CBCF Congressional Internship Program

Program Overview

Established in 1986, the CBCF Congressional Internship Program answered the call to help diversify our democracy by increasing the pool of talented public servants. This intensive nine-week summer program offers the opportunity for college students from across the nation to learn about the legislative process, leadership and careers in the policy making process.  Interns work in CBC member offices, attend professional development events, and participate in leadership development projects. The program prepares young people to become informed decision makers and influential leaders who shape our world. This program is offered every summer.

Benefits

• Interns will receive a $3,000 stipend
• Housing at a local university (all expenses covered)
• Interns may be eligible to receive academic credit at their college or university for participating in the program

Eligibility

• U.S. citizen or permit to work in the U.S.
• Currently or recently (within the past 12 months) enrolled in college full-time when applying for program
• Have a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
• Be at least a college sophomore by the internship start date
• Demonstrated interest in public service, governance, and policy-making process

Selection Process

Congressional Interns are selected based on the following criteria:

• Solid scholastic achievement
• Strong writing skills
• Community service contributions
• Evidence of leadership skills
• Quality of application and, in some instances, interview performance 

Application Materials

The completed online application must be submitted by midnight on March 28, 2013. The additional required materials must be postmarked no later than the deadline date. The following items will be requested through the online application:

1. A completed online application form
2. Answer the required short essay(s) given on the application
3. One (1) page resume listing extracurricular activities, honors, employment, community service and special skills
4. Three (3) letters of recommendation. We suggest at least one letter of recommendation be written by a dean, department chair, academic advisor, or employer. Letters must be on official letterhead, state the recommender's title, and provide contact information. Letters of recommendation must be submitted by the deadline for your application to be considered complete. Please follow the instructions found in the application. Hard copy letters sent to the organization as well as e-mails sent to the internship e-mail address will not be accepted.
5. A recent photograph suitable for publication; i.e., a cap and gown picture, or other professional quality and professionally dressed photograph

Additional Required Materials

All the above documents should be submitted through the online application. The following document should be mailed to the organization. We must receive this document before the deadline passes:

1. Official sealed transcripts from all institutions attended 

Official transcripts should be mailed to the following address:

Congressional Internship Program
Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc.
1720 Massachusetts Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20036

The selection is highly competitive. Applications are submitted to CBCF and reviewed by a CBCF selection committee. Finalists are selected and notified by CBCF.

Additional Information

For more information, please call (202) 263-2800 or send an e-mail to  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and type “Congressional Internship Program” in the subject line. You can also visit our FAQ page.