CFR Internships offer undergraduate and graduate students an opportunity to gain paid professional experience in foreign policy, international relations, research, communications and related fields in the United States. The internships are offered by the Council on Foreign Relations, a leading American foreign-policy think tank.
Through its Blavatnik Internship Program, CFR provides students with opportunities to work alongside researchers, policy specialists and experienced professionals.
Interns may contribute to research projects, help prepare publications, support events and participate in communications or organizational activities.
The programme also provides professional-development workshops, career guidance and networking opportunities.
CFR offers internship opportunities during different academic terms, including spring, summer and fall. Positions are generally based in New York City or Washington, DC, although some vacancies may allow remote work.
All CFR internship opportunities are paid. Recent recruitment announcements listed an hourly rate of $18.50, although applicants should check the compensation stated in each new vacancy.
Importantly, applicants must have legal authorization to work in the United States. International students should review their work-authorization eligibility before applying.
Interested candidates can explore the official Council on Foreign Relations careers page.
CFR Internships Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) |
| Internship Programme | Blavatnik Internship Program |
| Country | United States |
| Internship Type | Paid professional internship |
| Main Fields | Foreign policy, international relations, research, communications and business operations |
| Locations | New York and Washington, DC |
| Remote Opportunities | Available for some positions |
| Academic Level | Undergraduate and graduate students |
| Minimum Academic Progress | Generally four semesters of college coursework |
| Compensation | $18.50 per hour in recent listings |
| Spring/Fall Workload | Approximately 14–18 hours weekly in recent listings |
| Summer Workload | Full-time opportunities being expanded |
| Duration | Depends on the academic term and position |
| Work Authorization | Required |
| Visa Sponsorship | Applicants must already have appropriate U.S. work authorization |
| Application Method | Online through CFR Careers |
What Are CFR Internships?
CFR Internship programs are professional training opportunities offered by the Council on Foreign Relations.
They allow students to gain practical experience in an organization that studies international affairs and U.S. foreign policy.
The internships cover several areas, including policy research, writing, communications, digital content and organizational support.
Participants may assist experts who analyze international developments and produce research for policymakers, academics, journalists and the public.
Interns also develop workplace skills through practical assignments and professional training.
The programme is particularly relevant to students interested in careers in international relations, political science, economics, public policy, journalism and related fields.
However, some positions may also suit students studying technology, business, design or other disciplines.
The exact responsibilities depend on the department and vacancy.
About the Council on Foreign Relations
The Council on Foreign Relations is an independent, nonpartisan membership organization, think tank and publisher based in the United States.
Founded in 1921, CFR works to improve understanding of international affairs and U.S. foreign policy.
Its headquarters are in New York City, and it also maintains an office in Washington, DC.
The organization conducts research, hosts discussions and publishes analysis on global issues.
Its work covers international security, economics, diplomacy, technology, climate, regional affairs and other subjects.
CFR also publishes Foreign Affairs, a prominent magazine covering international relations and global policy.
Students participating in its internship programme may gain exposure to different aspects of this work.
What Is the Blavatnik Internship Program?
The Blavatnik Internship Program is CFR’s principal paid internship initiative.
It was established in 2020 with support from the Blavatnik Family Foundation.
The programme aims to make professional experience in foreign policy more accessible by providing paid opportunities.
Interns receive practical assignments and opportunities to develop research, writing and professional skills.
They also participate in workshops and other activities designed to support career development.
According to CFR, the programme has supported more than 1,000 young professionals since its establishment.
In October 2026, CFR announced an additional $15 million commitment from the Blavatnik Family Foundation.
This investment is intended to strengthen the programme and support its expansion.
One important development is the introduction of expanded full-time summer internship opportunities.
Students should therefore check future recruitment announcements carefully, because summer positions may have different schedules from traditional part-time academic-term internships.
Are CFR Internships Paid?
Yes.
The Council on Foreign Relations provides paid internships.
Recent recruitment announcements specified an hourly wage of:
$18.50 per hour
This rate was listed for the Spring 2027 recruitment cycle.
