Congressional Research Service (CRS) volunteer internships give students and professionals an opportunity to observe and learn about the legislative process at the national level. Volunteer internships are highly competitive and offered on an as-needed basis as determined by CRS divisions and offices. Internships can last from three months to one year; hours are determined by the needs of CRS and the applicant.

CRS aligns intern placement with the intern’s academic interests or professional goals. Volunteer interns typically assist professional staff in performing research in response to public policy-related issues and questions. Through this work, volunteer interns have an opportunity to participate in the legislative process and to develop valuable research skills in a public policy setting.

Eligibility

Although most volunteer interns are graduate or law students, undergraduate students with exceptional academic talent are also welcome to apply. Applicants must be U.S. citizens.

Recruitment and Application Procedures

CRS accepts applications on an ongoing basis; there are no application deadlines. A formal application package, consisting of a cover letter, resumé and a completed CRS volunteer questionnaire, should be submitted to BaShira Malik at bmalik@crs.loc.gov.

More information

To learn more about the Volunteer Internship Program, contact BaShira Malik at bmalik@crs.loc.gov.

Note: For volunteer internships specifically in the American Law Division see the Law Clerk Program.