Application Guide

How to Apply for ORF Internship Programme

at Observer Research Foundation (ORF)

🏢 About Observer Research Foundation (ORF)

Observer Research Foundation (ORF) is India's premier non-partisan think tank, known for its influential policy research and analysis on India's strategic, economic, and developmental challenges. Working at ORF offers direct exposure to India's policy-making ecosystem and the opportunity to contribute to shaping national and global discourse from a uniquely Indian perspective.

About This Role

This ORF Internship involves conducting independent research under mentorship to produce a publishable article (800-1500 words) while supporting specific centers or initiatives. The role is impactful because it allows interns to contribute directly to ORF's research output and gain hands-on experience in policy analysis within India's leading think tank environment.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day involves conducting research for your independent article using ORF's resources, attending internal briefings or discussions on current policy issues, collaborating with assigned mentors on research methodology, and supporting your designated centre with tasks like literature reviews or data analysis. You'll work alongside ORF researchers in a dynamic office environment focused on India's policy challenges.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

Practice questions for this role

🎯 Who Observer Research Foundation (ORF) Is Looking For

  • A student or young scholar with demonstrated research and writing ability, evidenced by a strong 800-word writing sample
  • Someone who can clearly articulate their interest in at least three specific ORF programmes/initiatives (e.g., Centre for New Economic Diplomacy, Strategic Studies Programme, Cyberspace Initiative)
  • An individual with flexibility to work full-time for three months and clear about their preferred ORF office location (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, or Chennai)
  • A candidate from a diverse academic background who can bring fresh perspectives to policy research

📝 Tips for Applying to Observer Research Foundation (ORF)

1

Tailor your research writing sample specifically to ORF's focus areas - choose a topic relevant to India's policy landscape rather than generic academic writing

2

Be specific about your three preferred ORF programmes/initiatives - demonstrate you've researched their current projects and explain why they align with your interests

3

Clearly state your intended start date and preferred office location - ORF needs this logistical information upfront

4

Highlight any previous experience with policy research, think tanks, or writing for public audiences rather than just academic credentials

5

If you have a specific research topic in mind for your independent article, briefly mention it to show initiative and focus

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your specific interest in ORF's non-partisan approach to policy research and how it aligns with your academic/professional goals", "Which three ORF programmes/initiatives interest you most and why - show you've done your homework", 'Your research capabilities and how your background prepares you to produce an 800-1500 word independent article', 'Your availability for the three-month full-time commitment and preferred office location']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Study ORF's recent publications and reports to understand their research style and priority areas
  • → Research the specific centres/programmes you list as interests - know their current projects and key researchers
  • → Understand ORF's position as a non-partisan think tank and how this differs from academic or government research
  • → Review ORF's past intern publications to see the type of work previous interns have produced

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Discussion of your research writing sample and how you approach policy-oriented writing
2 Your understanding of ORF's specific programmes and why you chose your three areas of interest
3 How you would develop your independent research article topic within ORF's focus areas
4 Your familiarity with current Indian policy debates relevant to ORF's work
5 Your ability to work in a think tank environment and contribute to team projects while pursuing independent research
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic academic paper as your writing sample instead of policy-oriented research writing
  • Listing ORF programmes without demonstrating specific knowledge of their current work
  • Being vague about availability or office location preference - ORF explicitly requires this information
  • Focusing only on academic achievements without showing how you'd contribute to ORF's practical policy work

📅 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 Observer Research Foundation (ORF)!

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