However, future compensation may change.
Applicants should review the current vacancy announcement rather than assume that the same rate applies indefinitely.
Hourly Compensation
Interns are paid for their approved working hours.
The total amount earned depends on the hourly rate and the number of hours worked.
For example, at $18.50 per hour:
| Weekly Hours | Illustrative Weekly Gross Pay |
|---|---|
| 14 hours | $259 |
| 16 hours | $296 |
| 18 hours | $333 |
These calculations illustrate earnings at the previously advertised rate. They are not guaranteed payments for future cohorts.
Actual take-home pay may be lower after applicable taxes and deductions.
Professional Development
Interns can participate in training sessions covering professional skills.
These may include research, writing, communications and career planning.
Networking
The programme provides opportunities to interact with CFR staff and professionals working in international affairs.
Research Experience
Depending on the position, interns may support research and publications.
Career Guidance
Interns may receive advice about professional development and career opportunities.
Important: CFR Internship opportunities are paid employment opportunities, not fully funded scholarships. Applicants should not assume that airfare, accommodation, relocation or visa expenses are covered.
Where Are CFR Internships Located?
CFR offers opportunities in its principal U.S. locations.
New York City
CFR’s headquarters are in New York.
Interns may work with research teams, editorial departments, communications professionals and other staff.
Washington, DC
The Washington office provides opportunities connected with international affairs, policy discussions and organizational activities.
Remote Internships
Some positions may allow remote participation.
However, remote availability depends on the individual vacancy.
Applicants should not assume that a remote position can be performed from any country.
U.S. employment authorization, payroll and location restrictions may still apply.
Internship Fields and Departments
CFR offers internship programs across different professional areas.
The available departments change between recruitment cycles.
1. Foreign Policy Research
Research interns may assist CFR scholars studying international affairs.
Responsibilities can include gathering information, reviewing reports, preparing research summaries and supporting publications.
Students studying international relations, political science or related subjects may find these positions relevant.
2. Regional Studies
Some internships focus on specific regions of the world.
Examples may include Asia, Europe, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East.
Interns may help researchers monitor developments, review policy documents and prepare background materials.
Language skills may be useful for certain positions.
3. International Economics
Economics-related internships may involve research on trade, finance, international markets or economic policy.
Students studying economics, finance or international political economy may find suitable opportunities.
4. Global Communications
Communications interns may support public information activities.
Their work can involve writing, editing, research and communications planning.
5. Digital Content
Digital teams help present CFR’s research and analysis to online audiences.
Interns may assist with digital publishing, multimedia content, website activities or audience engagement.
6. Editorial and Publishing
CFR publishes articles, reports and other materials on international affairs.
Editorial interns may gain experience in proofreading, fact-checking, research and publication support.
7. Events and Programmes
CFR organizes discussions and events involving experts and policymakers.
Interns may assist with planning, research, scheduling and event coordination.
8. Data Visualization
Some positions involve presenting information through charts, graphics or interactive visualizations.
Applicants for these roles may need technical and design skills.
9. Technology and Digital Operations
Depending on recruitment needs, opportunities may involve technical support or digital projects.
10. Organizational and Administrative Support
Some interns help teams with project coordination, communications and operational activities.
These examples describe areas in which CFR has offered internship opportunities or related professional work. The exact vacancies for each term are determined by CFR.
Who Can Apply for CFR Internships?
The programme is primarily intended for undergraduate and graduate students.
Applicants must satisfy the general requirements and any additional conditions stated in the vacancy.
University Enrollment
Candidates generally need to be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate programme.
Academic Progress
Recent recruitment announcements required applicants to have completed the equivalent of four semesters of college coursework before starting the internship.
Advanced Placement coursework completed during high school did not count toward this requirement.
Relevant Academic Background
The preferred field of study depends on the department.
For example, a research internship may favor students studying international relations or economics.
A digital communications role may require different skills.
Writing and Communication
Strong writing, editing and verbal communication skills are important for many CFR positions.
Attention to Detail
Interns may work with research materials, publications and event information.
