a Council program or center
- Event and research responsibilities
Institutions must sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Council, ensuring all interns are compensated above DC’s minimum wage.
Universities and sponsors should contact:
recruitment@atlanticcouncil.org
Who Can Apply?
Atlantic Council internships are open to:
- Juniors, seniors, master’s students, and recent graduates
- International students with CPT/OPT or third-party visa sponsorship
- Applicants with strong research, writing, and digital communication skills
Not eligible: High school students, unpaid volunteers, or applicants based abroad without U.S. work authorization
Programs and Centers Hosting Interns
You can apply for internships across diverse focus areas such as:
- Cyber Statecraft Initiative
- GeoEconomics Center
- Adrienne Arsht Latin America Center
- Global Energy Center
- Transatlantic Security Initiative
- Middle East and Forward Defense Programs
View all current openings: Atlantic Council Internships Page
How to Apply
Applications are only accepted through the Council’s official application tracking system.
No email or paper submissions will be reviewed.
For details and deadlines, bookmark: https://www.atlanticcouncil.org
Final Words: Your Policy Career Starts Here
The Atlantic Council Internship 2025 is more than just a resume booster — it’s a career-launching platform for students and graduates who aspire to lead in global affairs. Whether you're interested in energy security, cyber diplomacy, or geopolitical strategy, this internship is your chance to shape the world — one policy at a time.
Apply early. Positions are highly competitive.