Are you a current college or university student looking to shape the future of higher education? AAU offers a part-time, seasonal, paid internship program that operates during the fall, spring, and summer semesters, with applications accepted on a rolling basis for the upcoming academic year.
As an intern, you’ll have the opportunity to support AAU members and their mission of advancing teaching, research, and service by supporting the organization’s work in government relations and public policy, public opinion polling and survey research, and public affairs campaigns.
Currently accepting applications for internships for Fall 2024, Spring 2025, and Summer 2025.
Review AAU’s Internship Program Details to learn more about the program, the application process, timelines, and expectations.
For any questions or assistance, please contact us as [email protected].
Testimonials from previous AAU Interns
Leah Locascio – Fall 2022
“This organization has deepened my understanding of the American education system, shaped my career aspirations, and assisted my transition to make D.C. feel like home.”
Justin Ryan - Spring 2023
“The AAU internship is a fantastic DC based internship that provides vast knowledge on everything higher education. The internship also provides interns with an in person experience to understand how a productive organization operates and collaborates. This DC based internship will give interns a head start into their professional careers.”
Karly Scholz - Summer 2023
“Through working with many different teams as an intern with AAU, I gained a comprehensive understanding of the higher education industry. I was given the chance to work with the policy, communication, and survey research teams. I assisted in projects ranging from updating the website, gathering information on the connections between members of Congress and AAU schools, as well as long-term research projects with the survey research team. Exposure to all of these opportunities culminated in a positive and educational experience.”
Yuval Cohen - Fall 2023
“This DC-based internship at the Association of American Universities is a great way to get exposure into the world of higher education and policy. You get to work with very accomplished individuals who have different areas of expertise. There are opportunities to get involved in different areas, such as public opinion work, international affairs, immigration, student aid, science tech policy, government relations, and so much more. The internship has an overall focus on higher education and working with AAU institutions. The interns are provided with the chance to attend constituent meetings and even briefings on the Hill. I learned a lot about how things work in Washington, DC that I did not know before. I am very grateful for this opportunity because I was introduced to incredible people that are passionate about their work."
Andres Alvarez - Spring 2024
“The internship program at AAU is an excellent way for young students to experience the inner workings of advocacy work in the nation's capital. I was given opportunities to make mistakes, which was incredibly valuable in making the transition of using skills acquired in the classroom to being used in the workforce. I was able to work on impactful projects both within and outside the office which allowed me to make the most of my DC experience.”