Accuracy and careful organization are valuable skills.
Interest in Foreign Policy
Knowledge of international affairs is particularly useful for research and policy-related positions.
Work Authorization
Applicants must have legal authorization to work in the United States.
Additional Requirements
Some positions may require language skills, technical abilities, writing samples or portfolios.
Applicants should review the specific job description before applying.
Can International Students Apply?
International students may be eligible if they have the legal right to work in the United States.
However, eligibility depends on the applicant’s immigration status and the requirements of the position.
CFR’s published internship recruitment information states that all interns must have U.S. work authorization.
Therefore, international students should not assume that receiving an internship offer automatically provides permission to work.
Students studying in the United States on F-1 visas may be able to use appropriate practical training authorization when the position qualifies.
For example, some students may be eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).
However, these arrangements are subject to immigration rules and university requirements.
Students should consult their designated school official before accepting employment.
Applicants outside the United States who do not have appropriate work authorization should not assume they can participate simply because a position is advertised as remote.
Does CFR Provide Visa Sponsorship?
CFR’s internship recruitment announcements require applicants to have the legal right to work in the United States.
They do not offer a general visa-sponsorship pathway for international internship applicants.
Therefore, students who need a new employer-sponsored visa should not assume that CFR will provide one.
Applicants should confirm the requirements of the specific vacancy and their individual work-authorization status.
What Is the Duration of CFR Internships?
CFR recruits interns for different academic terms.
These typically include:
Spring Internships
Spring internships generally take place during the first part of the calendar year.
Summer Internships
Summer opportunities take place during the university summer break.
CFR’s October programme expansion announcement identifies additional support for full-time summer internships.
Therefore, students should check the workload stated in future summer postings.
Fall Internships
Fall internships generally take place during the later part of the academic year.
The exact start dates, duration and weekly hours are specified in individual recruitment announcements.
How Many Hours Do Interns Work?
Recent Spring 2027 recruitment information specified approximately 14–18 hours per week.
However, the October 2026 expansion announcement confirms that CFR is developing full-time opportunities for its summer cohort.
As a result, students should not assume that every internship follows the same part-time schedule.
Applicants should review the required hours for their selected position.
CFR Internships Application Deadlines
CFR does not use one universal deadline for all internship programs.
Applications open separately for different terms.
Spring 2027
The published deadline was October 11, 2026.
That recruitment period has closed.
Summer 2027
The application opening and deadline should be confirmed through CFR’s official recruitment announcements.
CFR has announced expanded full-time summer opportunities, but applicants should not treat an anticipated opening date as a confirmed deadline.
Fall 2027
The application schedule has not yet been confirmed.
Students should monitor the official careers page for future openings.
Official recruitment page: CFR Career Opportunities
How to Apply for CFR Internships
Applications are submitted through CFR’s official recruitment system.
Step 1: Visit the Official Careers Website
Open the Council on Foreign Relations Careers page.
Step 2: Find Internship Opportunities
Look for vacancies listed under the Blavatnik Internship Program or other internship categories.
Step 3: Check the Application Status
Confirm that the position is currently accepting applications.
Step 4: Review the Eligibility Criteria
Read the academic, skill and work-authorization requirements.
Step 5: Identify Suitable Departments
Choose positions that match your education, interests and experience.
Step 6: Prepare Your Resume
Include relevant academic achievements, research experience, employment, volunteering and technical skills.
Step 7: Prepare a Cover Letter
Explain why you want to work at CFR and how your background relates to the internship.
Step 8: Prepare Additional Materials
Some positions may request portfolios or examples of previous work.
For example, recent data visualization recruitment instructions requested a portfolio or links to relevant projects.
Step 9: Complete the Online Application
Enter your information accurately.
Step 10: Select Preferred Teams
The Spring 2027 recruitment process asked applicants to identify up to five teams of interest.
Future application procedures may differ.
Step 11: Submit Before the Deadline
Check all information and upload the required documents.
Step 12: Monitor Your Email
CFR may contact shortlisted candidates about interviews or additional assessments.
