Gain Hands-On Experience at One of the World’s Leading Museums
The National Air and Space Museum offers paid internship opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students interested in gaining real-world experience in museums, research, education, communications, science, and public service. Interns work alongside expert mentors in a dynamic, collaborative environment while contributing to meaningful projects connected to aviation, space exploration, and STEM education.
Located in Washington, DC and Chantilly, Virginia, the Museum provides interns with access to world-class collections, cutting-edge research, and nationally recognized professionals.
Summer Internship Program
The Museum’s structured 10-week Summer Internship Program offers full-time, paid positions designed to introduce students to museum careers or deepen existing experience.
Program Details
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Duration: 10 weeks
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Schedule: Full-time
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Compensation: $8,000 stipend
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Location: Onsite at Museum locations
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Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
Internship Areas Include
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Aeronautics and Space History
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Planetary and Earth Sciences
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Archives and Research Writing
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Communications, Marketing, and Social Media
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Education and Public Programs
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Exhibits and 3D Design
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Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Academic Year Internships
Select internships are offered during the academic year to support ongoing museum projects. These positions may be full-time or part-time and are designed to accommodate students’ academic schedules. Opportunities are posted as they become available.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
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Be high school graduates
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Be currently enrolled in or recently graduated from an accredited undergraduate or graduate degree program
How to Apply
All applications are submitted through the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment System (SOLAA).
Required Materials
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Resume
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Statement of Purpose (500–1,000 words)
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Unofficial transcript
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Two letters of recommendation
Applicants may select up to three internship projects during the application process.
Why Apply?
Interns at the National Air and Space Museum gain:
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Professional mentorship
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Hands-on project experience
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Exposure to museum, research, and STEM careers
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Opportunities to work with iconic artifacts and expert staff
Admission to the Museum is always free, and internships are supported by generous donors committed to student learning and access.
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