| Hiring Organization: | United State |
| Industry: | International Affairs |
| Employment Type: | Government Internships |
| Date Posted: | 2025-04-25 |
| Closing Date: | 2025-09-30 |
| Job Location: | USA |
Are you a student or recent graduate eager to explore exciting opportunities that combine creativity, technology, and critical thinking? The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is offering a unique STEM/Arts Undergraduate Internship Program, designed to provide hands-on experience in research, development, and engineering activities that support national security missions.
This highly coveted internship is an excellent starting point for students looking to jumpstart their careers in STEM or STEAM fields. With a reputation for innovation and impact, this program offers unparalleled insight into the intersection of technology, problem-solving, and artistry.
Program Overview:
The STEM/Arts Undergraduate Internship Program at the CIA is a dynamic opportunity tailored for students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, or Arts.
Interns will work alongside full-time CIA officers on real-world projects that explore research and development, technical analysis, software/hardware engineering, and even artistic integration in technological fields. This hands-on experience provides foundational skills that can shape long-term career success.
What You’ll Do:
- Participate in R&D initiatives focusing on custom engineering solutions and cutting-edge technology integration.
- Gain experience with operating systems, communications technologies, mobile platforms, and computer networks.
- Leverage your creativity and technical knowledge to solve mission-critical challenges.
- Explore the art-technology nexus through skills like graphic design, costume fabrication, and multimedia design.
Whether you’re analyzing technology trends or assisting in innovative engineering projects, this internship helps bridge the gap between academic learning and professional application.
Requirements
If you’re passionate about technology, innovation, and creativity, this internship could be the perfect fit. However, candidates must meet specific criteria to qualify for this highly selective program.
Minimum Requirements:
- U.S. citizenship and age 18 or older (dual-national U.S. citizens are eligible).
- Completion of one semester/quarter of an undergraduate STEM/STEAM degree at an accredited institution.
- Availability for at least one 90-day internship tour (two tours are preferred).
- Full-time student status during enrollment and subsequent semesters.
- A minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
Skills Needed:
- Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking capabilities.
- Written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports and presentations.
- Organizational prowess and ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Majors Eligible for the Internship
The STEM/Arts Undergraduate Internship Program seeks students from a wide range of academic backgrounds. These include, but are not limited to, degrees in the following disciplines:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Computer Science and Data Analytics
- Engineering (all fields)
- Chemistry, Biology, and Physics
- Digital Communications and Graphic Design
- Apparel Design and Industrial Design
- Mathematics and Statistics
By offering this program, the CIA ensures that there’s space for both innovation-driven scientists and creative problem-solvers in national security work.
Salary and Benefits
While exact salary figures vary based on students’ educational standing and role specifics, CIA interns receive competitive pay and enriching experiences that make the opportunity worth the commitment. Key benefits include:
- Networking opportunities with some of the brightest minds in the field.
- Hands-on experience working on impactful projects vital to national security.
- Access to state-of-the-art resources and facilities.
Keep in mind that you must relocate to the Washington, D.C. area, and the CIA does not cover moving expenses.
How to Apply
Applying for the STEM/Arts Undergraduate Internship is straightforward but requires thought and preparation. Follow these steps for a seamless application process.
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Submit Your Initial Information:
- Begin by visiting the official CIA Careers Website.
- Express your interest in the position and choose up to four job opportunities on MyLINK, the CIA’s job submission portal.
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Prepare Necessary Documentation:
- Update your resume to highlight academic achievements, technical skills, and relevant coursework.
- Clearly specify your degree program, GPA, and completion of STEM/STEAM-related projects.
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Clear Hiring Requirements:
- Be prepared for a comprehensive hiring process that includes a background check, polygraph interview, and thorough medical and psychological exams.
- Ensure you are physically in the U.S. or its territories when submitting your application.
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Schedule Your Tours:
- Candidates are encouraged to participate in two 90-day tours to gain the most value from the program. However, one tour is the minimum requirement.
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Follow Up:
- After expressing interest, a CIA recruiter will contact selected candidates to discuss the next steps. Visit MyLINK’s FAQ page for additional information.
Why Choose This Internship?
This internship is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to national security while gaining valuable professional experience. Students will not only strengthen their technical aptitude but also explore how artistic innovation intersects with science and technology to create holistic solutions for real-world challenges.
At the CIA, interns don’t just work on projects—they gain skills, build networks, and influence initiatives that can make a global impact.
Take the Next Step
Are you ready to chart your career path with one of the most prestigious organizations in the nation? The CIA’s STEM/Arts Undergraduate Internship Program is your opportunity to make a difference and prepare for an exciting future.