Documents Required
Recent CFR internship recruitment instructions identified a resume and general cover letter as core application materials.
Additional documents depend on the role.
Resume
Include your education, academic projects, work experience and relevant skills.
Cover Letter
Describe your interest in the organization and explain how your skills match the positions you want.
Portfolio
Some creative, technical or data visualization positions may request examples of previous work.
Academic Information
Be prepared to provide details about your university and degree programme.
Work Authorization Information
Applicants must satisfy U.S. employment eligibility requirements.
Additional Supporting Materials
Individual vacancies may request further information.
Applicants should follow the instructions in the current job announcement.
What Skills Does CFR Look For?
The required skills depend on the department, but several abilities are useful across different roles.
Research Skills
Interns may need to gather information, review reports and organize findings.
Writing Skills
Clear writing is valuable for research, communications and editorial positions.
Analytical Thinking
Candidates should be able to evaluate information and explain important findings.
Communication
Professional communication is essential when working with researchers, colleagues and external contacts.
Organization
Interns may need to manage several tasks and meet deadlines.
Attention to Detail
Accuracy is particularly important in policy research and publications.
Teamwork
Many assignments require collaboration with staff and other interns.
Knowledge of International Affairs
Understanding major global developments can help applicants contribute effectively.
Professional Development Opportunities
The Blavatnik Internship Program provides more than regular workplace assignments.
Participants may also take part in professional-development activities.
Research and Writing Workshops
Interns can develop skills relevant to policy analysis and professional communication.
Career Guidance
The programme provides opportunities to learn about career paths in foreign policy and related fields.
Interaction With Experts
Participants may interact with experienced researchers and practitioners.
Networking
Interns can develop relationships with professionals and other students.
Practical Learning
Assignments provide opportunities to apply academic knowledge in a professional setting.
The exact activities may vary between cohorts.
How Competitive Are CFR Internships?
The programme is highly competitive.
In October 2026, CFR reported that its internship programme attracts an average of approximately 58,000 applicants annually for around 140 internship opportunities.
These figures reflect CFR’s reported programme experience and do not guarantee the number of vacancies available in future recruitment cycles.
Students should prepare strong applications and select positions that match their qualifications.
Tips for a Strong CFR Internship Application
Understand CFR’s Work
Read the organization’s research and publications.
Learn about the issues covered by the department you want to join.
Match Your Experience to the Role
Highlight academic projects, research, employment or volunteering relevant to the vacancy.
Demonstrate Writing Ability
Clear and accurate writing is especially important for policy and communications positions.
Show Interest in International Affairs
Explain which global issues interest you and why.
Use Specific Examples
Describe your responsibilities and achievements rather than relying on general statements.
Prepare a Focused Cover Letter
Connect your background with CFR’s work and the internship teams you select.
Check Work Authorization Early
International students should confirm their employment eligibility before applying.
Apply on Time
Each recruitment cycle has its own deadline.
Prepare for Interviews
Be ready to discuss your academic interests, experience and understanding of current international issues.
Benefits of Completing a CFR Internship
Paid Professional Experience
Interns receive an hourly wage.
Foreign Policy Exposure
Participants gain experience in an organization focused on international affairs.
Research and Communication Skills
Interns can develop practical abilities relevant to future professional work.
Professional Networking
The programme provides opportunities to interact with CFR staff and other professionals.
Career Development
Workshops and guidance help students prepare for future opportunities.
Practical Experience
Interns contribute to real organizational activities.
Resume Development
Relevant professional experience can strengthen future applications.
However, completing an internship does not guarantee a permanent position at CFR.
CFR Internships vs OECD Internship Programme
Students interested in international affairs may also consider the OECD Internship Programme.
| Feature | CFR Internships | OECD Internship Programme |
|---|---|---|
| Organization | Council on Foreign Relations | Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development |
| Main Focus | Foreign policy and international affairs | Public policy, economics and international cooperation |
| Main Country | United States | Primarily France |
| Participants | Eligible undergraduate and graduate students | Eligible enrolled students under OECD rules |
| Compensation | Paid hourly wage | Financial contribution under programme rules |
| Work Authorization | U.S. work authorization required | Relevant host-country eligibility conditions apply |
| Application Process | CFR Careers | OECD Careers |
Both programmes can provide valuable experience, but they have different eligibility conditions and professional environments.
