Application Guide

How to Apply for Intern - Congressional & Government Affairs (Summer 2026)

at Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS)

🏢 About Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS)

CSIS is a bipartisan, nonprofit think tank that provides strategic insights and policy solutions to global challenges. Its focus on actionable research and close ties to policymakers make it a unique place for those passionate about international affairs and government relations.

About This Role

This intern role supports CSIS's Congressional & Government Affairs team, assisting with outreach to Congress, monitoring legislation, and preparing briefings. It offers hands-on experience in the intersection of think tank research and policy advocacy.

💡 A Day in the Life

You might start by scanning congressional news and scheduling briefings, then draft a memo on a pending bill for the team. Afternoon could involve attending a virtual staff meeting or researching upcoming hearings, ending with updating a legislative tracker.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS) Is Looking For

  • Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a bachelor's or master's program in political science, international relations, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated interest in U.S. foreign policy and the legislative process through coursework, internships, or campus activities.
  • Strong research and writing skills, with ability to synthesize complex policy issues into concise memos.
  • Familiarity with Congress.gov, GovTrack, or similar legislative tracking tools.

📝 Tips for Applying to Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS)

1

Tailor your resume to highlight any experience with congressional correspondence, Hill meetings, or policy analysis.

2

In your cover letter, mention specific CSIS programs or reports you've read and how they relate to your interests.

3

Note your availability for the full summer (May-August) and ability to work remotely with reliable internet.

4

Include a writing sample (2-3 pages) that demonstrates policy analysis, such as a memo on a current legislative issue.

5

Apply early—CSIS often reviews applications on a rolling basis and fills positions before deadlines.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Express enthusiasm for CSIS's mission and its role in shaping U.S. foreign policy.", 'Highlight any direct experience with congressional affairs, such as past internships or advocacy work.', 'Demonstrate knowledge of a current foreign policy issue being debated in Congress and how CSIS research informs it.', 'Emphasize your ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks in a remote environment.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read CSIS's most recent reports on U.S. foreign policy priorities and identify key recommendations.
  • → Review the bios of the Congressional & Government Affairs team members to understand their backgrounds.
  • → Familiarize yourself with CSIS's bipartisan reputation and any recent congressional testimony by CSIS scholars.
  • → Check CSIS's social media and blog for current projects and events related to government affairs.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Why are you interested in CSIS specifically, and what do you know about our Congressional & Government Affairs team?
2 How would you track a piece of legislation from introduction to potential passage?
3 Describe a time you had to synthesize complex information for a non-expert audience.
4 What current foreign policy issue do you think will be most relevant to Congress in the next year?
5 How do you stay organized and communicate effectively in a remote work setting?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Sending a generic cover letter that doesn't reference CSIS's specific work or the role's focus on Congress.
  • Overlooking the remote nature—failing to mention your setup or experience with remote collaboration.
  • Neglecting to proofread for errors, especially when mentioning policy details or names of lawmakers.

📅 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:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS)!

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