The Institute for Democratic Engagement and Accountability’s Summer Democracy Fellowship aims to open doors for students by providing them with first-hand experience in Washington D.C. Fellows will engage with policymakers and contribute to approaches that strengthen democracy for the future.
Fellows will get first-hand experience working in the federal government and develop a better understanding of federal law-making processes by working with either a U.S. Senator, Congressperson, or Committee. You will learn more about the process of implementing democratic innovations, help elevate them to wider audiences, and contribute to conversations about democracy. Duties will vary by internship but could include assisting staff with research, writing, and constituent service projects, daily office support tasks, preparing news clips and briefing memos, and attending Congressional hearings and meetings. This is a hands-on opportunity to gain real-world experience, build your network, and make a meaningful impact in politics.
The fellowship will cover airfare to and from DC and housing for the duration of their internship. Fellows will also be provided a biweekly stipend to help offset living expenses during the program.
IDEA will work to place fellows in Democratic, Republican, and nonpartisan offices. This will be a full-time internship. IDEA will support fellows with educational development opportunities, mentorship, and professional networking throughout their time in DC.
Fellows will be working in Washington, DC from the first week of June to the first week of August 2026. Commitment to the full duration of the program is mandatory for participation, though exact start/end dates may vary slightly based on the assigned Congressional office schedule. Graduating students are not eligible.
Applications are now closed for 2026. Any submissions submitted after December 17, 2026 will not be reviewed.
Decisions on the fellowship will be decided by early January 2026. IDEA may reach out to conduct interviews depending on interest level and the applicant pool. IDEA will then work with the fellows to help place them in their internships, prepare them for their time in DC, and outline expectations and responsibilities for the summer.
List any courses (with course numbers and titles) you have completed in political science, public affairs, sociology, research methods, or statistics.
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