Applicants should compare the official requirements before applying.
Other International Internships to Explore
Students interested in international policy can explore the OECD Internship Programme, which offers experience in public policy, economics and international cooperation.
Another option is the United Nations Internship Program, which provides opportunities across different areas of international affairs.
Students interested in communications, technology or business may also explore the Microsoft Summer Internship.
Similarly, students interested in international affairs, public policy and research can also explore the Heinrich Böll Foundation Internship in Washington, DC.
These programmes have different funding arrangements, application requirements and recruitment schedules.
Applicants should review the official details before choosing an opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are CFR Internship Opportunities?
They are paid professional internships offered by the Council on Foreign Relations.
What is the Blavatnik Internship Program?
It is CFR’s principal paid internship initiative, offering professional experience and career-development activities.
Are CFR Internship Opportunities paid?
Yes.
How much do CFR interns earn?
Recent recruitment announcements listed $18.50 per hour. Future rates may change.
Where are CFR Internship Opportunities located?
Primarily New York City and Washington, DC.
Are remote internships available?
Some positions may offer remote arrangements.
Can undergraduate students apply?
Yes, if they meet the academic progress and other requirements.
Can graduate students apply?
Yes.
Can first-year university students apply?
Recent recruitment announcements generally required four completed semesters of college coursework.
Can international students apply?
Yes, if they meet the applicable U.S. work-authorization requirements.
Does CFR sponsor internship visas?
Applicants must already have the legal right to work in the United States. They should not assume employer visa sponsorship is available.
Can students use CPT?
Eligible F-1 students may be able to use authorized CPT if the internship meets applicable academic and immigration requirements.
What fields are available?
Opportunities may include research, foreign policy, communications, digital content, economics and other areas.
Is foreign-policy experience required?
Relevant knowledge is useful, but requirements depend on the specific role.
Are CFR Internships competitive?
Yes. CFR reports substantial demand for its internship opportunities.
Does CFR offer summer internship Opportunities?
Yes.
Are summer internships full-time?
CFR announced an expansion supporting full-time summer internship opportunities in October 2026. Applicants should check each position’s schedule.
When is the next application deadline?
Future deadlines must be confirmed through official recruitment announcements.
Is a cover letter required?
Recent recruitment instructions required a general cover letter.
Is a resume required?
Yes, according to recent recruitment instructions.
Is there an application fee?
CFR’s official internship recruitment materials do not identify an application fee.
Does the internship cover accommodation?
Applicants should not assume housing is provided unless a specific offer states otherwise.
Does CFR guarantee permanent employment?
No.
Where can students apply?
Through the official CFR careers website.
Final Thoughts
CFR Internships provide undergraduate and graduate students with opportunities to gain paid professional experience in foreign policy, international relations, research and communications.
Through the Blavatnik Internship Program, participants can work with experienced professionals, contribute to meaningful projects and develop valuable workplace skills.
Recent internship positions offered an hourly wage of $18.50, although compensation may change in future recruitment cycles.
CFR also announced a significant expansion of the programme in October 2026, including additional support for full-time summer internship Opportunities.
The Spring 2027 application period has closed. However, students can monitor CFR’s official careers website for upcoming summer and fall opportunities.
International applicants should carefully review work-authorization requirements before applying.
For students interested in diplomacy, global policy, international economics or research, the programme can provide useful professional experience.
Official CFR Careers: Council on Foreign Relations Career Opportunities
Official Internship Programme: Blavatnik Internship Program
Last verified: October 23, 2026
Pathfinderly is an independent educational opportunities website and is not affiliated with the Council on Foreign Relations. Internship positions, compensation, deadlines, work arrangements and eligibility requirements may change. Always review the current official vacancy before applying.