Early Careers
Internships (Pathways)
Your internship may be part-time or full-time, paid or unpaid. Internships may also be seasonal, temporary or longer-term.
Your internship work can relate to your academic or career goals and field of study.
Each agency that participates in this program will sign an agreement with you outlining expectations.
The internship may lead to a permanent, competitive service job if you meet the program requirements and the needs of the hiring agency.
You must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment at least part-time in school or a qualifying career or technical educational program.
Explore federal internship opportunities for current students, recent graduates and other eligible applicants. Search for internships now: Early Careers: Internships Opens in a new window
Questions about Early Careers: Internships or other early career programs? Email earlycareers@opm.gov. For specific job announcement questions, use the agency contact listed on the job announcement.
You can also find answers to frequently asked questions about the Pathways program Opens in a new window and frequently asked questions about federal internships Opens in a new window.
Early Careers: Internships
Explore federal internship opportunities for current students, recent graduates, and other eligible applicants.
Entry-level opportunities
The federal government offers a wide range of entry-level jobs, and you don't need years of experience to get started. Whether you recently graduated from high school, a trade or vocational program or a college or university, there are opportunities designed for you.
Jobs span nearly every field, including technology, healthcare, law enforcement, environmental science, finance and skilled trades. Many jobs are permanent, full-time roles with competitive pay, health benefits and room to grow.
The federal pay system starts at entry-level grades that match your education and experience, so you can begin your career at the right level and advance from there.
You must read the This job is open to section of the job announcement to see if you're eligible for the job. If you fall into one of the hiring paths listed, you can apply for the job. Some federal jobs require a college degree, but many do not. The federal government hires people with a wide range of education, skills and experience. If you have a high school diploma or three months of general work experience, you can generally qualify for entry-level jobs between GS-1 and GS-4. Read the qualifications in the job announcement to understand if the job has an education requirement. Learn more about understanding what grade or pay I am qualified for Opens in a new window.
Explore federal jobs open to the public at GS 1-9 or equivalent. Search for entry-level roles now: Early Careers: Entry-Level Opportunities Opens in a new window
Questions about entry-level opportunities or other early career programs? Email earlycareers@opm.gov. For specific job announcement questions, use the agency contact listed on the job announcement.
Semester of Service
The Semester of Service (SoS) Student Volunteer Program Opens in a new window is a short-term, unpaid volunteer opportunity; you can contribute to real federal government projects for one semester or term. This is an excellent way to serve the nation, build skills and explore public service. Volunteers dedicate between eight and 20 hours per week and may earn academic credit if your university or college offers it.
You are eligible if you:
- Are enrolled at least part-time at a qualifying post-secondary institution (community college, four-year university, graduate or professional school) or a trade, technical or vocational school.
- Are in good academic standing at your school.
- Can commit 8–20 hours per week for one semester or term.
Explore federal student volunteer opportunities through Semester of Service. Search for Semester of Service opportunities now: Early Careers: Semester of Service Opens in a new window
Questions about Early Careers: Semester of Service or other early career programs? Email earlycareers@opm.gov. For specific job announcement questions, use the agency contact listed on the job announcement.
CyberCorps Scholarship for Service (SFS)
The SFS program is for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a degree in cybersecurity. SFS provides scholarships for up to three years of support to eligible students in return for a commitment to work for the federal government, in a position related to cybersecurity, after graduation.
Learn more about the CyberCorps Scholarship for Service program Opens in a new window.
Early career programs from other agencies
The Department of Defense (DOD) offers internships, fellowships and apprenticeships for high school, undergraduate and graduate students.
Learn more about student opportunities with the DOD Opens in a new window.
The Department of State offers internships for undergraduate and graduate students. These internships may have you working in a foreign affairs environment at U.S. embassies or consulates around the world, bureaus in Washington D.C. or Department offices around the U.S.
Learn more about the Department of State internships Opens in a new window.
NASA offers several opportunities for high school and undergraduate students to work alongside with research scientists, engineers and other professionals.
Boren scholarships and fellowships are sponsored by the Defense Language and National Security Education Office Opens in a new window.
The Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science has two STEM-related internship programs for undergraduate students.
Learn more about the DOE community college internship Opens in a new window.
Learn more about the DOE undergraduate laboratory internship Opens in a new window.
This program offers job opportunities for high school and college students who are family members of a U.S. government employee assigned to an overseas post under Chief of Mission authority.
Learn more about the Overseas Seasonal Hire Program Opens in a new window.
Prepare to apply
Getting started is easier than you think. Set up your profile, get noticed by recruiters, and never miss an opportunity that's right for you.
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Step 1
Create a USAJOBS profile
Learn more about creating a USAJOBS profile. Opens in a new window -
Step 2
Make resume searchable
Learn more about making a resume searchable. Opens in a new window -
Step 3
Join the Early Career Talent Network
Learn more about the Early Career Talent Network. Opens in a new window -
Step 4
Set up a job alert
Learn more about setting up a job alert. Opens in a new window
How to apply
Here's how most federal jobs are filled and what you can expect at each step.
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Step 1
Find a job
Learn more about finding a job. Opens in a new window -
Step 2
Check if you can apply
Learn more about checking if you can apply. Opens in a new window -
Step 3
Apply for a job
Learn more about applying for a job. Opens in a new window -
Step 4
HR reviews your application
Learn more about checking your application status. Opens in a new window -
Step 5
Interview and hear back
Learn more about the application process. Opens in a new window
Stay Connected
Join our Early Career Talent Network so federal recruiters can find you proactively. You'll also receive open jobs and hiring event invitations directly to your email.
Once you join the network, follow the prompts to create and share your USAJOBS profile. Then, upload and share your resume.
Join the US Gov Early Career Talent Network