In an ever-changing world, CFR’s work as a leading nonpartisan resource for information and ideas about foreign policy is more important than ever. At CFR, interns participate in one of the foremost paid internship programs in the foreign policy arena. They do work that matters alongside smart and dedicated staff in a diverse and inclusive environment. Interns are paid a competitive hourly wage while gaining valuable experience through exposure to leading foreign policy experts. They are also offered professional development training as a foundation for future work in the field of foreign policy and international affairs. Internship opportunities are offered through the Blavatnik Internship Program and Robina Franklin Williams Internship Program.

All who are selected to participate in CFR’s Blavatnik Internship Program and Robina Franklin Williams Internship Program receive training in the field of foreign policy and international affairs as well as skills training in writing, research, program planning, and much more.

Qualified candidates will have related experience that requires judgment, discretion, strong writing and editing skills, the ability to prioritize, and experience dealing with high-profile individuals.

CFR internships are paid, require a 14 to 18-hour commitment, and are filled on a rolling basis.

Please note that this internship will only be offered remotely. Interns will connect virtually for the duration of the internship.

All internships are paid positions (no exceptions can be made on this). As such, all interns must have the legal right to work in the United States to be eligible for consideration.

• Assisting CFR staff, including preparing relevant briefing materials
• Performing research as directed using approved CFR databases
• Writing, reviewing, and editing CFR content
• Supporting staff on administrative matters, including working cross-departmentally as needed
• Supporting meetings and events under the direct supervision of CFR staff
• For other specific duties for each internship, please reference the position descriptions available here.

• Undergraduate or graduate student with high academic credentials
• Interest in and knowledge of current foreign policy issues preferred
• Students should have completed the equivalent of four semesters of college coursework by the time they begin an internship
• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• For other specific requirements for each internship, including language requirements, please reference the position descriptions available here.

Pay Rate

$17.50 per hour

Founded in 1921, the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is a leading nonprofit membership organization, research center, and publisher, with headquarters in New York, an office in Washington, DC, and programs nationwide. It is dedicated to increasing America's understanding of the world and contributing ideas to U.S. foreign policy. CFR's 5,000+ members are leaders in international affairs and foreign policy. CFR also publishes Foreign Affairs, the preeminent magazine on global issues, and provides up-to-date information about the world and U.S. foreign policy on its award-winning website, CFR.org.

CFR’s Internship Program is made possible through the generous support of the Blavatnik Family Foundation, the Robina Foundation, CFR members, and the family and friends of Franklin Williams.

The Council on Foreign Relations is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Quality, diversity, and balance are the key objectives sought by the Council on Foreign Relations in the composition of its workforce.