The Pathways Program offers federal internship and employment opportunities for current students, recent graduates and those with an advanced degree. There are three different paths available:
Eligibility
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The Internship Program is for current students. If you’re a current student in high school, college, trade school or other qualifying educational institution, you may be eligible. This program offers paid opportunities to work in federal agencies and explore federal careers while completing your education.
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The recent graduate program is for those who have graduated, within the past two years, from a qualifying educational institution or certificate program. The recent graduate program offers career development with training and mentorship.
You must apply within two years of getting your degree or certificate (veterans have up to six years to apply due to their military service obligation).
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This program is for recent graduates with an advanced degree—either a professional or graduate degree such as a master’s, Ph.D. or J.D. You may be eligible if you:
- Have completed an advanced degree from a qualifying educational institution or program within the past two years.
- Are a current graduate student and will complete all of your degree requirements (including dissertations) by the PMF application deadline.
Learn more about the Presidential Management Fellows program .
Other student programs and opportunities
There are several other opportunities available to students, including:
- Department of State Student Internship program
- Virtual Student Foreign Service (VSFS)
- Overseas Student Summer Hire program
- Summer jobs (for example, a lifeguard)
How do I know a job is open to Students & recent graduates?
In the job announcement look for the This job is open to section. When a job is open to Students & recent graduates you’ll see the Students icon: . There may be other groups listed that can also apply.
You can also select the Students & recent graduates filter, or the summer or seasonal appointment type filter in search. Your results will display all jobs open to Students and recent graduates.
Documents you may need
Upload and submit through USAJOBS
You can upload and save documents to your USAJOBS account. Once uploaded, you can submit these forms with your job application as needed. Sign into your USAJOBS account or learn how to upload documents.
Contact information
Please contact pathways@opm.gov with any issues or questions related to the Pathways Programs for students and recent graduates.