The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) internships offer an exceptional opportunity for students and recent graduates who are passionate about international affairs, global policy, and diplomacy. CFR is one of the most respected nonpartisan think tanks in the world, dedicated to deepening the understanding of foreign policy and international relations.
An internship at CFR not only provides hands-on experience in the field but also places interns in an intellectually rich environment alongside leading experts, scholars, and policymakers.
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Internship Locations and Terms
CFR internships are available during the spring, summer, and fall terms, and are offered in both New York City and Washington, D.C. The organization hosts a range of departments, including research, editorial, digital media, communications, global health, international economics, and more. This variety ensures that students from diverse academic backgrounds—whether in political science, economics, journalism, public health, or international studies—can find roles that align with their interests and strengths.
Meaningful Responsibilities and Learning
Interns at CFR play a meaningful role in day-to-day operations. Depending on the department, they may assist with research projects, compile briefings, edit reports, attend meetings, or contribute to CFR publications such as Foreign Affairs. In research departments, interns often work closely with fellows, helping to collect data, review global developments, and support the development of policy analysis. This exposure to expert-level research and real-time analysis gives interns an authentic feel for the world of international policy and think tank work.
Access to High-Level Events and Experts
One of the most valuable aspects of a CFR internship is the access it provides to a powerful network. Interns are encouraged to attend numerous on-site events, including roundtable discussions, lectures, and policy forums. These events often feature heads of state, diplomats, ambassadors, business leaders, and global thinkers. Interns not only observe but may also engage with these professionals, gaining first-hand insights into global challenges and the workings of high-level diplomacy and policymaking.
Professional Culture and Work Environment
CFR fosters a professional culture that emphasizes learning, initiative, and collaboration. Interns are treated with respect and encouraged to contribute meaningfully, making the experience more than just an administrative role—it becomes a developmental stepping stone. Interns leave with sharpened research skills, a broader understanding of international issues, and a deeper sense of how foreign policy decisions are made and communicated.
Mentorship and Career Development
The internship program also includes mentorship and career development support. Staff members offer guidance on professional goals, and the CFR Human Resources team often organizes workshops and networking opportunities to help interns plan their next steps. Many former interns have gone on to successful careers in government, nonprofit organizations, academia, international institutions, journalism, and private sector roles that intersect with global policy.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Eligibility for a CFR internship generally requires that applicants be at least a junior in college or a graduate student. Candidates are expected to demonstrate strong writing, research, and communication skills. Knowledge of foreign affairs, current events, and international institutions is a plus, and depending on the department, language skills or technical expertise may be beneficial. Both paid and unpaid positions are offered, with many internships structured to comply with college credit requirements.
A Launchpad for Global Careers
Interning at the Council on Foreign Relations can be a transformative experience. It’s an opportunity to be at the heart of discussions that shape U.S. foreign policy and global strategy. For intellectually curious, globally minded students motivated by complex challenges, CFR provides a platform not just to observe but to learn, contribute, and grow.
Closing Remarks
In a world where understanding international dynamics is more crucial than ever, a CFR internship offers more than résumé value—it offers perspective. It challenges interns to think critically, work diligently, and embrace complexity. Whether one aspires to become a diplomat, policy analyst, journalist, or academic, CFR is a launchpad where the pursuit of global understanding meets practical experience.
Official Website
Read more about it on the official website.