Application Guide
How to Apply for Intern â Middle East Program (Spring 2026)
at Center For Strategic And International Studies
🏢 About Center For Strategic And International Studies
The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a premier bipartisan think tank that provides strategic insights and policy solutions on global issues. What makes CSIS unique is its direct influence on policymakers through rigorous, nonpartisan analysis and its reputation as a trusted voice in Washington, D.C. Someone might want to work there to gain firsthand experience in shaping foreign policy and to network with leading experts in international affairs.
About This Role
This internship involves conducting research on Middle Eastern political and security trends, assisting in creating program materials like policy briefs or event summaries, and providing administrative support to ensure smooth program operations. It's impactful because you'll contribute directly to a program that informs U.S. policy toward a critical region, helping promote stability and peace through evidence-based analysis.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might start with reviewing news on Middle Eastern developments to support ongoing research, followed by drafting sections of a program report or policy brief. In the afternoon, you could assist with logistics for an upcoming team event or meeting, and end by collaborating with colleagues to analyze data for a presentation, all while engaging with a dynamic team focused on impactful policy work.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Center For Strategic And International Studies Is Looking For
- A current undergraduate or graduate student with demonstrable research experience, such as through academic papers, thesis work, or prior internships focused on political science or international relations.
- Someone who can articulate complex Middle Eastern issues clearly in writing, as shown through writing samples like op-eds, reports, or detailed essays on regional politics.
- A detail-oriented individual proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Suite, with experience using these tools for data analysis, presentation creation, or collaborative project management.
- A candidate with basic knowledge of Middle Eastern geopolitics, possibly through coursework, language study (like Arabic), or personal research, and who thrives both independently on tasks and collaboratively in a team setting.
📝 Tips for Applying to Center For Strategic And International Studies
Tailor your resume to highlight specific research projects or coursework related to the Middle East, using metrics like 'analyzed 10+ policy documents on regional conflicts' or 'co-authored a report on economic trends in the Gulf.'
Include a writing sample that demonstrates analytical skills on a Middle Eastern topic, such as a brief analysis of a current event in the region, to showcase your ability to meet the role's research and communication demands.
Mention any experience with program management tools or administrative tasks, even from student organizations, to align with the support responsibilities listed in the job description.
Research CSIS's Middle East Program publications and recent events, and reference one in your application to show genuine interest and understanding of their work.
If you have language skills in Arabic or another regional language, explicitly state your proficiency level and provide examples of how you've used it in academic or professional contexts.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Explain your motivation for working specifically on Middle East issues at CSIS, linking it to your academic background or personal interests in regional stability.', 'Provide a concise example of a research project or analysis you conducted that relates to the Middle East, highlighting your analytical and writing skills.', 'Describe how your ability to work independently and collaboratively aligns with supporting a fast-paced team, perhaps referencing a past team project or internship experience.', "Express your enthusiasm for contributing to CSIS's mission of nonpartisan policy impact, and mention one specific Middle East Program initiative or report that inspires you."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review recent publications from the CSIS Middle East Program, such as reports or commentaries, to understand their focus areas like security, economics, or diplomacy in the region.
- → Explore CSIS's overall mission and values, noting their bipartisan approach and how it influences their research and policy recommendations.
- → Look into the backgrounds of Middle East Program staff or senior fellows to identify potential mentors or align your interests with their expertise.
- → Check CSIS's event archives for recent Middle East-related panels or discussions, to get a sense of current topics and key stakeholders they engage with.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic application without mentioning the Middle East or CSIS specifically, which shows lack of interest in the role's regional focus.
- Overstating language proficiency or regional knowledge without concrete examples, as this could be quickly uncovered in an interview or task.
- Focusing solely on research ambitions while neglecting the administrative and team support aspects of the role, which are key responsibilities.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Center For Strategic And International Studies!